Aotearoa Series  is a collection of 25 paintings on canvas rendered in oil and acrylic. These are the most recent works of the artist, Pinggot Vinluan Zulueta, following his September 2002 exhibition entitled, Asinta: Images and Imageries, held in the Philippines. 

These paintings were inspired by the artist’s impressions and reflections of his experiences abroad.  Aotearoa, which translates to “Land of the Long White Cloud“, is New Zealand’s indigenous name.  The artist has made New Zealand his home since January 2003.

 Aotearoa Series is a documentation of the artist’s experiences while living in a foreign country.  These paintings chronicle the artist’s emotional journey, culminating in hope and a resolve to overcome.  These works have served as the artist’s refuge…his sanctuary.

The visual images portray upheaval, adaptation and redemption.  They are presented in surreal and meditative forms, which may elicit profound contemplation or reflection on existential issues.  A fundamental idea underpinning these works is the potential for self-affirmation in a context of cultural dysfunction. 

 The artworks  present alienation and belonging as a dichotomy … at one point, a plunge into an abyss of solitude, and at best, a celebration of the spirit.  The lone figure symbolizes the artist who is depicted ‘faceless’ to mean loss of identity.  Utilizing expressive emphasis, the ‘skeletals’ in the figure indicate struggles and challenges.  The figure’s ‘wings’ reflect the unseen part in every person … that which helps one to rise above tribulation and to soar towards high aspirations.   

 A common thread that binds these works is introspection…a search for meaning and purpose leading to a coherent sense of reality and vision.  A relevant detail that weaves through these works is the ‘moon’ which represents one’s enduring connection to the familiar and true. The artist had a strong fascination with the moon when growing up in a quaint rural setting.  In these works, the moon represents faith and hope. 

 The artist has drawn on the strength and tenacity of one’s character as a Filipino, imbued with values that nurture resiliency and determination. These works celebrate redeeming values … lasting ties with family and friends … an abiding link to one’s cultural and social past.  These attributes have had an indelible mark in the artist’s approach and will remain a dominant feature in ensuing works.

Deputy Consul General Melita Sta. Maria-Thomeczek of the Consulate General of the Phils, New York ( 3nd from right ) and Phlippine Center General Manager Gavino Abaya, Jr. lead the  ribbon cutting ceremonies at the opening exhibition of Jose Vinluan Zulueta ( center ) entitled, Aotearoa Series held at the Philippine Center Gallery, 5th Avenue, New York. Assisting from left are NY- based fashion designer Bobby T. Yalong and Zeny Avila, Founding Leader of the Ugnayan Filipino Community, St. Francis Assisi Church, NYC.

Liziel Orcajo, former Manila Bulletin graphic designer, Paula and Vanessa Zulueta, NY based fashion designer Celia Umali, the artist, Edwin Lanuza of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Raoul Tidalgo, entertainment editor of the New York based Filipino Reporter and Darwin Ocampo.

   

 The artist with members of UP Alumni Association, NY.