The Strokes of Old and New

Contemporary artist Dominic Rubio reflects on the personal sentiments attached to elements present in his works, alongside his perspective on the Filipino art scene

Words Sophia Pangandian
Photo courtesy of Kim Albalate
July 1, 2024

When one thinks of a gateway to Filipino culture manifested through art, Dominic Rubio has a lot to offer.

The traditional Filipino setting boldly embedded in Rubio’s works roots from his affinity for heritage, and he believes it plays a crucial role in his expertise. “Mahilig ako mangolekta ng mga sinaunang gamit, tsaka kung ang gagawin ko pa ay iba, edi hindi na bagay sa akin ang pagiging artist,” Rubio asserts.

Zeroing in on the details of his pieces, ethnic Filipinas in different stages of life are also trademarks embodied in Rubio’s artistry. This is motivated by his experiences of visiting Old Manila, wherein he is met with several memories from his childhood.

Alongside the Filipino way of life, he proclaims that Old Manila is his favorite subject in his works.

With an abundance of opportunities to showcase and incorporate his artworks both in various galleries and other forms like furniture, Rubio has certainly declared himself to a wide range of audiences.

As he garners more spectators of his craft, nostalgia from what the Filipino way of life was composed of is the sentiment that Rubio wishes to evoke to his audiences.

This is expressed through his modern approach and style, enabling himself to establish that old and new can simultaneously be part and parcel of an artwork that is nonetheless reflective of the Filipino.

Having been immersed in the Filipino art scene even back when he was still a student, there is no doubt that Rubio has witnessed the array of paths that it has undertaken.

As to his current perspective on the state of the community, he states, “Healthy ang ating sining ngayon kasi ang daming artists.” Rubio finds that there is an ample amount of art collectors and artists who are skilled in their craft.

He also mentions that “art lovers” come from younger generations. “Kaya yung mga gallery parang mga kabute. Dumami nang dumami.”

For his special exhibition in this year’s MoCAF, Rubio is about to refresh the common perception directed at his work.

He shares that there would be a few changes to the renditions of his paintings. “Kailangan may konting evolvement, dahan-dahan, para hindi yung lagi nalang nakikita.”

Allow Dominic Rubio’s pieces to induce a sense of curiosity or remembrance of the Filipino at the Modern and Contemporary Art Festival happening from July 5 to 7 at the Marquis Events Place.