Kaleidoscope World
Raul Isidro represents the simple shapes and colors of the earth
Raul Isidro represents the simple shapes and colors of the earth
To see the world through the kaleidoscope eyes of prominent abstractionist Raul
Isidro is to see a world vibrant and pulsating with life. Under his skillful and seasoned brush, time and space collapse, the canvas becomes a doorway into the past introducing viewers to the artist’s filtered recollection of lazy summers in his home town of Samar. These memories served as the inspiration for his latest exhibit, “Formative Reflections
(Meditations on Summer)” currently on display at Gallery Joaquin. The collection is a throwback to his early experiences growing up surrounded by the “simple shapes and colors of the earth.” “Nature is part of the influences of my compositions, which I use as my basis for abstraction,” he says. These images continuously bombard Isidro’s mind, giving him the energy to get up even in the middle of the night to paint.
Isidro continues to be inspired by landscapes, sharing once that such rural sceneries always impose a strong force that compels him to create something new. He takes the images of undulating hills, jagged edges of rocks, plush mountains, pristine beaches, soothing seascapes, and plays with their shapes, colors, and textures. He chooses to honor nature not by merely showcasing its beauty through a realistic portrayal, but by reigniting the feeling of wonder it evokes. The longevity of Isidro’s work goes beyond its technical and aesthetic merit, though decades of rigid practice has unquestionably refined his oeuvre. Essentially, the lasting charm and allure of an authentic Isidro painting is its earnest representation of the intangible aspects of engaging with nature. By cultivating mood through different hues, the artist celebrates the ever-evolving landscape of the various places he encountered from his memories of different seasons. In his ability to break down nature and process it through color and form, he is able to emulate an experience through his works, which serve as a welcome oasis of peace at a time people are continuously assaulted by images that impose meaning and order.
“There are no limits to creativity,” says Isidro, with his inimitable passion and exuberance. Spontaneity is a vital driving force for the notable and distinguished artist who is adamant about breaking free from any sort of ritual. Instead, he allows colors from his visual repertoire to trickle down his arm and be unleashed as deliberate and cohesive artworks.
“I taught my students that abstract composition is a very important facet in a painting,” says Isidro. “I cannot stand looking at a blank canvas or a confused and jumbled artwork.”
Isidro’s engagement with art is not only confined to creating it. He also plays an active role in the local art scene, spending his free moments interacting with contemporaries and shaping the next generation of artists as a teacher and mentor, advocating for art appreciation at the grassroots. His love for the local art scene led to another milestone—the opening of
his new gallery. “I have always dreamed of putting up a gallery of my artworks,” Isidro says, elaborating on the process that allowed his dream to become a reality.” The stunning studio and gallery, located in 441 Lake Bulusan Street, Marian Lakeview Park, Paranaque City houses the artist’s old and new artworks, while serving as a hub for camaraderie with like creative minds.
Though a master in his own right, Isidro takes on the humble role of a student within his own practice, with a rigorous work ethic that pushes him to work six to 10 hours a day. “I work after breakfast till evening, everyday,” he says. “There is no retirement in art.” “Formative Reflections (Meditations on Summer)” will be on view until May 15 with the Artist Reception scheduled for Tuesday, April 30 at 6 p.m. The gallery is located on the 3rd level of The Podium, ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City.
' Nature is part of the influences of my compositions, which I use as my basis for abstraction.’