Loading Spinner

Rodel Tapaya Sold at Auction Prices

b. 1980 -

See Artist Details

0 Lots

Sort By:

Categories

          Auction Date

          Seller

          Seller Location

          Price Range

          to
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Maria
            Sep. 14, 2024

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Maria

            Est: ₱1,300,000 - ₱1,500,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Signed and dated '2015' (lower right) Acrylic on burlap 122 x 91.4 cm (48 x 36 in) Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity signed by the artist

            Salcedo Auctions
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - One Man's Trash is Another Man's Treasure
            Sep. 14, 2024

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - One Man's Trash is Another Man's Treasure

            Est: ₱3,800,000 - ₱4,300,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Signed and dated '2019' (lower right) Acrylic on canvas 243.6 x 182.4 cm (96 x 72 in) An Art Informal label is affixed to the back of the frame Literature: On The Benefits of a Crowded Space, Artinformal, 2019, p. 9 Exhibition: On The Benefits of a Crowded Space, 14 September - 12 October 2019, Art Informal, Makati City

            Salcedo Auctions
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - The Caretaker
            Sep. 14, 2024

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - The Caretaker

            Est: ₱3,800,000 - ₱4,300,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Signed and dated '2014' (lower left) Acrylic on canvas 152.5 x 122 cm (60 x 48 in) Literature: Rodel Tapaya, Distanz, 2015, p. 35 Exhibition: Bazaar Art Jakarta, 18 - 20 July 2014, The Ritz Carlton, Jakarta Rodel Tapaya is acclaimed for his dramatic synthesis of folk narratives and mythologies with contemporary themes. His monumental works, while expansive in scale, exhibit meticulous detail and a vibrant, intricate visual language that captivates and engages viewers. Tapaya's art revitalizes ancient Filipino stories, transforming them into potent allegories that address modern social issues. 'The Caretaker' exemplifies Tapaya's remarkable ability to animate indigenous Filipino creation myths on a grand scale. This piece explores the ancient tale of Bathala, Galang Kaluluwa (Wandering Spirit), and Ulilang Kalulawa (Orphaned Spirit). The myth recounts that, following Galang Kaluluwa's defeat by Ulilang Kalulawa, a coconut tree--symbolizing the tree of life--sprouts from the ground where he fell. This tree, providing nourishing fruit, life-sustaining water, and versatile materials, becomes vital to the survival of the humans created by Bathala. Tapaya's depiction of this myth not only conveys the narrative's grandeur but also captures its intricate details. The lush patterns and colors characteristic of his work draw viewers into the scene, encouraging exploration of the deeper connections between myth, culture, and identity. The Caretaker serves as a visually compelling narrative, offering a contemporary interpretation of a timeless story that remains relevant to modern audiences. Through this piece, Tapaya underscores the enduring significance of myth in shaping our understanding of history, memory, and cultural identity. Reference: Rodel Tapaya, Distanz, 2015

            Salcedo Auctions
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Kabigat Visits The Earthworld
            Jun. 08, 2024

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Kabigat Visits The Earthworld

            Est: ₱1,000,000 - ₱1,300,000

            Kabigat Visits The Earthworld signed and dated 2009 (lower left) acrylic on canvas 76" x 60" (193 cm x 152 cm) PROVENANCE: Private collection, Manila A Blessing From the Skyworld Rodel Tapaya on an Ifugao Creation Story Whether about martyrs or monsters, myths and legends are always weaved into masterpieces by Filipino contemporary artist Rodel Tapaya. Delving into a vast array of subjects, from mythical creatures to deities and legendary heroes, Tapaya skillfully intertwines elements from our rich pre-colonial heritage to works that breathe new life into stories of old. Though Tapaya’s artistic practice is not limited local folklore given that he has produced works that draw from the Greek pantheon and Southeast Asian mythologies, one can argue that it is his works that draw from Filipino legends, specifically those obscured by time, that add substantially to the aesthetic discourse that he has started. In this piece, Tapaya draws from Ifugao folklore, specifically from their set of creation myths. For the ancient and precolonial Kiangan Ifugao, the universe is divided into layers, each one facing each other, and each layer corresponding to a specific way of being. The layer that humans populated is called Lúta or Earth World. While the ones above were referred to as Dáya or Sky World, and the ones below were called Dálom or Underworld. This work by Tapaya showcases one of the first events in the Kiangan Ifugao creation story; the formation of the mountains. Here we see the god Kabigát visits Earth from the sky realm and notices it appears flat because he can't hear his dogs' barking echoing. He then brings a cloth and seals the exits of the waters of the rivers to the sea. A series of events involving other deities causes it to rain on the Earth World causing floods. In an attempt to combat the flooding Kabigát removes the blockade, resulting in the formation of mountains and valleys as the floodwaters recede. By depicting an often overlooked aspect of local folklore, Tapaya breathes in new life into not only an interesting narrative, but also allows audiences to enjoy, appreciate, and understand through a new medium as well. (Jed Daya)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Untitled
            Jun. 08, 2024

