For half a century, Galleria Duemila has been more than just a gallery; it’s been a vibrant heartbeat within the Filipino art world, forged through genuine connection and unwavering support for artists.
Founded in 1975 by Silvana Ancellotti-Diaz, the gallery began not as a business venture, but as a simple desire – a curiosity to meet the creators shaping the nation’s artistic landscape and a growing passion to champion contemporary Philippine art.
Now, Galleria Duemila celebrates its 50th anniversary with “AVANTI, SEMPRE AVANTI / FORWARD, ALWAYS FORWARD,” a remarkable exhibition showcasing the work of 37 artists who became lifelong friends of Ms. Ancellotti-Diaz. It’s a masterclass collection, rarely seen by contemporary eyes.
“There is a responsibility to treasure what we have,” Ms. Ancellotti-Diaz shared, emphasizing the importance of preserving artistic heritage. “If you don’t give importance to it, it disappears.”
The exhibit unveils a diverse range of works – paintings, sculptures, mixed media – offering a glimpse into a rich artistic history. These pieces represent pivotal moments and unique perspectives, spanning decades of creative expression.
Among the featured artists are luminaries like Leopoldo Aguinaldo II, Benedicto “Bencab” Cabrera, Cesar Legaspi, and Pacita Abad, each contributing to the tapestry of Philippine modern art.
Ms. Ancellotti-Diaz’s recollections bring the artwork to life, revealing the stories and inspirations behind each piece. She details Legaspi’s cubist interpretations of the sea and the international influences on Alcuaz and Sanso’s paintings.
The exhibit also highlights the powerful narratives woven into the work of female artists, from Julie Lluch’s evocative Cactus sculptures to Phyllis Zaballero’s poignant Sea Horizon I, reflecting moments of personal and artistic transformation.
Curator Angel Velasco-Shaw described the selection process as “extremely difficult,” given the gallery’s vast collection amassed over fifty years. Each piece was chosen with intention, representing a significant chapter in Galleria Duemila’s story.
Some works hold particular significance, like Isabel Diaz’s “Anxiety of Motherhood,” the very first exhibit Ms. Ancellotti-Diaz organized, and a sculpture by May Baddour, marking Galleria Duemila’s inaugural show in 1976.
Ms. Ancellotti-Diaz fondly recalls her father-in-law’s initial skepticism, predicting the gallery would be a financial failure. Today, Galleria Duemila stands as the oldest continuously operating commercial art gallery in the Philippines, a testament to her vision.
Pacita Abad’s “Rolling Stones” is another treasured piece, representing a poignant moment from the artist’s final exhibition before her passing in 2004. Ms. Ancellotti-Diaz also champions Luis “Junyee” Yee, Jr., believing his innovative installations deserve national recognition.
The artworks on display span from 1957 to 2018, offering a captivating journey through the evolution of Philippine modern art. The gallery also features archival documentation, emphasizing its commitment to preserving and sharing artistic knowledge.
Throughout January and March, the gallery will host walkthroughs and panel discussions, fostering dialogue and appreciation for the art on view. These events will be open to the public, details to be announced.
“Silvana is an important figure who was able to bring Philippine art out into the world,” Ms. Velasco-Shaw noted. “She is proof of the importance of patronage, of how we need to grow art from the ground up.”
Ms. Ancellotti-Diaz’s journey began with a desire to connect with artists, attending exhibitions and workshops, immersing herself in the vibrant Saturday Group. As an outsider, her priority was understanding their vision and the forces driving their creativity.
“The language of art is in the heart,” Ms. Velasco-Shaw added, highlighting the power of exchange and support that transcends boundaries.
A book documenting Galleria Duemila’s history and Ms. Ancellotti-Diaz’s contributions is currently in development, featuring insights from prominent art writers like Cid Reyes and Eileen Legaspi Ramirez. It’s intended as a legacy for generations to come.
The exhibit “AVANTI, SEMPRE AVANTI / FORWARD, ALWAYS FORWARD” is currently on view at Galleria Duemila, located in Pasay City, offering a compelling glimpse into a remarkable artistic journey.
