Tanglaw by Roel Obemio

THE COLLECTION

What does “Tanglaw” mean to you? In this special collection, visual artists Japs Antido, Abi Goy, Roel Obemio, and Shannah Orencio unpack the meaning of this Filipino word through their artworks, transformed into stunning retractable and rechargeable art lamps to add a touch of warmth and cultural richness to any space.

THE LAMP

• Gift box: Elegant packaging to keep your lamp safe and for easy gifting
• Art card: To learn more about the artist
• Lamp body: Made of durable specialty paper that folds into a unique shape
• Sturdy base: Comes with a touch dimmer that bears the artist’s signature
• Charging cable: For easy recharging of your lamp
• Built-in lithium-ion battery: Provides 4-6 hours of continuous illumination

THE ARTWORK

TREES SONATA (Acrylic on Canvas, 2020)

"The wonders of nature never cease to amaze and inspire me. I often find “Tanglaw means hope. In ‘Trees Sonata,’ two figures pay homage to three trees which represent the Philippine island groups of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, paying tribute to the importance of coexistence between human and natural resources.

Narrative elements signify loss, both direct and consequent, to the ecosystem caused by negligent and careless human activity and politics. But even in the face of such challenges, nature offers hope for regeneration and harmony through our collective efforts and care.” – Roel Obemio

THE ARTIST

Roel Obemio completed Fine Arts at the University of the East in the Philippines, where he majored in painting. Widely admired for his works in watercolor and acrylic, his art is influenced by his admiration for the art of two great painters: Fernando Botero (Colombia) and Mauro Malang Santos (Philippines).

Obemio uses volume as a central element in his art. This deliberate use of voluptuous and plump figures imbues his works with a sense of strength and a touch of whimsy. Through these figures, he explores the beauty and complexity of the human form while crafting imagined worlds.

The artist has held several successful solo exhibitions and steadily gained admiration from collectors and critics. A member of the famed Saturday Group, Obemio boasts numerous awards, including the grand prize from the 61st Art Association of the Philippines’ Annual Awards.

BUY 1, DONATE BOOKS TO JUAN

Every purchase of this book is matched with book donations to two children from disadvantaged communities in the Philippines in support of CANVAS' One Million Books for One Million Filipino Children Campaign.