Showdown at high noon

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Jul 2, 2023 12:25 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Last Saturday, July 1, Filipino viewers were captivated by the return of Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon, and their Dabarkads on their latest show "EAT" aired on TV5. Vice Ganda was cheered as he made a grand entrance in a helicopter to launch "It's Showtime" on GTV Channel. Fans of "Eat Bulaga" on GMA expressed their excitement as Isko Moreno, Paolo Contis and the other hosts welcomed TVJ to their new home and promised to deliver even more fun and entertainment.

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TVJ and the Legit Dabarkads do an elevator selfie after their successful launch show on TV5 (TVJ official Facebook page)

By Robert R. Requintina & Annalyn Jusay

Philippine television is alive once again after three daily noon shows aired simultaneously and fought for audience, ratings, and advertisements.

Last Saturday, July 1, Filipino viewers were captivated by the return of Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon, and their Dabarkads on their latest show "EAT" aired on TV5. Vice Ganda was cheered as he made a grand entrance in a helicopter to launch "It's Showtime" on GTV Channel. Fans of "Eat Bulaga" on GMA expressed their excitement as Isko Moreno, Paolo Contis and the other hosts welcomed TVJ to their new home and promised to deliver even more fun and entertainment.

E.A.T. is the title of new VJ show

E.A.T. is the title of the legendary noontime show of Tito, Vic, Joey, and the Legit Dabarkads which premiered July 1, at its new home on TV5, the Kapatid network.

The whole gang was treated to a rousing, emotional welcome at the TV5 HQ in Mandaluyong City. Aside from being shown on TV5 free TV, the show was also aired on Cignal, Sat Lite, and streamed on Youtube and Facebook. As previously announced, viewing stations in malls and public places were also set up so that legions of fans can join in the fiesta.

TVJ's family members were there to give their moral support and were seen as teary-eyed at one point. Among them Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto, Helen Gamboa (wife of Tito Sotto), Pauleen Luna (wife of Vic Sotto), Eileen Macapagal - De Leon (wife of Joey), Oyo Boy Sotto, and Kristine Hermosa.

The hosts said  the title E.A.T. stands for a lot of things (Eto Ang Title, Eto Ang Tadhana, Eto Ang True, etc.) but it appears that they will use the title until there's an official decision on who is the rightful owner of the term "Eat Bulaga!"

"Simula ng bagong pakikipagsapalaran. Dito tayo bubuo ng kuwento. Ito na ang bago nating simula," TVJ said as they made a dramatic entrance to the TV5 studio wearing red shirts. The show stretched to almost five hours with the trio singing classic OPM hits like " Ïkaw Lang ang Aking Mahal" and " Awitin Mo At Isasayaw Ko."

Paolo Ballesteros dressed up as Vice Ganda from the rival noontime while Ryzza Mae Dizon impersonated Miss Tapia. The rest of the Dabarkads such as Maine Mendoza, Allan K, Wally Bayola, Jose Manalo, Carren Eistrup, and Ryan Agoncillo delighted the audience with their song and dance numbers.

The show's special guest was megastar Sharon Cuneta  She sang her hits " Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko" and " Bituing Walang Ningning" with TVJ.

Sharon, who is the niece of Helen Gamboa-Sotto, took a swipe at TVJ's former producers when she remarked: "Karangalan ko pong narito ako dahil bumalik sa ere ang ating show ng TVJ. Pero talagang sumama ang loob ko dahil dapat inalagaan kayo. Ayoko ng pinagdaanan nyo. You didn't deserve that."

(It's an honor for me to be here now that your show is back on air. But I admit I was hurt because they should have taken care of you. I did not like what you went through. You didn't deserve that.)

E.A.T. will be shown on the noontime slot of the Kapatid network from Mondays to Saturdays. In its launch episode, it introduced some of the segments that people can start joining starting next week. Some of these are the kiddie contests " Wala Ka Sa Apo Ko," " Vortas 5" and "Wag Kayong Ganun" which replace " Bawal Ang Judgmental."

