As a Filipino artist Vicson Apostol, the idea of “home” transcends the confines of walls and roofs; it is the beating heart of his artistic vision and his debut solo exhibit, “Home,” currently on view until December 6 at the ARTablado, Upper Ground Floor, North Wing of Robinsons Antipolo. His artistic journey shaped by resilience and mentorship, Apostol was able to weave a narrative of aspiration, familial bonds and cultural identity through his vivid depictions of homes.
Born in Cagayan Valley and raised in Cabuyao, Laguna, Apostol began as a muralist and portrait artist, later transitioning to canvas painting in 2017. His works, often portraying clusters of small Filipino homes, reflect his belief that “owning a house is one of every Filipino’s dreams… for a better future for our loved ones and family.”
Asked why he focuses on the motif of houses, Apostol explained, “Pangarap ko rin po na magkaroon ng sarili kong bahay kasi po kapag nag-umpisa kang mangarap, hindi lang ito para sa aking sarili kundi para rin sa aking pamilya. Sa pangangarap kasi nagsisimula ang lahat—’yan ang nagbibigay ng inspirasyon at direksyon sa atin.” His works are not merely architectural; they serve as metaphors for hope, stability, and shared dreams.
Through Apostol’s eyes, the concept of a home embodies the Filipino spirit of resilience and family-oriented values. He elaborates, “Kung ako po ang tatanungin, gusto ko lang ng simpleng tahanan—di kalakihan, eksakto lang para sa aking pamilya at syempre may studio para makagawa pa kami ng maraming magagandang pyesa.”
The exhibit explores universal themes of belonging and the human longing for a place of refuge. His paintings of clustered houses evoke a sense of community and interconnectedness. These homes, with their rich, textured layers of color, are not just physical spaces but repositories of memories, dreams and aspirations.
The vibrant, whimsical compositions featured in “Home” highlight his stylistic evolution from realism to a more imaginative approach. These pieces invite viewers to immerse themselves in a journey that Apostol describes as “inspired sa family… bawat pamilya sa bawat tahanan, may inspirasyong kwento ng buhay ng bawat Pilipino.” These same values have given way for Artablado to host this solo exhibit. “Vicson mastery is proof that inspiration and values, put together will form wonderful creations that truly depict the talent of the Filipino artist,” shares Cookie Guirindola-Marquez, RLC’s Corporate PR Manager and Project Lead for Artablabdo.
The emotional resonance of Apostol’s work extends beyond its visual appeal. He recounts how art has been a source of emotional and financial support, enabling him to connect with collectors and provide for his family. “Nung una akala ko walang magtitiwala, pero nung tumagal unti-unti akong nakakakilala ng mga collectors,” he shared, reflecting on his journey.
At its core, Apostol’s art is an invitation. “Gusto ko maging inspirasyon sa mga makakakita ng aking artworks at para mangarap din sila at gumawa ng paraan para maabot ang mga pangarap nila,” he said, emphasizing the transformative power of ambition and creativity.
Through “Home,” Apostol bridges the personal and the collective, creating a space where viewers can reflect on their own journeys and aspirations. His works remind us that homes, like dreams, are built not just with bricks but with hope, love and a vision for a better tomorrow.
The artist’s choice of ARTablado for his debut was deliberate. As he put it, “Isa ang ARTablado sa unang nagtiwala sa mga kagaya kong artist na nagsisimula at nagbibigay daan tungo sa malaking mundo ng art scene.” This gratitude underscores Apostol’s emphasis on how Robinsons Land’s ARTablado nurtures budding talent and constantly fosters artistic growth.
Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) champions the artistic dreams of someone like Apostol by providing the ARTablado platform. With a profound belief in the creativity and ingenuity of Filipino artists, RLC has dedicated spaces at Robinsons Malls in Antipolo and Ortigas, offering a stage for artists to showcase their relentless hard work, grit, and perseverance. ARTablado has quickly become a transformative force for the art community, fulfilling the long-standing need for a platform that celebrates every artist — from solo practitioners to collective art groups — allowing his or her talent to shine in the spotlight they deserve.
