From 1946- 1994, Nena Saguil’s journey as an artist was a relentless pursuit of vocation and creating an artistic identity that was wholly hers despite having to navigate the once male-dominated realm of the arts. But that never stopped Saguil, who eventually chose to live in Paris as an expat –setting up specifically on Saint Germain des Prés where she became part of one of the most elite art luminaries of that generation, such as Waldermar George, Gerard Dufaud, and Matisse.Art Fair Philippines
To celebrate her legacy, the ART HOUSE and the Nena Saguil estate collaborated for an exhibition dedicated to the late artist’s impact on Filipino modern art. saliNlahi: Connecting the Dots highlights different stages of Saguil’s evolution from her early years as a student of the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts up to her later years.
Ben Saguil, brother of the late artist and representative of the family elaborates, “There were several phases in her artistic journey starting from the early years. In the mid 40s and 50s, she created figurative works influenced by her professors in the University of the Philippines. Nena made a few off-tangent works that were shaped by Picasso and Matisse. The latter part of the 50s was an experimental and exploratory phase, which produced many of her abstract works. She then began to develop her style using spheres, circles, space and pointillism until the 70s.”
ART HOUSE Founder Carlo Pineda shares, “The show is a result of our deeply rooted relationship with the Saguil estate. It was sparked earlier this year with our February show, LAKBAY: Voyages Into The Absolute.” Informed by shared values and goals, the creative platform endeavors to play an integral part in creating programs that help preserve and honor the legacy of Nena Saguil. “
Ultimately, our goal is to amplify the significant contributions and impact of Nena Saguil on Filipino creativity and identity. For us, Nena Saguil is a master–a pioneering Filipino female artist who pursued her craft independently while staying rooted in her identity.”
saliNlahi will feature rare or never-before-seen artworks by Nena Saguil. A quadriptych from the estate will be on showcase alongside other works from earlier eras. Pieces from both seasoned and new generation art collectors will also make up the curation. Carlo explains, “We wanted to highlight Nena’s Saguil’s resonance across generations. In a way, this show will also serve as a platform for bringing together collectors and enthusiasts of Nena Saguil works. We are also looking to connect with the next generation, which is why we are also developing a merchandise collection that features works by Nena Saguil.”
In her curatorial notes, Marika Constantino ponders: “Five decades of her practice are duly represented to highlight her broad modes of exploration; be it through the media she used, the techniques she employed, or the subject matter she touched on. Apart from the blue celestial terrains she is identified with, SALINLAHI: Connecting the Dots also showcases stylistically unique pieces in various colors and figurations.
Indeed, this is a rare opportunity for all these art works to be collectively presented. In its entirety, they attest to the enduring influence, generational resonance, and continued relevance of her art—valued not only for their formal brilliance but also for the depth of imagination they embody.” saliNlahi: Connecting the Dots will also take place during Nena Saguil’s birth month in September.
This event also underscores the shared vision between ART HOUSE and its official venue partner, Discovery Primea. David Pardo Ayala, the property’s General Manager shares: “At Discovery Primea, we are deeply pleased to support Art House in championing Philippine art and Filipino artists. As a proudly Filipino hospitality brand, it is close to our heart to celebrate the creativity and talent that reflect Filipino culture and identity.”
saliNlahi: Connecting the Dots happens from September 26 to 28 at the Discovery Primea Hotel. For more information, follow ART HOUSE on Instagram @thearthouse.