The cast of 'Eat Bulaga' (Alexa Miro Facebook)

'Eat Bulaga' congratulates TVJ

The revamped "Eat Bulaga" concluded with a moving and inspiring statement from its hosts during its first month-sary celebration on GMA Network on July 1.

"Ang bagong 'Eat Bulaga,' hindi na ito tungkol sa mga hosts. Tungkol ito sa mga viewers," said Isko Moreno, at the end of the program. "That's why kung mapapansin ninyo, bagong pamamaraan ng pagbibigay saya. Kaya nga tinatawag naming tulong at saya. Yun ang handog ng 'Eat Bulaga.' "

(The new Eat Bulaga is no longer about the hosts. It's about the viewers. That's why if you notice, we have a new method of giving fun. That's why we call it service and fun. That's the offering of Eat Bulaga.)

Isko continued: "Minsan sa buhay natin meron tayong napapamahal sa isang bagay o isang tao. But life must go on. Kapag iniwan ka, palitan mo agad. Tama naman di ba? Yung magdyo-dyowa? Kailangan ninyong mag-move on."

(Sometimes in our lives, we fall in love with something or someone else. But life must go on. If they leave, you change them immediately. Isn't that right? You have to move on.)

"If there's one good thning, eto pangkalahatan na ito, about what is happening in noontime show today, ultin ko, buffet na po. Marami na kayong mapagpipilian. In our own little way, kami'y magsisikap, na makatulong at makapagpasaya. Basta ang aasahan ninyo, ang bagong 'Eat Bulaga,' ay tungkol na sa viewers."

(If there's one good thing, here's the general thing, about what is happening in the noontime show today, I repeat, it's a buffet. You have a lot to choose from. In our own little way, we'll try to help and make you happy. The new 'Eat Bulaga,' is about the viewers.)

Paolo Contis, one of the hosts, said: "Katulad nga ng sinabi ni Yorme, ang noontime (show) ngayon ay parang buffet, pero sana, kami ang lagi ninyong piliin. Happy July 1. Today is our month-sary."

(Just like Yorme said, today's noontime (show) is like a buffet, but hopefully, you will always choose us.)

At the start of the program, Paolo said: "Masasabi nating Ito na ang bagong era ng noontime show habit ninyo. Alam namin na updated kayo sa mga nangyayari. Gaya ninyo excited din po kami.

(We can say that this is the new era of your noontime show habit. We know that you are updated with what is happening. We are as excited as you are.)

"Para sa karamihan isa itong malaking kumpetisyon. Pero para sa programa tulad ng 'Eat Bulaga,' na 44 years na na nagpapasaya, hindi po ito kumpetisyon. Ito ay aming inspirasyon."

(For most it's a big competition. But for a program like 'Eat Bulaga,' which has been entertaining for 44 years, it's not a competition. It's our inspiration.)

Isko said: "Mahal namin kayo. May sakit o wala, the show must go on. Lalabis-labisin na namin. To Tito Sen, Vic, and Joey and their Dabarkads, congratulations sa inyo!

(We love you. Sick or not, the show must go on. We're going to go all out. To Tito Sen, Vic, and Joey and their Dabarkads, congratulations to you!)

"Masaya kami may bago na kayong tahanan. Masaya kami kasi marami ng pagpipilian ang mga tao. Marami na kayong choices.

(We are happy that you have a new home. We are happy because people have many choices. You have many choices.)

"Taos puso sampu ng aming mga kasama, staff, production, the management, TAPE Incorporated, we warmly welcome and congratulate Tito, Vic and Joey. Congratulations po!" Isko added.

On May 31, TVJ and their Dabarkads left GMA Network following issues with TAPE Inc., producer of the longest-running noontime show "Eat Bulaga."

Replacing TVJ and Dabarkads were Paolo, Alexa Miro, Bayani Agbayani, Buboy Villar, Betong Sumaya, Cassy Legaspi, and Mavy Legaspi. Other hosts were added to the show, including Isko who debuted in the program on June 10.

Jhong, Vhong, Vice, Anne, Barbie, Sanya, Alexa, and Belle on 'It's Showtime' (ABS-CBN)

'It's Showtime' premieres on GTV 

ABS-CBN's and GMA's biggest stars came together to mark another milestone as they joined the debut of "It's Showtime" on GMA's second free-to-air channel, GTV.