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Untitled

            Est: ₱200,000 - ₱260,000

            Untitled signed and dated 2006 (lower left) acrylic on burlap 15" x 12" (38 cm x 30 cm) In contrast to the mythical works Filipino artist Rodel Tapaya is now known for, his earlier works take a much more grounded albeit surreal aspect to them. In these early pieces, there is a hint of hybridity, blending elements of Filipino rural life with otherworldly in a way that seemingly muses probable co-existence between the two. Tapaya's mastery lies in his ability to infuse his paintings with rich, earthy colors and intricate patterning, bringing his subjects to life with stimulating details. His keen observation of everyday life is evident in the gimlet-eyed features of his characters and the wry humor that pervades his work. At the heart of Tapaya's work is his mastery of color. He understands the power of color to evoke emotion, set the scene, and breathe life into his characters. It is this attention to detail and his ability to create vivid, immersive worlds that make Tapaya's art singular and unique. (Jed Daya)

            Leon Gallery
          • RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) Untitled acrylic on canvas 199 x 169 cm. (78 3⁄8 x 6
            May. 29, 2024

            RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) Untitled acrylic on canvas 199 x 169 cm. (78 3⁄8 x 6

            Est: $240,000 - $350,000

            RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) Untitled acrylic on canvas 199 x 169 cm. (78 3⁄8 x 66 1⁄2 in.)

            Christie's
          • Creation of the Bat | 蝙蝠的創造
            Dec. 08, 2023

            Creation of the Bat | 蝙蝠的創造

            Est: $180,000 - $280,000

            Rodel Tapaya b. 1980 Creation of the Bat oil on canvas  signed and dated 2011  151.7 by 121.1 cm. 59¾ by 47⅝ in. ---------------------------------------------- 羅德爾 · 塔帕雅 1980年生 蝙蝠的創造 油畫畫布 2011年作 款識 Tapaya,2011 151.7 x 121.1 公分, 59¾ x 47⅝ 英寸

            Sotheby's
          • RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) - Amulet
            Nov. 29, 2023

            RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) - Amulet

            Est: $220,000 - $320,000

            RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) Amulet acrylic on canvas 193 x 152.3 cm. (76 x 60 in.)

            Christie's
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)
            Oct. 21, 2023

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)

            Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000

            The Generous Man signed and dated 2019 (lower right) print 65/75 11” x 9 1/4” (28 cm x 23 cm)

            Leon Gallery
          • Creation of the Bat | 蝙蝠的創造
            Sep. 12, 2023

            Creation of the Bat | 蝙蝠的創造

            Est: $180,000 - $280,000

            Rodel Tapaya b. 1980 Creation of the Bat oil on canvas  signed and dated 2011  151.7 by 121.1 cm. 59¾ by 47⅝ in. ---------------------------------------------- 羅德爾 · 塔帕雅 1980年生 蝙蝠的創造 油畫畫布 2011年作 款識 Tapaya,2011 151.7 x 121.1 公分, 59¾ x 47⅝ 英寸

            Sotheby's
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)
            Jul. 29, 2023

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)

            Est: ₱120,000 - ₱156,000

            Spark signed and dated 2022 (lower left) acrylic on paper 30” x 22” (76 cm x 56 cm)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)
            Jun. 17, 2023

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)

            Est: ₱400,000 - ₱520,000

            Ang Taong Gagamba signed and dated 2007 (lower right and verso) acrylic on burlap 36" x 36" (91 cm x 91 cm) Accompanied by a certificate signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot Tapaya's artistic practice is deeply rooted in storytelling. He skillfully weaves together mythological elements, historical events, and personal experiences to create visually compelling narratives. His paintings often feature a dense interplay of characters, symbols, and motifs, inviting viewers into a world where reality and fantasy coexist. Tapaya's use of traditional Filipino iconography is a defining aspect of his art. He draws inspiration from pre-colonial indigenous cultures, infusing his works with ancestral beliefs, rituals, and folklore. The imagery of mythical creatures, such as the sarimanok and tikbalang, frequently appears in his paintings, adding a sense of enchantment and mystery. This piece titled Taong Gagamba is emblematic of Tapaya’s use of mythological elements to critique contemporary society. Here we see the artist’s rendering of a mythical creature interwoven with modern symbols and images. In doing so, Tapaya effectively situates not only his works but the use of myths and stories into a much more recent context. (J.D.)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)
            Jun. 17, 2023

