Waterways Exhibit Delves Into Shared PH-MEX Roots

The “Waterways” exhibition by Caroline Ongpin on display in Bulwagang Carlos V. Francisco (Little Theater Lobby) at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) runs until February 4, 2018.

The concept was extrapolated during her residency at Arquetopia Foundation in Puebla, Mexico. With clever use of layering and depth on her collection of prints, Ongpin tries to accentuate the reimagination of the connections during the Manila Galleon trade.

“Cerradura IV” (2017) | Embossment | from carolineongpin.com

The exhibition is an ongoing investigation of connections which are presented by  a muster of abstract lithographs, linocuts, and embossments. These produce a map-like navigation system. The works are recognizable by their multifold lines that create a lot of rhythm. She tries to buoy questions of national identity and sense of origin, while confronting colonial fictions and collective knowledge.

Details of “Corrientes” (2017) | Linocut and gold leaf on paper mounted on linen

Who is Caroline Ongpin?

Born in 1989, Ongpin graduated with a Fine Arts degree from University of the Philippines, and is now pursuing further studies in drawing and printmaking at The Art Students League of New York.

Ongpin had various solo exhibitions such as “Census” (2013) and “There is No Plan B” (2012) at Now Gallery.

She was also able to penetrate prestigious shows and galleries such as Art Fair Philippines (2014), Tin-Aw Art Gallery (2011), Metropolitan Museum of Manila (2010), and West Gallery (2008).

The exhibition's perspectives are presented within the constructs of history and power. Ongpin challenges the prevailing viewpoint of colonizers and accentuates how the stories of the colonized are often made peripheral.

The Cultural Center of the Philippines invites everyone to her talk on January 24, 2018 at 4 PM.