Ricky Montilla’s art exhibit in Chelsea opens Oct. 10

Montilla's flowers and Japanese koi at the Agora Gallery

Montilla’s flowers and Japanese koi on view at the Agora Gallery

'Cattleya,' oil on canvas

‘Cattleya,’ oil on canvas

Painter Ricky Montilla is coming to Agora Gallery through a group exhibition called Modalities of Expression. The exhibit opens on October 10 and continues until October 30. The opening reception takes place on October 16, at 6 p.m.

At the borderlands where Impressionism moves towards Realism, Montilla evokes the threefold language of color, shape and texture in oil on canvas.

Figures, flowers, foliage, water fowl and, as of late, Japanese Koi fish, make up the bulk of his subject matter. Whether rendering rippling lines of light running along the scales of a fish or lush and billowing color on the petals of a dewy flower, these works draw upon deep reservoirs of sensual awareness.

Inspired by Philippine national artist Fernando Amorsolo and the great masters of his homeland, Montilla’s works depict scenes of daily life with ample amounts of emotion and splendid coloration. Drawn to the natural beauty of earth elements and figuration, his works are classic paintings infused with moments of contemporary flavor.

Montilla was born in the Philippines and resides in Bellevue, Washington. He studied Fine Arts, majoring in Painting, at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, and has participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions throughout the Philippines, the United States and Asia.

Based in Washington

Based in Washington

“Impression plays an important role in how we perceive the things around us,” says Montilla in his artist’s statement.

“Over the years, I have absorbed, reflected and explored many different kinds of perspective and perception. The result is my current artistic style, which revolves around impressionism but also combines the influence of realism, creating a kind of fusion of the two styles.”

“I try to create paintings that not only touch the eyes but move the heart as well. I owe everything to God and my family who inspire me to radiate artistry in my work. As long as God sustains my pursuit to manifest this God-given talent through my use of colors, shapes, textures and compositions in my craft, I will continue to paint continuously, creating to my heart’s content,” he says.

Modalities of Expression demonstrates the myriad ways in which artists express truths, passions, and dreams in physical form. Showcasing a variety of techniques and media, including painting, photography, and sculpture, this exhibition tells as many stories as there are artists participating. Viewers are encouraged to experience each work as a vessel for sensation and information.

Agora Gallery is a contemporary fine art gallery located in the heart of Chelsea’s fine art district. Established in 1984, Agora Gallery specializes in connecting art dealers and collectors with national and international artists.

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