Redlab*, in cooperation with Vetro Gallery, presents: BEYOND MONOCHROME featuring 36 artworks or various artists in 30 days. It opened last October 1, 2016 and it will run until the end of October.
As described on their website, Redlab* is “a highly specialized print studio that are managed by exhibiting artist focused on Fine-Art photography and custom printing. A member of Aardenburg Imaging and proud partner of Globis Inc.”
READ: Anatomy of Time: A Multimedia Art Exhibit
They are also curators and at the same time local photographers that came together for one purpose. I had a chance to talk to ReD Ognita from Redlab* who shares his ideas and gives artistic guidance. Their goal is to promote photography in the Philippines and not just that but inspire people that we can also embrace Fine Art photography in our country. He wanted photographs to be hanged on walls and be actually looked at because he believes that after you release that shutter, it has to go somewhere. They are there to support you with that.
They offer talks and workshops too. Redlab* saw the opportunity to collaborate during Vetro’s first show with local photographers, so that is how Beyond Monochrome came to happen.
Per wall is a different artist.
It’s amazing how these photographers execute their craft from their imagination to bringing those ideas to life.
This is a photo by Richard Larrios. There is something about a Redlab print that makes you feel. When you look closely, it shows how it is carefully curated, processed, and how high quality print, precision, and customization are prioritized. Some may say that it looks like an illustration because of the texture and how detailed it is, but it is actually a photograph. So if you need a really good print you know who to contact.
“Art is life. Punong puno yung buhay natin ng art.”
– Allan Borebor
Allan Borebor, one of the speakers last October 22nd at Vetro Gallery, explained that Fine Art photography is an expression of the imagination and will of the artist.
Allan loved street photography and from that hobby transpired a career. He did all that he could to get better like studying photography and even joining contests to learn more and see what he should improve on. He was inspired by the word “Fine Art”. Here in the Philippines, commercial photography is much more popular, and what he advocates is to put Fine Art in the scene and have Filipinos embrace it.
Here are Allan’s works at Vetro Gallery:
Raymond Cruz, also from Redlab*, had his chance to share snippets from his life as a photographer and his knowledge about long exposure. His inspiration was Ansel Adams when he was just starting. Just like Allan, Raymond also promotes Fine Art photography. Although he reminded everyone that we should still respect each other’s craft.
Marikina was sort of his playground as he practiced his skills since he lived there. It took some time yet he still couldn’t get what he wanted, so he thought maybe it was his camera. Or his subject. So he invested in a new camera and then started to go farther, to provinces, to mountains, until he finally saw what he wanted.
Landscape photography was always his thing. He creates them with long exposure because it establishes mystery and the “feels.” He says he is also fond of the play and manipulation of light and shadows.
According to Raymond, it is okay to have an inspiration at first. But learn how the photos are taken, work with yours, and find your own style. He believes that photography is a combination of math, science, and art because every element should serve a purpose. He said that to all aspiring photographers or even professional photographers, to keep exploring and learning. “Di ka magiging mahusay sa isang bagay kung hindi ka full time.”
From left Raymond Cruz, Allan Borebor, Arwin Marcelino, Light Lotus Lettuce Li, and Red Ogtina
There will be another talk on October 29, 2016 with speakers Ferdie Tiongson, Light Lotus Lettuce Li and ReD Ognita, Saturday 1pm-4pm. Drop by to see what high quality fine art photography is like here in the Philippines!
Vetro may open possibly for events and even more. The place is flexible for different mediums for different kinds of artists. Their long term target is to expand to cater more mediums like paintings, exhibitions, installations and even a studio.
Special thanks to Ms. Gail Cheng.
BEYOND MONOCHROME
www.redlabph.com
www.facebook.com/vetromanila