The popular noontime show opened with an all-star number featuring It's Showtime hosts Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, Vhong Navarro, Jhong Hilario, Kim Chiu, Amy Perez, Ryan Bang, Ion Perez, Cianne Dominguez, Jackie Gonzaga, MC and Lassy with Kapamilya stars Belle Mariano, Alexa Ilacad, Jolina Magdangal, Chie Filomeno, and Erik Santos, and Kapuso stars, Sanya Lopez, Rodjun and Rayver Cruz, Pokwang, Mark Bautista, and Barbie Forteza. Famous content creator AC Soriano meanwhile joined the show's gap show, "It's Showtime Online U."

"It’s really happening. Buong bansa at buong mundo ang saksi dito sa makasaysayang selebrasyon natin. Wala nang titindi sa pinakamatinding plot twist ng taon. Dahil ang Kapamilya at Kapuso ngayon ay pinag-isa. Nakakatuwa na pinagsasama-sama ang Kapamilya at Kapuso stars," Vice said.

The show's hashtag #GnaGsaShowtime trended no.1 on Twitter worldwide as soon as the opening number began. Also making it to the trending list were Belle, Christian, Barbie, ABS-CBN, Argus, and Rayver Cruz. 

ABS-CBN president and CEO Carlo L. Katigbak and head of TV Production and Star Magic head Laurenti Dyogi joined the madlang people in the studio to show their support for the whole "It's Showtime" family. 

Vice thanked GMA’s bosses chairman and CEO Felipe Gozon, president and COO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., executive vice president and CFO Felipe S. Yalong, and senior vice president for programming, talent management, worldwide, and support group, and president and CEO of GMA Films Annette Gozon-Valdes for giving "It's Showtime" a new home.

"Maraming salamat po pati na rin sa mga Kapuso na naki-party at naki-sayaw sa akin noong nagshoot ako sa GMA. Ang sarap ng pagtanggap at pagmamahal niyo dyan," the unkabogable star said.

Aside from the explosive numbers from the Kapamilya and Kapuso stars, Vice surprised the madlang people by riding a helicopter from ABS-CBN compound to GMA Network and performed "Glad You Came" with cheering Kapusos and dancers in front of the GMA Network Center. 

"Unbreak My Heart" stars Jodi Sta. Maria, Richard Yap, Joshua Garcia, and Gabbi Garcia were present to witness the big day on television.

The premiere episode on GTV was also the grand finals of the first "Tawag ng Tanghalan Duets, wherein Marielle Montellano and JM Dela Cerna won as the grand champions.

They garnered a total average score of 98.3 percent from the combined hurado scores from judges Louie Ocampo, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Nyoy Volante, Marco Sison, Erik Santos, Gary Valenciano, Jona, and Darren Espanto plus Kapuso singers Christian Bautista and Mark Bautista. They beat John Saga and Kim Nemenzo with 95.3 percent and Eumee Capili and Anton Antenorcruz with 91.6 percent. As the first "TNT Duets" champion, JM and Marielle received P500,000 and a trophy designed by Toym Imao. 

As the first season of “Tawag ng Tanghalan Duets” came to an end, “It’s Showtime” also teased its viewers to watch out for the seventh season of "TNT" today, July 3. (With a report from ABS-CBN)

PLDT overpowers Akari

BY NIKOLE JAVIER

  

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AT A GLANCE

• The High Speed Hitters are off to a winning start after spoiling Faith Nisperos’ debut with the Chargers for their first win in Pool A.

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PLDT overpowered Akari, 25-15, 25-19, 25-22, in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Invitational Conference on Saturday, July 1, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.

The High Speed Hitters are off to a winning start after spoiling Faith Nisperos’ debut with the Chargers for their first win in Pool A.

Dell Palomata and Rhea Dimaculangan lead PLDT to its first win against Akari in the PVL Invitational Conference. (PVL Images)

Rhea Dimaculangan, who tallied five points and 11 excellent sets, had the full rotation working with her playmaking as the High Speed Hitters finished with a balanced scoring.

