C. J. Tañedo

The painting is in good condition, as is the canvas, which is clear and taut, with wooden back support. The paint layers are intact and well preserved. Examination under ultraviolet light indicates no evidence of retouching. Unframed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

CJ Tañedo's "After a Heavy Storm" is a work of quiet contemplation, incandescent emotion, and elemental power. The human face, as observed and depicted by the artist, is the canvas upon which myriad dramas manifest themselves in subtle measures. It does not mean to impose nor be as vulgar as to merely provoke. Rather it suggests, like the handwritten words of poetry that frames his work. It is this grace and dignity that impresses itself on the viewer.
 
This single piece took more than a month to complete and demanded the artist's complete devotion to capturing the effect he admired in 17th century Dutch painting, especially in the works of Vermeer and Rembrandt. Using up to almost 30 layers of paint, Tañedo made his application of paint finer as he went along, building the base contour of the dermis then delicately sculpting the epidermal features around it. He would start work late at night under controlled lighting and finish the following morning to note the effect of natural sunlight. This was punctuated by prolonged periods of observation and reflection by the artist on the evolving work and noticing the changes as it came to life. For Tañedo, philosophy in painting is within the process, not before or after it.
 
It also makes a case for mystery.
 
The woman in the painting is thinking and we are lost in her thoughts as well as our own. We are not told but rather invited to begin a conversation with her, to engage in silent communion between the clouds of her expression and our understanding. And each time we see her we are open to the possibility that maybe she will turn to look and behold her audience for the first time.

                                                                                              - Erwin Romulo