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)

            Est: ₱500,000 - ₱650,000

            Maria signed and dated 2016 (lower right) acrylic on burlap 48" x 36" (122 cm x 91 cm) PROVENANCE Acquired directly from the artist by the present owner Tapaya's artworks are characterized by their narrative depth and allegorical storytelling. Each piece is a visual tale, inviting viewers to delve into multiple layers of meaning. His compositions often feature a central protagonist surrounded by a multitude of symbolic elements that represent different facets of the narrative. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Tapaya's artworks carry profound social and political commentaries. He addresses issues such as the plight of marginalized communities, environmental degradation, and the erosion of traditional knowledge. By intertwining these topics with folklore and mythology, Tapaya brings attention to the urgency of these issues while reminding us of the timeless wisdom embedded in ancient stories. Tapaya’s piece titled Maria can be seen as an examination of the usual image of the Filipina identity. Often referred to as Maria Clara, the idealized Filipina beauty features long black hair, a demure smile, and a relatively neutral if not passive demeanor. This image of passivity is critiqued in this work of Tapaya’s which deconstructs and examines this cultural construct through subversive and contrasting symbols. (J.D.)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Untitled
            Apr. 22, 2023

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Untitled

            Est: ₱100,000 - ₱130,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Untitled mixed media on wood 7” x 5 1/2” (18 cm x 14 cm) each Each piece is accompanied by a certificate signed by theartist confirming the authenticity of this lot

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Untitled
            Apr. 22, 2023

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Untitled

            Est: ₱20,000 - ₱26,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Untitled signed and dated 2006 (lower left) watercolor on paper 25” x 19” (64 cm x 48 cm)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)
            Feb. 18, 2023

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)

            Est: ₱2,400,000 - ₱3,120,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) The Generous Man signed and dated 2019 (lower right) acrylic on canvas 96" x 72" (244 cm x 181 cm) EXHIBITED ROH Gallery, Jakarta Throughout the history and evolution of art, the term has taken on many faces and phases; shifting in accordance with the spirit of each age. Despite this, each definition of art is arguably tethered to a common thread. That is, no matter how art is defined, it is always scrutinized against the context of our relationship with it. For the Ancient Greeks, art was synonymous with beauty, wherein a thing is seen as a great work of art if it closely resembles and reflects that which is beautiful. Wherein the concept of beauty is defined as, according to the Platonic Forms, the highest Form of Beauty; a concept that is rooted in the spiritual and the metaphysical and thus virtually unattainable through physical vestiges. But that does not mean one should not strive towards artistic paramount. For Plato and the philosophers that adhered to his ideas, art in the physical realm should work towards Beauty, because by introducing individuals to such things that reflect the different aspects of Beauty can these individuals begin to understand not only the essence of Beauty, but also the essence of what is truly and rightly Good. Eventually, Modern thinkers would begin to contemplate the role and use of art against the backdrop of the different revolutions in science and technology. But given that our definitions of art have since diversified, we’ve also seemingly shifted our approach to it; namely we are no longer concerned with finding art in the universal, but also in the local as well. Such an approach can be seen as the core of Filipino artist Rodel Tapaya’s artistic practice. As an artist, Tapaya’s works seemingly revolve around the different myths and narratives of the Philippines as well as its adjacent regions. Such stories do not only tap into the rich culture and history of the region, but also acts as a practice of discovery and reclamation of narratives that were seemingly lost given the effects of colonization and globalization. But Tapaya’s works do not only gaze upon our past, but are also deeply entrenched in the present. His works act as reminders of how our current situation is rooted in how our histories have played out. They are, in effect, works that tell particular stories about specific phenomena, but still manage to find a common thread that makes all of us human. (J.D.)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)
            Jan. 21, 2023

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)

            Est: ₱180,000 - ₱234,000

            Memory signed and dated 2017 (lower right) acrylic on paper 33” x 25 1/2” (84 cm x 65 cm) Accompanied by a certificate signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)
            Jan. 21, 2023

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)

            Est: ₱50,000 - ₱65,000

            Untitled mixed media on wood 7” x 5 1/2” (18 cm x 14 cm)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)
            Oct. 22, 2022

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)

            Est: ₱200,000 - ₱260,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) A Windy Day and A Swirl signed and dated 2010 (lower left) acrylic on canvas 48” x 36” (122 cm x 91 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by The Drawing Room and signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot LITERATURE Arndt, Matthias, ed. Rodel Tapaya. Berlin: DISTANZ Verlag, 2015. Full-color illustration and photo caption on page 108 EXHIBITED The Drawing Room, Memory Landscapes, Makati City, May 14 - June 14, 2010