Dell Palomata top-scored for PLDT with 14 points on 10 attacks, three blocks and an ace, while Jovielyn Prado finished with 13 points.

Mich Morente, for her part, added 11 points highlighted by three service aces.

It was an 18-5 start in the opening set for PLDT after Dimaculangan’s 1-2 play kept Akari’s defense scrambling.

The Chargers momentarily recovered and went on a 5-1 run capped by Lycha Ebon’s back-to-back points to cut the deficit by a single-digit, 19-10.

However, Morente took flight and hammered down three consecutive hits to widen the gap anew, 22-10.

Akari then pulled itself within nine after another 5-2 run finished off by Dindin Santiago-Manabat’s crosscourt attack, but Palomata punctuated the set with a quick hit.

After trailing 12-7 in the second set, Akari managed to dig itself out of the deficit and for the first time put the match at a deadlock of 13-all.

But it was the last time the Chargers came that close to PLDT as it quickly regained full control of the game to seize a 2-0 set lead.

The High Speed Hitters jumped to a 13-8 lead in the third set, but the Chargers showed some resistance and were able to close the gap at 21-18 through Trisha Genesis’ crosscourt shot.

Jessey De Leon and Palomata, though, scored two successive points for PLDT to maintain some distance from Akari.

Santiago-Manabat continued the fightback for the Chargers with an off-the-block hit before committing a costly service error that put High Speed Hitters at match point, 24-19.

A 3-0 run gave Akari some semblance of life, but Palomata got back on her feet and denied Genesis at the net to seal the win for PLDT.

Meanwhile, Santiago-Manabat was the lone double-digit scorer for Akari with 10 points as Nisperos was held to a five-point outing.

The Chargers joined the Chery Tiggo Crossovers and the Gerflor Defenders in the losing column in Pool A with one each.

Meteor showers to illuminate PH skies in July

BY ELLALYN DE VERA-RUIZ

Jul 2, 2023 10:28 AM

  

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Filipinos may get to see three meteor shower events this month, said the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in its July astronomical diary.

PAGASA said the Piscis Austrinid, Southern δ-Aquariids, and α-Capricornids meteor showers will all be active this month.

The Piscis Austrinid meteor shower will be visible from July 15 to Aug. 10 with its peak on July 29.

“It will be active from the time its radiant, Piscis Austrinus, begins to rise in the southeastern sky at 8:47 p.m. until before sunrise, producing an average of five meteors per hour,” PAGASA said.

“The number of visible meteors increases as the radiant rises to its highest point in the sky around 2 a.m.,” it added.

The southern sky on July 29, 2023, at 2 a.m., during the peak of the Piscis Austrinids when the shower’s radiant represented by the solid green circle is most prominent in the sky. (PAGASA) 

However, it pointed out that the waxing gibbous Moon may cause substantial interference in the observation of this meteor shower event.

Meanwhile, PAGASA said the Southern δ-Aquariids meteor shower will be active from July 12 to Aug. 23 with its peak activity on July 30.

It is anticipated to produce 25 meteors per hour. 

The α-Capricornids will also be active from July 3 to Aug. 15, with its peak activity on July 30, PAGASA said.

Five meteors are expected to be produced every hour.

“Both of these meteor showers (Southern δ-Aquariids and α-Capricornids) can be found in the southeastern sky, and are likely to produce their best displays around 2 a.m. when their radiant point is highest in the sky,” PAGASA said.

Of families, friends, and reunions

The importance of reconnections

BY DEEDEE SIYTANGCO

Jul 2, 2023 00:25 AM

  

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Angel Thoughts

This is a tense week for some of us the Mayon volcano watchers (my beloved was a Bicolano, that's why I love the province) and the activities of the perfect cone-shape natural wonder is worrisome. But we can only hope she will not blow, at least, anytime soon.

Another worry is Taal volcano in Tagaytay which is visible from my home on the ridge, as it is puffing out plumes of smoke, PhiVolcs says. Let us pray for a ceasefire from both volcanoes!

