In the realm of contemporary art, Dante Perez emerges as a maestro who skillfully unravels the living ironies imposed upon bodies in industrial societies. Through a series of captivating works, Dante Perez delves into the intricate relationship between beauty and its hidden costs, where manmade standards no longer hold the transformative power they once did. Instead, the human form becomes a complex narrative, a responsibility that challenges societal norms.
Hurricane, Oil and Acrylic on Canvas
Dante's artistic exploration traverses the terrain between graphic design and abstraction, a dance that speaks volumes about his connection to form—solid yet mutable. His paintings serve as a profound dialogue, employing direct symbols to unravel the nuanced archetypes embedded in the human experience. Within the strokes and hues of his canvases, one can discern the palpable tension between the concrete and the fluid, encapsulating the paradoxes of life itself.
Kiss & Tell, Oil and Acrylic on Canvas
The portraiture crafted by Dante Perez is a visual symphony of odd pairings—things, objects, and figures that collide to convey the inherent contradictions of existence. Each stroke is a deliberate exploration of the intricate dance between beauty and burden, a reflection of the burdens placed upon the human form in the contemporary world.
Utopia, Oil and Acrylic on Canvas
Born in 1956 in Sorsogon, Dante Perez was more than just a painter. A versatile artist, filmmaker, and journalist, his journey began in Manila, where he served as an artist director and editorial cartoonist. His passion for storytelling through visual mediums led him to migrate to Singapore, becoming part of the pioneering batch of Filipino journalists for Singapore Press Holdings. Even as he maintained a successful career in journalism, Dante continued to paint, create films, and foster artist communities.
The Gospel, Oil and Acrylic on Canvas
Dante's solo exhibitions in Manila in the early 2000s marked the beginning of a significant chapter in his artistic career. His last solo showcases, "Cold Turkey Flies" (2011) and "Lithium" (2013), hosted by Artinformal Greenhills, stand as testaments to his unwavering commitment to pushing artistic boundaries. Beyond the canvas, Dante's film career reached its pinnacle when he won the best production/visual design accolade at the Gawad Urian and Young Critics’ Circle for Lav Diaz’s "Death in the Land of Encantos" in 2008.
Yo Quiero vivir Siempre, Oil on Canvas
As we reflect on the life and legacy of Dante Perez, we are invited to witness the profound tapestry he wove—an artistic journey that transcended borders, mediums, and societal norms. Dante's work remains a testament to the enduring power of art: to challenge, question, and illuminate the complexities of the human experience.
More than just your go-to for beautiful and inspired living spaces, ITOOH Homestyle is passionate about fostering a connection between art and the home. Our mission is to support and celebrate the local art community by providing a platform for Filipino artists to showcase their unique craftsmanship. ITOOH Homestyle partners with established and up-and-coming artists for curated selections that embody variety, quality, and refined taste. Our diverse collection caters to both novice and seasoned art collectors.
In our featured artist series, we are highlighting the incredible talents behind the artworks we sell. Through these narratives, we invite you to delve into the stories, inspirations, and creative processes of the people whose works you can find on ITOOH Homestyle. For more information, please visit our Art Page today.
