Norman Crisologo is the kind of outsider you want in your circle. Except that he’s fine not being a member of any club. As we once wrote on a profile on this art dealer, sometime artist manager, advisor and, yes, influencer (if you can call a self-confessed “tech idiot” an influencer), the guy’s “prescience about art, his innate understanding of what an audience needs, and his general IDGAF attitude has made him a sought-after curator, and one whose opinion and taste are valued by collectors.”
So there’s no reason why we shouldn’t ask him to be part of our host of tastemakers for the upcoming León Gallery Magnificent September Auction—co-presented by ANCX—and we’re delighted he said yes. As in the others, we asked Norman to draw up his wishlist of what he would bid on among the lots on offer, if money were no object.
As expected, his choices are surprising, honest, on-point. Treat his list as a sort of guide, dear readers, to treasures you might have overlooked while browsing the online catalogue. You’ll thank us later.
Jojo Legaspi (b. 1959)
Snakepit
Signed and dated 1998 (lower right), pastel on paper, 36” x 24” (91 cm x 61 cm)
Number one on my list is this Jojo Legaspi. Any artwork that will not be ignored, won’t blend in with the furniture, and grabs my attention even when I’m asleep is a must-have.
Danilo Dalena (b. 1942)
Jai-Alai Series
Signed and dated 1980 (verso) oil on canvas
36” x 36” (91 cm x 91 cm)
I absolutely love this Danilo Dalena. I think his works trigger subliminal memories within every Pilipino male. Something we have all known but forgotten. The attraction to his pieces goes deep.
Ian Fabro (b. 1993) And You Shall Be Delivered
2015, pen and ink, staple wire
84” x 30” (241 cm x 103 cm)
This Ian Fabro was the piece that got away. I remember seeing this piece at the gallery and instantly I knew I was in the presence of something and by someone very special. Obviously someone else felt the same way and grabbed it before I was able to. Ian’s technique and construction are new and unusual yet strangely old world. I want it.
Jose V. Ayala Jr. (1932 - 2002) Underworld
Signed and dated 1980 (lower right) acrylic on canvas
37” x 96” (94 cm x 244 cm)
Joe Ayala. I love the romance of his story. Back from oblivion with an outstanding body of work from every decade of our lives. It’s time travel and psychedelics in one shot. It’s the Master i might be able to afford.
Ang Kiukok (1931 - 2005)
Jesus Falls Down the Third Time
Signed and dated 1997 (upper left) oil on canvas
36” x 36” (91 cm x 91 cm)
Finally, I want an Ang Kiukok please.
I know Rufino Tamayo might frown a little but hey, they’re just so darn beautiful. From this lot i think i want the Via Dolorosa. Perfect above my Demonyo Table and my ivory Santo Entiero.
Signed and dated 1980 (lower right), acrylic on canvas, 37” x 96” (94 cm x 244 cm). Starting bid rate below. Signed and dated 1997 (upper left) oil on canvas, 36” x 36” (91 cm x 91 cm). Starting bid rate below. 2015, pen and ink, staple wire, 84” x 30” (241 cm x 103 cm). Starting bid rate below. Signed and dated 1980 (verso), oil on canvas
36” x 36” (91 cm x 91 cm). Starting bid rate below. Signed and dated 1998 (lower right), pastel on paper, 36” x 24” (91 cm x 61 cm). Starting bid rate below.
125 Underworld by Jose V. Ayala Jr. (1932 - 2002)
139 Jesus Falls Down the Third Time by Ang Kiukok
148 And You Shall Be Delivered by Ian Fabro (b. 1993)
151 Jai-Alai Series by Danilo Dalena (b. 1942)
18 Snakepit by Jojo Legaspi (b. 1959)
The León Gallery Magnificent September Auction 2020 is happening this September 19 at 2PM. It is the second major alliance between León Gallery, the country’s most trusted auction house and ANCX.ph, the urban man’s guide to style and culture, the online lifestyle site of ANC, the ABS-CBN News Channel.
View the online catalogue as well as register to bid now at www.leon-gallery.com. For inquiries, call (02) 8772-8343 or send an email at info@leon-gallery.co