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Dalagang Filipina
            Sep. 10, 2022

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Dalagang Filipina

            Est: ₱500,000 - ₱650,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Dalagang Filipina signed and dated 2011 (lower left) acrylic on canvas 48" x 36" (122 cm x 91 cm) The ardent nature of an artist to tell stories is present in the oeuvres of Rodel Tapaya. Aplenty of narratives and anecdotes are found in his paintings, assimilating themes ranging from folklore to social realities — all embedded in Filipino cultural history. The characters that appear in his mythical world all possess an allegorical significance, reanimating them into integral aspects of his tale-totell. Furthermore, his imagery is always predicted by native lore, which eventually intersects with society’s present concerns. His pieces, thus, are a reflection and commentary on the tribulations of his country. This 2011 Tapaya painting titled Dalagang Filipina portrays a woman singing while cooking. It is a superstition in the Philippines that a female, who has never been married, should not sing as she cooks because it will make her a maiden for the rest of her life. Another belief is the said act will curse the woman to marry an older husband. At the back of the subject is a figure of an old person sitting in a wheelchair, perhaps indicating a premonition of her fate. (P.I.R.)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Untitled
            Sep. 10, 2022

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Untitled

            Est: ₱160,000 - ₱208,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Untitled dated 2003 mixed media on wood 7" x 5 1/2" (18 cm x 14 cm) each overall: 10 1/4" x 30 1/2" (26 cm x 77 cm) Each piece is accompanied by a certificate signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot Rodel Tapaya, a well-regarded prolific painter in Southeast Asia, continues to push the boundaries of his art by emulating age-old narratives with a contemporary flair. His style is noted for its motifs rooted in Filipino cultural history as well as sharp and often piercing commentary on day-to-day life and issues. As for this early Tapaya piece, however, none of his iconic adept manipulation of folk aesthetic and material is present. His trademark labyrinthine patterns and characters that transmit scenes and figures from mythologies are missing. Also absent are his signature scenes scented with the air of a fairy tale. This 2003 abstract artwork reflects a time when the Filipino visual artist explored a minimalist ‘tabula rasa’ mode, a variance from his usual subjects and bold colors. (P.I.R.)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya - Sunny Day
            Sep. 10, 2022

            Rodel Tapaya - Sunny Day

            Est: ₱200,000 - ₱260,000

            Rodel Tapaya Sunny Day signed and dated 2018 (lower left) acrylic on paper 30" x 22" (76 cm x 56 cm) Accompanied by a certificate signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot Rodel Tapaya is most notable for his allegorical oeuvres laden with symbols and references from folk, myths, and legends. Just as well, his other abstract works similar to this 2018 painting showcases his talent in a unique light. Set in a modern world, a breath of fresh air from most of Tapaya’s iconic folk-inspired settings, a woman sits under the shadow of an umbrella, washing her laundry, unaware of the space she is in. Occupied with her mundane chore, she is oblivious to the fact that beyond her box is a surreal universe absent of perceptible concepts. In its own way, the piece serves as a reminder to see the wonders in our day-to-day reality. (P.I.R.)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)
            Jun. 11, 2022

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)

            Est: ₱200,000 - ₱260,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Untitled signed and dated 2006 (lower right) acrylic on burlap 10" x 10" (25 cm x 25 cm) Accompanied by a certificate signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot The works of Rodel Tapaya can be viewed as tableaus to introspectively examine the stories of human culture. His canvases are decorated with great stylistic literacy, exhibiting a uniquely Filipino element in his paintings that often portray rich narratives of historical, mythological, folkloric, or contemporary themes. Though most of his creations depict the supernatural, the fine artist had also done a series of portraits that featured a more ‘real’ cast of persons from his neighborhood during the early period of his career. Named as one of the most active artists in Southeast Asia, Tapaya had his works exhibited locally and internationally. He was also among the Thirteen Artists Award of the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 2012, a prestigious government award for Filipino visual artists. (P.I.R.)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)
            Jun. 11, 2022

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)

