Exploring the Legacy of National Artist Arturo Luz

The Renaissance Art Gallery presents an exhibition of National Artist Arturo Luz titled “STREAMLINED: The National Artist ARTURO LUZ Exhibition.” The exhibit will run from July 2-13, 2024, at Art Center 4/F at SM Megamall Bldg. A, Mandaluyong City.

The displayed works highlight the qualities that made Luz’s works stand out from his contemporaries: his linear and geometric shapes, minimalism, and exceptional technical skills.

About Arturo Luz

Luz (1924-2021) was a Filipino visual artist known for his work as a painter, printmaker, sculptor, designer, and fine arts instructor. He was immensely influenced by Paul Klee, a renowned Swiss-German artist who played a significant role in early 20th-century avant-garde art.

Luz is known for his minimalist, geometric, and abstract art styles, which are evident in his iconic works that highlight circus performers, musicians, and cityscapes. His compositions focus on essential elements like lines, curves, and calm color palettes.

In 1960, Luz and his wife, Tessie Ojeda Luz, co-founded the Luz Gallery, providing a platform for Filipino artists and fostering artistic exchange. From 1976 to 1986, he served as the founding director of the Metropolitan Museum of Manila. 11 years later, Luz was honored as the National Artist of the Philippines for Visual Arts.

In “STREAMLINED: The National Artist ARTURO LUZ Exhibition,” his original pieces are supplied with written and visual documentation. The exhibit is curated by Cid Reyes, a Filipino artist and art critic.

The exhibit is open to the public until July 13, 2024.

Here are some of the artworks on display:

“Cities of the Past”
36″ x 48″
Acrylic on Canvas

“Clip” (Black)
13″ x 16″ x 20″

“Women Conversing”
24″ x 36″
Acrylic

“Black Sun Over Rajasthan”
38″ x 60″
Acrylic

— Toby Denise Concepcion

Photos: Luz Team