Fish and florals by Ricky Montilla
“Montilla in New York” from February 27 to March 9 presents artist Ricky Montilla’s collection of 15 oil paintings at the Philippine Center on Fifth Avenue.Montilla, who took up Fine Arts at the University of Santo Tomas, has had several solo shows and participated in group shows in the Philippines and throughout Asia. He has also dabbled in background animation. Some of his artworks are published in coffee table books, such as the “Encyclopedia of Philippine Art Vol. 1.”
His style of painting is a fusion of impressionism and realism.
“This kind of style captures the image of an object and allows one to perceive the many things around him,” he said. “The style not only focuses upon impression but can influence the viewer to see the style as realism as well.”
His favorite subjects revolve around nature, such as florals and ponds to the beauty of swans and Japanese kois, figures and market scenes. The koi fish is one of Montilla’s bestselling works because of his rendering and execution of colors and the accurateness of the kois’ patches according to breed.
“My paintings are intended to catch the eyes of the viewers and move the hearts from the subtle interplay of colors with distinct brushstrokes,” he said. “My inspiration comes from God, my wife and my two daughters.”
“Montilla in New York” will be Ricky’s first in New York City. There will be a cocktail opening on February 27 at 6 p.m. with Consul General Mario de Leon Jr. and Deputy Consul General Ma. Theresa B. Dizon-De Vega as guests of honor. Consul Zaldy B. Patron of the Economic, Political and Visa sections was also invited.
For additional information contact Zenaida Avila at 212-575-4774 or email the artist at rickymontilla_artist@yahoo.com.