            Est: ₱200,000 - ₱260,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Shame signed and dated 2015 (lower right) acrylic on paper 25 1/4" x 19 1/2" (64 cm x 50 cm) Accompanied by a certificate signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot With artworks that are immensely evocative, Rodel Tapaya is without limits when it comes to combining artistic elements to create a narrative. As an artist, he is fascinated by folktales and myths, exploring this through multifarious aspects as he experiments on folk aesthetics and materials to create his personal visual language. In this 2015 piece titled Shame, the contemporary artist paints with his visual language to portray the emotion of shame on the man’s face. A Tapaya piece stands out from the rest with the aid of his masterful use of native mythologies and legends as a means of analyzing the often hazy and harsh realities of life. His works are a combination of various aspects of everyday life painted into one seamless tapestry. Starting with a rough sketch, the fine artist adds fresh touches after reading more stories, morphing his painting into something new as his ideas move around. According to the book titled Rodel Tapaya, there was a time when the Filipino artist felt entrapped within the dense jungles of his own creation. He wished to "loosen" his paintings so that "more fluid and dark themes" might be explored. For a while, he veered away from myth and folklore in favor of a more expressionist palette with monochromatic, mainly gray figures. Tapaya once said that reading folk stories and mythologies makes his imagination explode with images. Since the narratives do not have an actual archetype or image, he was free to imagine and give the characters its own forms. “I find this very exciting,” he said. (P.I.R.)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)
            Jun. 11, 2022

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)

            Est: ₱600,000 - ₱780,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Ang Taong Kokak signed and dated 2007 (lower right and verso) acrylic on burlap 40" x 30" (102 cm x 76 cm) If one were to name a living spiritual successor to the timeless works of the Muralist masters such as Diego Rivera, David Alfaro, and Jose Clemente Orozco, the acclaimed artist Rodel Tapaya would be the obvious, if not undeniable, choice. Much like the works of the muralists, Tapaya’s works are often breathtakingly epic and charged with idealistic energy. His works are inspired by the fascinating pantheon of pre-colonial mythology and Filipino folkloric culture. He uses these elements to tie together seeming variegated pictorial fragments in order to create imaginative and expressive worlds that are seemingly aglow with life. Though his works hint at some sort of narrative cohesion, they read much more like a poem or a sonnet rather than a short story or an epic in the traditional sense. Tapaya’s narratives do not contain a clear beginning, middle, or end. Instead, Tapaya offers us a sweeping tableau that hints at a larger story at work. The artist does not spoonfeed us with content, he allows us to create our own meaning within the context of his narrative hints. Tapaya’s works are also a masterclass in technique, form, and design. Despite being known for using a plethora of images and symbolisms, Tapaya’s works never feel cramped or condensed. His eye for detail and impeccable craftsmanship constantly weighs in the correct amount of space and use of color in order to maximize each element’s expressive possibility. It is no surprise that Tapaya is one of the Philippines’ greatest artistic exports. With groundbreaking exhibitions and record sales both here and abroad, Tapaya’s legacy is undoubtedly a milestone of Filipino art and craftsmanship. (J. D.)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya 羅德爾 · 塔帕雅 - The First Bird 第一隻鳥
            Apr. 28, 2022

            Rodel Tapaya 羅德爾 · 塔帕雅 - The First Bird 第一隻鳥

            Est: $200,000 - $400,000

            Rodel Tapaya b. 1980 The First Bird oil on canvas signed and dated 06/08; signed, titled and dated 2008 on the reverse 192.5 by 152.5 cm.  75¾ by 60 in. ---------------------------------------------- 羅德爾 · 塔帕雅 1980年生 第一隻鳥 油畫畫布 2008年作 款識 藝術家簽名,06/08 Rodel Tapaya,2008,《The First Bird》(作品背面) 192.5 x 152.5 公分,75¾ x 60 英寸

            Sotheby's
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - White Tikbalang
            Mar. 05, 2022

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - White Tikbalang

            Est: ₱140,000 - ₱182,000

            White Tikbalang signed and dated 2009 mixed media 23 1/2" x 15" x 11" (60 cm x 38 cm x 28 cm) * This lot is sold to benefit the Asian Cultural Council Often considered as one of the most active and acclaimed artists in the Southeast Asian region, Filipino visual artist Rodel Tapaya continues to push the boundaries of his own art by reshaping age-old narratives with a contemporary flair. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Santo Tomas and then pursued further studies at the Parsons School of Design in New York and the University of Helsinki in Finland. As an artist, Tapaya is primarily concerned with the narrative potential of art, especially when it comes to contemporary social and cultural issues. His works often weave together different facets of everyday life into one cohesive tapestry. But, what separates Tapaya from the rest is his masterful use of local mythologies and legends as a way of exploring the often vague and unrelenting reality of contemporary life. He explores this through his multifaceted elements, and experiments on folk aesthetics and material to develop his own distinct visual language.

