On storm-stirring wing flaps
IN 1963, academician Edward Lorenz published a paper, titled Deterministic Nonperiod Flow. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology meteorology professor posited that “slightly differing initial states can evolve into considerably different states” even with the most minute modifications. His theory—which would be known in popular media as “the butterfly effect”—relates to how the miniscule creature flapping its wings in Brazil could set off a tornado in Texas.
Conversely, he argued that “if the flap of a butterfly’s wings can be instrumental in generating a tornado, it can equally well be instrumental in preventing a tornado.”
While butterflies are often associated with the romanticized idea of evolution, its role in setting off a massive chain of events is part of the concepts explored in the ongoing group exhibition by Galerie Anna at SM Art Center in SM Megamall. Titled Le Papillon, French for “The Butterfly,” the massive showcase featuring 28 artists opened on December 10 and will be on view until tomorrow, December 21.
The exhibition namesake gently flutters its way across every featured artwork, in image or idea, depicted through various media.
There are pieces that show a butterfly interacting with a human subject frozen in deep thought, while others depict a fusion between the two characters in an act of willful submission. Does it signify one’s impending metamorphosis into a greater form, or could it be nothing more than stagnant transformation?
With butterflies involved, colors bloom in Le Papillon in a garden of soft wings. There is also an overwhelming sense of tenderness, as the show’s central creature is often accompanied by an equally tender female subject; each one appearing ever clement and forbearing. Despite the lulling appeal of the featured pieces, however, one should be reminded of the core of Lorenz’s butterfly effect: There is more to everything than meets the eye, which is why the mind should be as open as wings spread out.
Featured in Le Papillon are the works of Amiel Cagayat, Bryan Teves, Bullet Dematera, Charmaigne Mendoza, Domeng Cruz, Eliseo Perreras, Eric Perreras, Ferd Failano, Jaime Gubaton and James Imperial. Part of the exhibition as well are Jaspher Penuliar, Joyce Ignacio, Katrina Pallon, Kenneth Garcia, Lei Manto, Marloun Mago, Marko Bello, Noli Manalang, Obet Tiaño, Raine Sarmiento, Ran Bolivar, Renato Balute, RJ Balute, Rum Corvera, Win Castle and Von Caro.
More information about the exhibit and Galerie Anna is available on Facebook at www.facebook.com/galerieanna and Instagram at www.instagram.com/thegalerieanna.