Pixie Dust at Galerie Anna

 

Pixie Dust: A reminder that magic lies within ourselves

The magic of fairy tales has always captivated the human imagination. The mere idea of fairy tales recalls the idea that one’s imagination is the limit and that with just a sprinkle of pixie dust, one’s dreams can come true. As Tinker Bell aptly puts it, “Fairy tales can come true. You gotta make them happen, it all depends on you. This kind of magic only happens once upon a time, and it all starts with a little bit of pixie dust.”

This timeless premise acts as a springboard of concepts explored by four talented artists: KenToSan, Anika Loquite, Irene Evangelista, and Randolf Novis. Their works in response to this concept come together in a group show titled "Pixie Dust". In this exhibit, we see artists reframe elements of childhood fantasy under a contemporary lens. This artistic style infuses classic stories with a modern, edgy aesthetic, characterized by bold colors, and exaggerated features. The figures in these works typically have large, expressive eyes and prominent faces, often conveying emotions ranging from innocence to mischief or melancholy.

Irene Evangelista’s contributions to the exhibition are particularly notable for her innovative reimagining of classic fairy tale characters. She delves into stories like Hansel and Gretel, Rapunzel, and The Princess and The Frog, crafting her own unique interpretations into these timeless narratives.

Spotlight on Anika Loquite

Anika Loquite’s works, on the other hand, explore the boundless creativity of a child’s imagination as shaped by the art of storytelling. Her paintings offer intimate vignettes that capture the wonder and fantasy inherent in childhood. Through Loquite's eyes, we gain a glimpse into a world where the boundaries between memories and imagination blur. Her work emphasizes the process of storytelling and the lasting impression it leaves on young minds.

Loquite's pieces focus on different relationships and interactions, highlighting their magical nature even in their simplest, most uncomplicated forms. She believes that sometimes the most ordinary moments are truly extraordinary, possessing a charm that often goes unnoticed.

The relationships and interactions conveyed in the artworks include:

Among playmates: "Storytime" depicts children gathering to read books. This ordinary activity becomes extraordinary as their imaginations wander to unknown, exciting places with every turn of the page.

Between a human and a pet: "Midnight Stroll" explores the transformative nature of caring for another being. The artist, who cares for five cats and a stray, feels a profound change in themselves when with their pets. This transformation, characterized by unique behaviors and deeper connections, embodies a sense of magic and power.

Within the family: "Farewell" symbolically represents family members leaving the familiar in search of new beginnings. The bird flying away signifies this departure, while the blue string represents familial love. Sometimes, love means letting go to allow family members to become who they wish to be, wherever that may be.

Between friends: "Exchange Gifts" portrays two friends shyly exchanging gifts they consider special. The yellow ribbons tied to each gift symbolize friendship. One friend offers a treasure box, and the other a big flower—two different gifts, but both valuable. The scene features two girls on top of hills, shyly poised to give each other the gifts they hold.

To oneself: "Unfolding" delves into one's relationship with oneself, the most important relationship of all. For this relationship to thrive in its most fantastical and beautiful form, one must allow their inner flowers to bloom. The artwork features a girl seemingly floating in a sitting position with flora blooming from within her body. The simplicity of the piece draws focus to the subject in the center, with minimal background distractions.

Spotlight on KenToSan

KenToSan provides a refreshing variety within the exhibition by focusing on male characters from fairy tales. His paintings depict soft-featured princes and male protagonists adorned in elaborate ruffs—a detachable pleated collar starched into shape, which lends an air of regality to his subjects. These figures exude a sense of nobility and grace, challenging the often female-centric narrative of fairy tale art. KenToSan's work enriches the exhibition by showcasing a broader spectrum of characters, highlighting the diverse roles men play in fairy tales.

Speaking to the artist, he said to the writer in an interview that collectively, these pieces are borned from his personal reflections on life. As a young visual artist, he has faced struggles that have tempted him to quit living independently and return to his parents. However, he learned firsthand the importance of persevering and moving forward.

"Led by Light" is a painting dedicated to appreciating the artist's family, friends, and mentors who have taught them how to do things right and guided them through life's journey. While there are always people who will doubt one's abilities and try to bring them down, the support of those who are always there for us enables success in any battle.

"Glimpse of the Past" reflects the major lesson imparted by the artist's parents: to be humble and always remember the times when they did not have the opportunities they now enjoy. It is a reminder to appreciate the little things and find happiness in life.

"Surrounded by Lights and Hopes" encapsulates a lesson learned in college and the professional world: the importance of surrounding oneself with positive people. This positive environment fosters optimism and helps one pursue their dreams.

Last but not least is Randolf Novis. His works offer a stylish contemporary interpretation of how the imagination works. He depicts young female figures with vibrantly painted faces set against their dark hair and muted backgrounds. This juxtaposition reflects the complexity of the human mind—a fertile ground for creativity and imagination. Novis’s work delves into the contrast between the vibrant inner world and the seemingly uniform exterior. Through his art, he explores how creativity can flourish even in the most mundane settings, turning the ordinary into something extraordinary.

Collectively, Pixie Dust is a showcase of the magical power of fairy tales, as interpreted by these four artists. Their works act as a gentle reminder of the enduring magic that lies with a little bit of pixie dust.

- Marz Aglipay

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This is an expanded version of the published exhibition notes.

Pixie Dust was on view at Galerie Anna, Festival Mall from June 13 to 25, 2024. Images from Galerie Anna