: "Fluttering Opulence" by William Alvarez

“Fluttering Opulence” on view at The Galerie Joaquin Shop starting October 1, 2022

Text by Noy Bedaña

It is in a state of sincere ideation that one can fully grasp the beauty and elegance that is the works of William Alvarez for his latest exhibition, “Fluttering Opulence.”

Alvarez positions himself as a master of appropriating the coexistence of nature and beauty. He takes on this role effectively, and in doing so, claims a unique perspective of his portrayal of opulence. His familiar subjects of peacocks atop sprawling branches capture ­­– the spontaneity of nature – freezing a moment where everything is enigmatically captivating. Through highly charged depictions of flamboyance, manifested through its carefully curated tableau, the artist’s works are affirmations of his own enchantments.

With images highlighting tropes of elegance and majesty, the sophisticated works of Alvarez for this exhibit focuses on peacocks strutting their tail feathers, resplendently arrayed in magnificence, noticeably backdropped against various colors of metal leaf and paint. His particular choice of such elements emanate a sense of life and immaculacy; conjuring a powerful yet subtle utterances of glamour, poise and luxury, beckoning to be heard. The artworks confront and reveal a sense of inherent sanctity to the audience, and as we listen and gaze to it in silence, one might rediscover its own grace, humility and innate vulnerabilities.

William Alvarez Jr.’s oeuvre is inspired by his native Morong and its people and environment. Alvarez won the grand prize for the Non-Representational Category of the 2017 GSIS National Art Competition and was also awarded the LIKAS Morong Gawad Kabataan Award in the same year. He was also shortlisted for the Philippine Art Awards 2018 (Regional Competition in Luzon Category); Semi-finalist, MADE (Metrobank Art and Design Excellence) 2018; Awardee, 116th Araw ng Lalawigan ng Rizal 2017; Honorable Mention, National GSIS Art Competition 2010; and a Finalist at the Exhibition Center for Contemporary Art (ECCA) 2010. William Alvarez Jr. is an active member of the community-based artist group MUSTRA (Morong Young Artists).

“Fluttering Opulence” by William Alvarez will be on view at the Galerie Joaquin Shop Website starting October 1 – 15, 2022.

www.galeriejoaquin.shop