Lao Lianben: Unraveling the Enigma of an Elusive Artist
Lao Lianben is a renowned artist whose work exudes a sense of calmness and stillness. In his series “Buddhist Television” and “Monk’s Table,” he invites viewers to contemplate and meditate on Zen Buddhism through his stroke cadence and monochrome palette. Despite the serenity in his paintings, Lao describes himself as a talkative and candid person, just like any ordinary individual who values a good conversation.
In an exclusive email interview, Lao opens up about his life, from his tumultuous childhood on Arlegui street in Quiapo, where he fostered his artistic eye amidst the chaos, to his training under Professor Florencio B. Concepcion at fine arts school, and his subsequent collaborations with Arturo Luz and Sionil Jose in their respected galleries. Reflecting on his upbringing and creative process, Lao explains how his unique way of seeing the world influences his art.
Born in 1948, Lao’s early years were spent in a small house overcrowded with his mother, six siblings, and two house helpers. Although they struggled to make ends meet, Lao found solace on the roof, where he would observe the world around him and indulge in his grandmother’s smoking habit. Despite the discomfort of cramped sleeping arrangements and humid nights, Lao’s vivid imagination allowed him to find solace and creativity in his surroundings.
His time at fine arts school under the guidance of Professor Concepcion was a turning point in Lao’s art career. Professor Concepcion emphasized the importance of understanding the principles and history of art, challenging students to question their motivations for painting. This emphasis on introspection and self-awareness deeply impacted Lao’s approach to his craft.
As a Filipino artist with Chinese heritage, Lao’s background has greatly influenced his identity. His grandparents fled China to escape the Japanese occupation, only to face the challenges of World War II in the Philippines. These experiences shaped Lao’s family and instilled in them a sense of resilience and pragmatism. Despite their Chinese ancestry, Lao’s family embraced their Filipino roots, and Lao himself did not send his children to Chinese schools. He is grateful to renowned artists Arturo Luz and Sionil Jose, who recognized the value of his work regardless of his background and provided him with opportunities to pursue his passion.
Lao’s artistic subjects range from begging bowls to figurative ear Buddhas, with a focus on Zen Buddhism principles. He finds inspiration in the enigmatic and quiet nature of Buddha’s image and enjoys exploring the depths and simplicity of the begging bowl as a symbol. When painting, Lao incorporates various materials to create texture and depth, mimicking the appearance of objects like stones or water. He believes in letting the medium interact with him until the painting feels complete.
Over the years, Lao’s paintings have evolved mainly in terms of style and resourcefulness. In his early years, he had to adapt to limited art references and materials, which taught him to be resourceful and creative. Mistakes and oversights served as valuable lessons in his artistic journey.
Lao Lianben’s art continues to captivate audiences with its serenity and contemplative nature. Through his paintings, he invites viewers to delve into the world of Zen Buddhism and explore the depths of their own thoughts and emotions.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
