Pope Francis Painting by Ernan

Ernan Tornea Pillerva

Studied Bachelor of Fine Arts Major in Advertising in St. Scholastica’s College, Manila, 1991-95.

Out of my martial arts training came a discovery. My state of mind while painting is the same as I am performing martial arts, spiritual in a fit of artistic emotions. Decisive, hard and soft in a state of grace expressed in bold lines, strokes, and contrasting colors.

Traditional painting was briefly my practice; however I later discovered my fascination in expressionism, where I cannot be restricted by norms but only pure expressions. The flow of intense energy through bold strokes and thick application of paints bring excitement. Every unexpected form and contrast are mysteries and discoveries exposed. Art is not imitating but transforming the vision to create and induce emotional reactions.

I paint with great energy and enthusiasm that every piece is a moment of inspiration, existing at that moment. It is a bold stroke of creativity, a moment that cannot be repeated. I attribute my arts with Zen practice, a way of reflection and learning. Painting is an outlet to put my thoughts and emotions into visual context, like a kick and a shout in my martial arts practice.

Painting for me is like an everyday experience, full of surprises and discoveries. It is always the unexpected that brings excitement and awe. Every piece of art that I do is a challenge, transforming the subject to a timeless expression of dramatic contrast in a frozen moment. I do not limit myself and copy what is already visible and existing, instead I explore the limitless possibilities of visual expressions.

The eyes can always fool us but our spirit can always feel. Abstract art is non-figurative, so there is nothing wrong if you cannot see any identifiable figure or elements in my art and absolutely there is nothing wrong with a painting if you cannot understand it.

I do traditional painting still sometimes using watercolor mediums with my portraits and landscapes. It flows, for watercolor is fluid and exciting to work with!

• Nationality: PHILIPPINES
• Date of birth : unknown date
• Artistic domains:
• Groups: Contemporary Filipino Artists