Now, our take on the new Tourism slogan for the country. “Love the Philippines” from Its more fun in the Philippines. Sounds like a logical cry of approval from tourists, right? After experiencing our beautiful beaches, waterfalls, islands, delicious food, friendly natives, historical churches and landmarks, our native culture, and fantastic scenery, this is the only conclusion for our country.

Love the Philippines—Approved!

From top left: Novic and Candy Dela Cruz, Jon Basco, Anna Abola, Junie Siytangco, Jennifer Ligones, Cynthia Simolde, Melai Feliciano, Rachel Ong, Anne Marie Abao, and KitKat Diestro; Next row from left: Carlo Malana and Marc Galido; not in photo: Eio Abola

These last days have also been hectic for our family as my eldest son, Ramon Amado, or Junie, came home from Vancouver to be with his lucky mom. He came in time to bring me down to the operating room with his sister Sandee, and helped me in being discharged from the hospital two days later. The paperwork and protocols are, as any former patient can tell you, horrific, but then again what a relief after all that hassle.  Whatever, it is such a relief to be home!

Our balikbayan, Junie, has been caught up in a happy whirlwind of reunions with friends, classmates, and relatives. His wife, Coralyn was here earlier than he and they just switched places after she went home to Vancouver.

DLSU (De La Salle University) Volleyball Alumni Men's and Women's Team 1986 to 1990 Reunion at XO 46 Century Mall. One of the reunions, Junie was with his former co-players of De La Salle University (DLSU) men's and women's volleyball teams. The group which remains very close to this day since their university playing days keep in touch with each other and always jumps at the opportunity to gather and catch up. And they enjoyed the food at XO 46 restaurant in Estancia mall. In between stories of past adventures and news of what has happened since they last met it was all fun talk, jokes and light banter. It went on until the mall had to close and still the group didn't want the night to end, they moved to a nearby bistro and deli to continue to be able to catch up and wait for others still to join them like Eio Abola and carried on until the bistro also had to close down. It was a most enjoyable night as friends who are family seem to be able to pick up where they left off even after a long time apart.

Some of Junie's co-players and classmates were familiar faces in our home in Paco, so it was a joy to see my son reconnect with them. Then our family got together with aunties and cousins from the Munson side at a sprawling venue like XO for a whole day of fun. The younger kids went swimming and the older ones sat around and had fun keeping up to date with their blood relatives. We had special guests Dr. Mina T Gabor, who is practically a family member already.

Also with us was Vancouver-based Edna Corrales and her granddaughter Zion Nelson, 23-year old star athlete and member of the PATAFA. More on this amazing athlete with three several degrees and M.As in a later column.

Zion swooned over the special “turon” prepared by Chef Tanya Dizon, banana- wrapped and sweetened with special sauce. She also approved “bibingkang malagkit” from Coralyn Barte's mom. Thanks, cumadre!

The clan spent a happy restful day, happy with the delicious food served non-stop, the sounds of the happy youngsters in the pool area, and the chatter of the tri-generatio guests around the sprawling sofas.

Symphony of Threads: Lucell Larawan's Captivating Fusion of Hybrid Painting and String Art

Lucell Larawan Independent Copywriter Marketer/Visual Artist

In the vast realm of art, where creativity knows no bounds, a remarkable talent has emerged, captivating the attention of collectors, curators, enthusiasts, and connoisseurs. Today, we embark on a journey into the captivating world of Lucell Larawan, an artist whose extraordinary masterpieces transcend borders and captivate the imagination of art aficionados. 

A Visionary Artist

In the realm of artistic expression, Larawan stands as a visionary whose creations reflect a profound exploration of self and the world around him. With each painting, he renders a mesmerizing hybrid approach, incorporating geometric shapes, dots, and curves that fill every empty space. His art is a testament to his ability to seamlessly blend different elements, creating a harmonious fusion of form and concept. 

A Journey to Self-Expression

Larawan's art career has been marked by a relentless pursuit of self-expression and the desire to break free from the confines of societal expectations. Through his captivating paintings, he unleashes a world of intricate textures and multidimensional experiences. Each piece serves as a gateway to his unique perspective, inviting viewers to explore the depths of their own emotions and perceptions. 

