Nixxio and Ovvian's homage to Eduardo Castrillo at Galerie Joaquin
Nixxio and Ovvian Castrillo, sculptors and children of the late Eduardo Castrillo, have chosen to anchor their practices to that of their father. More than a passing on of techniques, there is also a physical aspect to this anchor, as they also use the same Cavite studio that their late father used.
The two sculptors hold a joint exhibition at Galerie Joaquin, which opens on Sept. 14 at 6 p. m., and runs until Sept. 30. Titled “Anchor: An Homage to Eduardo Castrillo,” the exhibition honors the late sculptor through the unique individual sculptural practices of his children.
Nixxio and Ovvian are carving out a path as artists in their own right — and their success is perhaps the ultimate honor they can bestow on their father.
While the influence of Eduardo Castrillo in Ovvian’s works cannot be denied, there is also stark differences in form. “I think my work is slightly more feminine,” she explains. “I’m fonder of lines that close, that are tied together. The shape, the form, may not be organic, but my finish is. Some people even mistake it for wood. It’s almost a reverse of what my father would do, since his forms were organic but his finishes were inorganic. But we’re evolving into it, and I’m still experimenting.”
Nixxio took a different path, learn- ing directly as the manager of his father ’ s studio. Yet Nixxio is also very philosophical with how his works diverge from his father’s.
“Dad’ s artworks are somewhat angular,” he says. “In my case, I like making things linear, with cubes and rectangular shapes. Growing up, I always imagined myself as a shadow when helping my dad. And what appealed to me the most were the angles his works would create. That has influenced my own art. Of course, my studies in architecture also has made an impact.” This is most apparent in how his artwork interacts with the environment, creates canyons and valleys of shadows between the lines.
“The new works here are symbolic, like a chrysalis,” he adds. “I sort of feel like I’m breaking out of my own chrysalis.” True enough, it is by honoring their father’s legacy that Nixxio and Ovvian have discovered their own potential as artists.
Galerie Joaquin is at 371 P. Guevarra Street, corner Montessori Lane, Addition Hills, San Juan. For information, call 7239418 or email at info@galeriejoaquin.com.