Ang Kiukok

Acquired directly from the artist in the late 1980s
Private Collection, Singapore

This work is in good overall condition as viewed. There is some craqulure visible at areas of thicker impasto. There is a faint mark at the bottom right corner of the work, which has been retouched (as evident under ultraviolet light). Examination under ultraviolet light reveals no other areas of restoration. Framed.
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As one of the students of the artist Vicente Manansala, Filipino painter Ang Kiu Kok’s oeuvre was also best known for his unique illustrations of the Filipino countryside and people. Stylistically influenced by Cubism and Expressionism, the artist paired the traits of these two movements and created his very own artistic language. Ang Kiu Kok’s body of paintings represented the voices of the laymen, celebrating their contributions and within the Filipino society.

Man with Fish bears a significant emotional depth that succinctly exemplifies Ang Kiu Kok’s artistic vocabulary.  The artist redefined the lone figure as per Cubist aesthetics while revealing his vulnerability in the distorted restructuring of the man’s physique. This technique subsequently beautified the rough lives of the less-privileged by drawing attention to their admirable perseverance. By dominating the pictorial composition with only one figure, the artist arrests the audiences’ attention demanding a direct engagement with the fisherman. The saturated colours used establish a strong identity, highlighting the hardworking ethic of the people. Along with other creations from the artist, Man with Fish is an authentic portrayal of the Filipino spirit and a true reflection of the artist’s values.