Evolution of Artistry

Throughout his artistic journey, Larawan has continuously pushed the boundaries of his craft, refusing to settle for the ordinary. His paintings reveal a progressive evolution, with his earlier works showcasing hints of geometric shapes, dots, and curves that have now become signature elements of his distinct style. As his artistry evolves, he fearlessly embraces a new technique incorporating Cannon mercerized cotton string, ensuring that his recent creation is a testament to his growth and artistic exploration. 

Symbolism and Depth

In each meticulously crafted piece, Larawan weaves a tapestry of symbolism and meaning. The strategic placement of geometric shapes, dots, and curves creates a visual language that transcends traditional boundaries. Furthermore, the incorporation of string art, with strings crisscrossing through nails at the fringes of the painting, adds an intricate texture and a three-dimensional element that evokes a sense of depth and wonder. Through his art, Larawan invites viewers to ponder the interplay between structure and freedom, the complexities of existence, and the interconnectedness of our world.

A Wider Impact

While rooted in his personal experiences, Lucell Larawan's art transcends cultural boundaries and resonates with wide audiences. His captivating fusion of geometric artistry, infused with dots, curves, and string art, has garnered international acclaim, positioning him as a rising star. Collectors from some parts of the world eagerly seek to add a piece of Larawan's dynamic and thought-provoking art to their collections. 

A Moment of Recognition

In recognition of his exceptional talent, Larawan has recently been selected for an exclusive interview in a renowned international art magazine. This prestigious opportunity further solidifies his position as an artist of influence and creativity. The interview delves into the depths of his artistic process, shedding light on the inspiration and vision behind his captivating fusion of painting and string art. 

The Vision Unveiled

Today, we have the privilege of witnessing Larawan's artistic vision come to life. Each painting is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to transport viewers to a realm where structure and imagination converge. As we stand in awe of his masterpieces, we are reminded of the transformative power of art—a power that unites us, challenges us, and offers a glimpse into the boundless realms of human creativity. 

A Journey Continues

As Larawan continues to shape his artistic legacy, his vision expands beyond the confines of the canvas. With each new creation, he invites us to question our perceptions, to embrace the beauty of intricate details, and to explore the depths of artistic possibilities. The limner’s unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and forging new artistic paths promises a future filled with even more extraordinary works, destined to leave an indelible mark on the art world. 

In the realm of art, few names shine like Lucell Larawan. Through his captivating fusion, incorporating hints of geometric shapes, dots, curves, and mesmerizing string art, he has become a force to be reckoned with in the international art scene. With collectors, curators, enthusiasts, and connoisseurs eagerly awaiting his next creation, Lucell Larawan continues to transcend boundaries, inviting us all to embark on an artistic journey that is as captivating as it is transformative.

Lucell Larawan, an acclaimed Filipino artist, has received prestigious recognition for his work. He secured two finalist awards at the International Artist Grand Prize Championship (Art Revolution Taipei) in Taiwan and earned semi-finalist accolades at the national Metrobank Art and Design Excellence. Larawan has held seven solo exhibits at various museums and galleries of the Philippines, with his latest solo show supported by a grant from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Gallery program. He has participated in group shows in Taiwan and the Philippines, while also contributing to indigenous art festivals as a trainer, curator, and hosting partner. His works have been reviewed by regional newspapers and featured in a high school book. Larawan's scholarly articles on art criticism and business have been published in international and local peer-reviewed journals, supported by universities and a grant from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). Currently, he serves as the chairman of the Committee on Visual Arts for the Bohol Art and Cultural Heritage council.

“Portal to my dreams”; acrylic on canvas, mercerized cotton string, and boat nails; 2.5 x 2.5 ft., 2021

“Melodies for biodiversity 2”; acrylic on canvas, mercerized cotton string, and boat nails; 1.9 x 1.6 ft., 2023

“Sow a prayer 2”; acrylic on canvas, mercerized cotton string, and boat nails; 4 x 3 ft., 2022

“Farm house series 3”; acrylic on canvas, mercerized cotton string, and boat nails; 4 x 3 ft., 2021

 

“Dream of paradise, series 1”, acrylic on canvas, mercerized cotton string, and boat nails; 2 x 2 ft, 2021