Katrina “Tanya” Gaisano-Lee is an artist who is known for her thought-provoking works that explore a wide range of themes. In her recent pieces, she has been focusing on the concept of dualism, which is the idea that there are two contrasting, yet complementary, elements that exist in everything.
Gaisano-Lee’s exploration of dualism in her artistry transcends beyond the visual aspect. She also explores various mediums and techniques, utilizing them to produce a contrast of textures and tones in her works. Her intention is to evoke a feeling of both tension and harmony that mirrors the concept of dualism.
Through her art, Gaisano-Lee invites viewers to contemplate the duality that exists within themselves and in the world around them. Her works challenge us to see beyond the surface of things and to embrace the inherent contradictions that make up our complex human experience.
In this art series, the artist explores the concept of dualism which can be interpreted as the contradictions, contrasts, or differences that exist between two aspects within a common medium.
Much like in life, the natural world is replete with dualities such as light and darkness, solids and liquids, hot and cold, wet and dry, and so on. These opposing dualities possess contrasting attributes yet come together to create the world we inhabit and all the beauty and ugliness that exists within it.
Local weaves are used to add depth and texture to the pieces, rooting them in their Mindanaoan culture. T’nalak and Inabel represent the people and their traditions.
The artworks showcase a range of natural phenomena, from the golden sunrise to the stormy clouds, flat grasslands, blue pristine waters, rich red mineral-filled mountains, and lush green forests. In contrast, they also depict the urban landscape, with its dense population and concrete jungle, as well as the jewel tones of the night reflecting the silver moonlight and rolling thunder clouds.
It is the hope of the artist to bring awareness and appreciation to the dualities of the natural world and by extension the dualities we inevitably must face as we navigate the calm waters and brave the raging seas while traversing a limitless universe on a pale blue dot that is literally the journey of our lives.
Gaisano-Lee is a Davao-based self-taught artist who began her artistic journey in 2014 with only a black pen.
Originally drawing simple black-and-white patterns, the artist eventually began diversifying and incorporating vivid colors and textures into her art using acrylics and ink – all of which have now become integral elements of her artistic expression.
Gaisano-Lee’s style is deeply inspired by her personal experiences and exposure to foreign arts and cultures from her frequent travels.
Over the years, she developed her own signature style which can be aptly described as avant-garde with respect to conventional styles of painting. Her distinctive selection of modern abstract elements coupled with vibrant and subdued colors with intricate patterns culminates in unique creations that blend in with contemporary design or provide a touch of modern accents in traditional settings.
Check out Gaisano-Lee’s ongoing solo exhibit at the Crucible Gallery located at Building A SM Megamall. Entitled Habi ng Kalikasan, the exhibit is on view until May 14.
