羅德爾·塔帕雅

This work is in good condition overall, as is the canvas, which is clear and taut. There is light wear and handling around the edges of the painting. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals no evidence of restoration. Unframed, on a stretcher.
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NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

 

In Power Amulet, Rodel Tapaya retells a Filipino folk tradition and conflates it with fiction to create a personalized mythological scene. The peculiar hybrid beings in his absurd world are captured in a state of transformation. Their physical appearances recall an amalgamation of human and animal characteristics. Employing a wide range of literary and historical references, Tapaya produces a hieroglyphic depiction of ancient life. Only by learning more about the Filipino culture can we uncover the codes embedded within his story.

The title Power Amulet originates from the Filipino myth of the agimat (amulet), which is said to have the supernatural power to warn off all evils. Widely used by Filipino revolutionaries as a form of colonial resistance, these amulets are worn as metal pendants during combats. In the painting, the central figure is a man with the head of an eagle. His role as the leader is represented by his domineering posture and his possession of the magical staff. However, facing the triangular amulet dangling from the bird’s beak, even the warrior eagle himself is submissive to pendant’s omnipresent power.

Rodel Tapaya provides a glimpse of the colorful Filipino mythological world, while we find ourselves completely entangled and entranced by all that is unfolding before our eyes.