Lot description
Romulo Olazo (1934 - 2015) Diaphanous B-CXLVII signed and dated 2010 (lower right) oil on canvas 48” x 72” (122 cm x 183 cm) Literature: Reyes, Cid. ROMULO OLAZO. Paseo Gallery, 2013. page 131. WRITE UP: The iconic Diaphanous series by acclaimed abstractionist Romulo Olazo is the result of decades of rigorous experimentation and practice. An exploration of the possibilities of imagery and technique, Olazo’s work seemingly exemplifies the artist’s breathtaking creative vision. The term diaphanous is derived from the Medieval Latin term diaphanus, which is itself derived from the Greek term diaphenin which means to show. The term is now used to describe a fineness of detail or texture akin to a delicate form of translucency. Its hardly commonplace usage in contemporary English aptly reflects the series’ originality given that critics often found Olazo’s work containing an indescribable sense of beauty and awe. His uniquely groundbreaking technique showcases the relationship between color, form, and texture. His central elements are defined by an ethereal sense of transparency given that they are rendered with a distinct delicacy of form. While his background elements are imbued with complex color gradiations, perfectly complementing his works’ natural sense of ebb and flow. While many artists disguise the processes of their artmaking, Olazo highlights them in a way that makes the experience of viewing and interpreting his art a deeply personal experience, a meditative journey. The work invites the viewer to mentally review the painting process as he strips layer after layer, like thin veils of illusion until nothing but the dark background remains, and then reverses the process as the painting is once more recomposed and one appreciates the total image in depth. Olazo has often modified the basic layering process by crumpling and folding the fine diaphanous tissues, by heightening tonal play in thin facets, and by superimposing the gossamer sheets to stimulate overlapping surfaces. The total effect is one of sumptuousness and total elegance.