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Head Above Water
            Mar. 05, 2022

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Head Above Water

            Est: ₱1,200,000 - ₱1,560,000

            Head Above Water signed and dated 2019 (lower left) acrylic on canvas 60" x 48" (152 cm x 122 cm) Provenance: Pinto Art Museum Tapaya’s paintings recurrently depict narratives embedded in Filipino cultural history that offer sharp and often piercing commentary on contemporary life and issues. Through his adept manipulation of folk aesthetic and material, Tapaya provides his mythical characters with allegorical significance that transcend common perception, offering fresh insights about their origins and relevance. Tapaya’s imagery is always predicated by native myths, which eventually intersects with society’s present concerns. His works reflect the tribulations of his country; he is, first and foremost, a connoisseur of tales, possessing a keen eye for stories and narratives. Be it carried from generation to generation via oral tradition or written down in epic poems, Rodel Tapaya finds a way to revitalize the narratives in his canvases. As all great storytellers do, he draws connections between the imagined and the real, history and the present day, and myth and current events. His artistry is one of the few bearers of Filipino folklore and legends able to cross the boundaries into the universal, being abundant in both meaning and imagination, and validating a vibrant and worthwhile return to the power of allegory in painting. As his paintings drift between figuration and abstraction, his works show nature and culture in a playful relationship with our technical world.

            Leon Gallery
          • GGM
            Jan. 28, 2022

            GGM

            Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) GGM hand signed (lower right) print, 26/75 12 1/2” x 10 1/2” (32 cm x 27 cm)

            Leon Gallery
          • Geraldine Javier
            Jan. 28, 2022

            Geraldine Javier

            Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000

            Geraldine Javier Post-Apocalyptic Fashion (Summer Collection) hand signed (lower left) print, 26/75 10 1/2” x 12” (27 cm x 30 cm)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) A Windy Day and a Swirl
            Dec. 04, 2021

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) A Windy Day and a Swirl

            Est: ₱700,000 - ₱910,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) A Windy Day and a Swirl signed and dated 2010 (lower left) acrylic on canvas 48" x 36" (122 cm x 91 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by The Drawing Room Contemporary Art and signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot EXHIBITED: The Drawing Room, Memory Landscapes, Makati City, May 14 - June 14, 2010 LITERATURE: Elliott, David et al. Rodel Tapaya. DISTANZ Verlag. Berlin. 2015. p. 108 From a raconteur that brings oral traditions to life, Rodel Tapaya has turned into a chronicler of countryside vistas in his A Windy Day and A Swirl as part of his Memory Landscapes exhibition. Tapaya moved away from his narrations of forgotten Philippine folk tales where he usually regales the viewers with fantastic creatures that people his narratives, this time, the viewers served as witnesses to the panorama that surrounds the artist’s Bulacan home. Tapaya’s figure flits through the painting like a ghostly apparition, like the misty shadows that dart through the viewer's consciousness as if we are in a dream. He painted the figure in hazy, blurry clumps of mostly white and gray, looking like pasted paper cutouts that belong to a different plane, but somehow blend into the landscape. Tapaya brought another facet to his creative works, an exciting iteration that drags us to come closer and scrutinizes the details indiscernible from the figure to the brushwork.

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) The Attraction
            Dec. 04, 2021

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) The Attraction

            Est: ₱1,000,000 - ₱1,300,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) The Attraction signed and dated 2013 (lower left) acrylic on canvas, framed with engraved tin sheet 66" x 54" (168 cm x 137 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by Arndt Berlin and signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot EXHIBITED: Ateneo Art Gallery, Bato-Balani, Quezon City, January 21 - April 30, 2014 LITERATURE: Elliott, David et al. Rodel Tapaya. DISTANZ Verlag. Berlin. 2015. p. 52 Often considered as one of the most active and acclaimed artists in the Southeast Asian region, Filipino visual artist Rodel Tapaya continues to push the boundaries of his own art by reshaping age-old narratives with a contemporary flair. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Santo Tomas and then pursued further studies at the Parsons School of Design in New York and the University of Helsinki in Finland. As an artist, Tapaya is primarily concerned with the narrative potential of art, especially when it comes to contemporary social and cultural issues. His works often weave together different facets of everyday life into one cohesive tapestry. But, what separates Tapaya from the rest is his masterful use of local mythologies and legends as a way of exploring the often vague and unrelenting reality of contemporary life. He explores this through his multifaceted elements, and experiments on folk aesthetics and material to develop his own distinct visual language. This particular piece titled The Attraction seemingly plays with the natural process of attraction and mating. Yet, Tapaya’s unique visual language transforms a simple act of nature into an exploration of attraction and love as not merely a chemical process, but one imbued deeply within our soul.

