It has been written how blue is often used as a symbol of depth, tranquility and introspection in the visual arts. Its association with the sky and the sea gives blue a vastness that evokes feelings of infinity and boundlessness. Artists have used blue to convey a sense of calmness and peace, but also melancholy or spiritual yearning. However, blue can also be imbued with more complex and sometimes contradictory meanings depending on the context. In modern and contemporary art, blue is often associated with abstraction and emotional expression. Blue can signify both the profound and the intangible, serving as a versatile symbol of human emotion and existential depth.
Tied together by their shared palette yet distinct in their personal interpretations, Raeche, Ronna and Rufe redefine how they respond to and make a connection with the color in “Into the Blue,” on view until Sept. 30 at Robinsons Land ARTablado, Level 3 of Robinsons Galleria, Ortigas Center.
At the heart of the show lies the convergence of three distinctive approaches to painting, united by the singularity of blue.
For Ronna, blue signifies peace and balance, an apt metaphor for her serene renderings of tranquil ponds and graceful koi fish. With her architectural background, Ronna brings precision and a multi-dimensional effect to her work, using acrylics to balance technical skill with emotional depth. “Blue is cool to the eyes, and evokes a soothing response,” Ronna explains, “It’s my favorite color and represents harmony, which is central to my artistic vision.”
Raeche, on the other hand, approaches blue as a symbol of endless possibilities. Her energetic, fluid strokes capture the movement of life, whether in scenes of children at play or dynamic figurative subjects. “When I paint, I immerse myself in a world of my own, where it’s just me, my canvas, and the way I express the beauty in my mind,” she shares. To her, blue clears the mind and represents the vast ocean of creativity, allowing her to experiment freely. “It’s a color that unveils infinite horizons, much like the ocean brimming with possibilities”.
In contrast, Rufe’s interpretation of blue brings a quiet stillness to the exhibition. His still-life compositions, dominated by shades of blue, offer a contemplative perspective on everyday objects. “I use blue not just to evoke tranquility but also to encourage viewers to see beyond the familiar,” Rufe says. “Through a deliberate restraint in color, I challenge the viewer to appreciate the subtle nuances that blue offers, from hope to introspection.” Rufe’s works serve as an invitation to slow down, to contemplate, and to find beauty in the simple and the quiet.
The color blue, often associated with tranquility and calm, serves as more than just a visual anchor in this exhibition. It symbolizes the artists’ shared pursuit of harmony amidst their varied approaches. “Into the Blue” becomes a dialogue between these creators, where blue acts as the common thread that binds their works, much like the color’s historical association with unity and cohesion.
Another element that binds these three artists is their faith in a platform such as Robinsons Land ARTablado for its commitment to supporting Filipino talent, its accessible location, and in helping share their artistic vision to a broader audience.
For Ronna, the gallery’s elegant presentation enhances the pieces, creating an immersive experience for viewers. “I’ve seen how ARTablado supports each exhibit enthusiastically, and the panels really enhance the artworks that are hung,” she says.
Raeche sees the exhibition as an opportunity to inspire future generations of artists. “We hope to inspire younger generations to dream and recognize the beauty in every piece of art,” she reflects, envisioning the impact the exhibit might have on casual visitors. “Exhibiting at ARTablado presents new opportunities for us, allowing mall-goers to openly appreciate our work.”
The artist adds how she hopes that visitors will not only enjoy the works but also find deeper meaning in them. “In this exhibit, we explore varied emotions tied to blue — from tranquility and serenity to expressive passion and playful energy,” she says.
Rufe sums it up best: “Blue is a color that speaks to the soul, and we invite everyone to join us on this journey of discovery.”
