If being born is the ultimate act of creation, what comes next? For 26-year-old Andre Chan from Cebu, the answer unfolds through questioning everything in his art. Reflecting on what inspired his artistic journey, he reveals, "QUESTIONS. Questioning existence (I was aware of this at six). Questioning authorities. Questioning the elements of the world. Why was I born? Why should I be grateful? What’s the reason behind it all? I did not consent to enter this world, and now I’m constantly grappling with these QUESTIONS."
At 16, Andre started his artistic journey, selling his first piece, “Man Against Society.” His influences are as diverse as they are profound, drawn from the richness of his experiences and the ties of thoughts that shape his creative vision. He finds beauty in the natural world, letting its elements inspire and inform his work, imbuing each piece with a sense of wonder and deep connection. "I mainly play with thoughts," he shares. "And thoughts I primarily bring to life through paintings on canvas."
Andre Got Questions
Art is a consequence of human evolution, mirroring the complex amalgamation of life and experiences that shape our being. Andre perceives this evolution with a keen eye, channeling his questions through his art, focusing on societal questions, the quest for expression unbounded by constraints, personal evolution, and the challenge against toxic positivity.
Reflecting on his early career, andre cites systemic problems and exploiters as some of his biggest challenges. "It’s always trying to fight the system and when you fight the system you are demonized." Despite these struggles, he feels they have given him a greater sense of purpose and a sharper perspective, "the ability to question without apology and owning who you are." He describes this breakthrough as "a multi-layered cake," symbolizing the complex and ongoing nature of his artistic journey.
TRANSMU+A+ION
Over the years, Andre's questioning curiosity has led him to create multitudes of art and curate three solo exhibitions. His exploration of self-expression has not only resulted in stunning works but has also inspired others to find their own creative voices. Now, as he celebrates his 10th year in the industry with TRANSMU+A+ION, Andre invites us to join him on a collective journey of artistic liberation.
“I would be happy to see you all in one circle, sharing the value of being human and discovering how we can make our movement truly free. Let’s ride the wave of the vast desert of free expression,” Andre shares.
For TRANSMU+A+ION, Andre wanted to create a space that celebrated the power of expression and authenticity. He approached the curation with a simple yet profound concept: happiness shared is doubled, and sadness shared is halved. By showcasing a diverse range of artworks that explored both joyful and poignant themes, he aimed to inspire viewers to embrace their own emotions and find freedom in self-expression. Ultimately, his goal was to create a space where everyone felt empowered to live their lives authentically.
While the complete collection remains under wraps, Andre revealed some key pieces that promise a captivating experience at his 10th anniversary exhibit, TRANSMU+A+ION. The centerpiece will be a large-scale painting that embodies the theme of transformation. In addition, the exhibit will feature a multi-sensory lecture performance in collaboration with SAAN SAAN and IMMA, DJ sets by KADILIMAN and JIMMYJ, and booths showcasing local artisans like HA.MU, Mirrobeads, SAAN SAAN, Wilmark Jolindon, and Ricardo Yan. This collaborative event promises a unique and immersive experience for visitors.
For the artists who never asked
Andre’s journey of questioning and creation has profoundly shaped his artistic path, in reflecting on his journey thus far to the Filipino art scene, Andre shares his vision: “I hope to create one safe community and that we don’t have to act vigilant. I want to erase confidence because it is a response to societal barriers. I want to promote that we should be able to move NATURALLY and SAFE to begin with.”
Through his art, Andre aims to foster a space where individuals can express themselves freely and authentically, contributing to a more inclusive and supportive artistic environment where we keep questioning questions that lead to art.