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya(b. 1980) Origin of Echo
            Sep. 11, 2021

            Rodel Tapaya(b. 1980) Origin of Echo

            Est: ₱1,800,000 - ₱2,340,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Origin of Echo signed and dated 2008 (lower left) acrylic on canvas 76" x 60" (193 cm x 152 cm) P 1,800,000 Literature Elliott, David et. al. Rodel Tapaya. DISTANZ Verlag. Berlin. 2015. p. 137. exhibited The Drawing Room, FOLKgotten, Makati City, 2008.   Myths, magic, and monsters—these three are commonplace in the strikingly original and unparalleled masterpieces of visual artist Rodel Tapaya. From fairies to gods, and heroes to animals, Tapaya draws from the long and rich history of our pre-colonial past in order to stunning oeuvres. In the work at hand, he illustrates the Greek myth of the nymph Echo — who would distract Zeus’ wife Hera with long conversations in order to prevent her discovery of his infidelities. Hera, here portrayed as a rather desperate housewife in a printed pinafore, punishes her with the curse of being unable to talk except for repeating the last few words she would hear. Tapaya paints her amusingly as an echo of herself, a loudmouth bursting from a dotted open mouth. A wolf and a bird seem to be eavesdropping on the drama. Yet, Tapaya’s works are more than just a celebration and revival of an often forgotten part of culture. They are original and unique in their own right, effectively creating a novel mythos that connects our storied past with our present condition. Through his adept manipulation of folk aesthetic and material, Tapaya provides his mythical characters with allegorical significance that transcend common perception, offering fresh insights about their origins and relevance. The paintings become a tableau of the painter’s articulations and traces of the stories that inspired them. Tapaya remains a favorite among Southeast Asian artists, collectors and critics. The far-reaching appreciation of his works has been part of the wave that gained more attention for Southeast Asian contemporary art in recent years He is widely exhibited in cities in the Southeast Asian region as well as in Beijing, Berlin, New York, and Tokyo.    

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Untitled (Orange Cat)
            Jul. 16, 2021

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Untitled (Orange Cat)

            Est: ₱50,000 - ₱65,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Untitled (Orange Cat) signed and dated 2006 (lower right) acrylic on paper 16” x 23” (41 cm x 58 cm)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Untitled (Cow)
            Jul. 16, 2021

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Untitled (Cow)

            Est: ₱50,000 - ₱65,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Untitled signed and dated 2006 (upper right) pastel on paper 24” x 18” (61 cm x 46 cm) Provenance: The Drawing Room

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Untitled (Figure with Cane)
            Jul. 16, 2021

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Untitled (Figure with Cane)

            Est: ₱50,000 - ₱65,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Untitled signed and dated 2006 (lower right) acrylic on paper 24” x 18” (61 cm x 46 cm) Provenance: The Drawing Room

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Untitled (Pool)
            Jul. 16, 2021

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Untitled (Pool)

            Est: ₱400,000 - ₱520,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Untitled (Pool) signed and dated 2015 (lower right) pastel on paper 30” x 22” (76 cm x 56 cm)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Diptych (Table Series)
            Jul. 16, 2021

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Diptych (Table Series)

            Est: ₱100,000 - ₱130,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Diptych (Table Series) signed and dated 2004 (lower right) pastel on paper 16” x 22” (41 cm x 56 cm) each

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Red Trench II
            Jul. 16, 2021

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Red Trench II

            Est: ₱100,000 - ₱130,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Red Trench II signed and dated 2004 (lower left) oil and graphite on canvas 17” x 17” (43 cm x 43 cm)

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)
            Jun. 05, 2021

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)

            Est: ₱300,000 - ₱390,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Ladybug signed and dated 2009 (lower left) acrylic on canvas 30” x 40” (76 cm x 102 cm)   As an artist, Rodel Tapaya is primarily interested in the nature of narratives and stories. His works often weave together different facets of everyday life into one cohesive tapestry. But, what separates Tapaya from the rest is his masterful use of local mythologies and legends as a way of exploring the often vague and unrelenting reality of contemporary life. He explores this through his multifaceted elements, and experiments on folk aesthetics and material to develop his own distinct visual language. This enigmatic 2009 piece titled Ladybug showcases Tapaya at his most narratively abstract. Though he often uses mystical and iconic motifs, his more general works feature a mix of common objects and found ephemera. This particular piece features a red vintage hatchback along a relatively straight path that is dotted by an unusual set of trees. Though the piece does not solicit the same immediacy from its viewer as Tapaya’s other works, it exudes a sense of universal sentimentality through its vague demeanor. This allows the viewer to ascribe their own meaning to the work, with Tapaya’s rich handiwork acting merely as an engaging entry point.

