MANILA, Philippines - Artist Dominic Rubio tackles the history of that once-glorious avenue, Escolta, in a new series of paintings done is partnership with the International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMS) and the Escolta Commercial Association.
These new works show the grandeur of old Escolta in an exhibition titled “Balik Maynila: Binondo, Escolta, & Old Manila,” which opens today at the SM Art Center, fourth floor, SM Megamall A, Mandaluyong City.
Escolta, bordering on Manila’s Sta. Cruz and Binondo district, was once the center of what was the most cosmopolitan city in Asia. Testament to its stature is the presence of beautiful buildings along the banks of the Pasig. These grand structures served as an announcement to the world of Manila’s place as the premier city of Asia. Sadly, the ravages of war and the decline of the old City of Manila as the center of the country — indeed as the prestige city of Asia — have not been kind to Escolta, and in the intervening post-war years its stature gave way as former tenants moved to the high-rises of Makati and Ortigas. Nevertheless, the brilliant edifices remained — stark reminders of Manila’s time in the sun.
The architectural scope of these buildings shows the various styles that peppered early 20th century Manila. Ranging from Neo-Classical to Art Deco, each building tells a story of a bygone era — a nostalgic memory that speaks to our sense of heritage. It’s unsurprising then that this is exactly the kind of fodder that premier artist Dominic Rubio revels in. Rubio is a poet of nostalgia, carving a celebrated career in the rendering of works that depict what is idyllic of colonial Manila.
“Balik Maynila” is on view until Nov. 20.
For information, call Galerie Joaquin at 723-9418, e-mail info@galeriejoaquin.com, or visit www.galeriejoaquin.com. Galerie Joaquin is at 371 P. Guevarra Street corner Montessori Lane in San Juan City, Metro Manila.