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)
            Jun. 05, 2021

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980)

            Est: ₱1,400,000 - ₱1,820,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) The Wise Monkey and the Foolish Giant signed and dated 2008 (lower left) acrylic on canvas 72” x 60” (183 cm x 152 cm) Provenance: Private Colection, Manila Often considered as one of the most active and acclaimed artists in the Southeast Asian region, Filipino visual artist Rodel Tapaya continues to push the boundaries of his own art by reshaping age-old narratives with a contemporary flair. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Santo Tomas and then pursued further studies at the Parsons School of Design in New York and the University of Helsinki in Finland. As an artist, Tapaya is primarily concerned with the narrative potential of art, especially when it comes to contemporary social and cultural issues. His works often weave together different facets of everyday life into one cohesive tapestry. But, what separates Tapaya from the rest is his masterful use of local mythologies and legends as a way of exploring the often vague and unrelenting reality of contemporary life. He explores this through his multifaceted elements, and experiments on folk aesthetics and material to develop his own distinct visual language. In this particular piece titled The Wise Monkey and the Foolish Giant, Tapaya draws inspiration from a popular Southeast Asian myth of the same name. The folktale tells the story of how a small animal, the monkey, outsmarts a much bigger creature despite their differences in physical size and strength. The piece purports this very scene by showing how a group of monkeys have seemingly outwitted the much larger giant; effectively positing the moral that might does not always make right. When viewed within the context of Tapaya’s artistic practice, the scene evolves from a simple lesson about the virtues of the mind, to an engaging critique about power and oppression. The elements in the piece act as a stand-in for real world interactions, effectively communicating a nuanced message about democracy and the power of organized resistance. Tapaya has since created multiple renditions of The Wise Monkey and the Foolish Giant, the most notable one being a mixed media diorama that was featured at the Singapore Art Museum.

            Leon Gallery
          • RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) - Grit; Skeptic; Scream; & Anxiety
            May. 25, 2021

            RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) - Grit; Skeptic; Scream; & Anxiety

            Est: $100,000 - $200,000

            RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) Grit; Skeptic; Scream; & Anxiety four acrylic on paper each: 64 x 49 cm. (25 1/4x 19 1/4 in.) (4)

            Christie's
          • RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) - The Secrets of the Forest
            May. 25, 2021

            RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) - The Secrets of the Forest

            Est: $240,000 - $350,000

            RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) The Secrets of the Forest oil on canvas 180 x 220 cm. (70 7/8 x 86 5/8 in.)

            Christie's
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Repatriated Bodies
            Feb. 27, 2021

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Repatriated Bodies

            Est: ₱4,000,000 - ₱5,200,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) RepatrIated Bodies signed and dated 2014 (lower right) oil on canvas 96” x 132” (244 cm x 335 cm)   Exhibited: Paris, Association France-Amériques, South East Asia Now, Arndt Gallery, 24 October 2014.   The works of the critically acclaimed visual artist Rodel Tapaya feature nuanced and complex scenes and tableaus that weave together various elements from our nation’s storied past, engrossing present, and Tapaya’s own hopes for our future. Ever since his big break at the 2001 Nokia Art Awards, Tapaya has been regarded as one of the most important visual artists in the Southeast Asian region. Tapaya’s imagery is always informed by native myths, which eventually intersects with society’s present concerns. His works reflect the tribulations of his country; he is, first and foremost, a connoisseur of tales, possessing a keen eye for stories and narratives. Be it carried from generation to generation via oral tradition or written down in epic poems, Rodel Tapaya finds a way to revitalize the narratives in his canvases. As all great storytellers do, he draws connections between the imagined and the real, history and the present day, and myth and current events. This particular artistic philosophy of Tapaya can be found in this monumental work entitled Repatriated Bodies. Done in a similar fashion in terms of style and scale, Repatriated Bodies showcases Tapaya at his best. Inspired by the issues and problems that Overseas Filipino Workers face daily, especially those affected by the 2011 Libyan civil war, Tapaya Folklore’s Poignant Picture weaves us an engaging tapestry that utilizes traditional folkloric imagery to tell a contemporary tale. Though this monumental masterpiece contains a slew of intriguing elements, Tapaya’s piece contains a central figure that is undoubtedly hard to ignore; the Mananaggal. An iconic creature hailing from the Philippines’ elaborate pre-colonial pantheon, the Manananggal is a creature noted for its ability to detach and displace its upper body from its lower torso, allowing it to move and hunt in unnatural ways. Tapaya uses the image and likeness of the Mananaggal in order to symbolize the complicated socio-political and cultural structure that pervades the experiences of OFWs as they strive to provide for themselves and their family. The Manananggal’s innate ability to detach itself also serves as an apt metaphor for the perverse situations these migrant workers have subjected themselves into, as if though they are willing themselves into a state of diaspora. Tapaya’s Repatriated Bodies is a monumental work that captures the artist’s masterful use of technique and nuanced understanding of our present world at large. Tapaya does not only weave for us a narrative that unravels the truths about our world, but provides us with a guide on how to act accordingly as we move on into the future.

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Maria Makiling
            Feb. 27, 2021

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Maria Makiling

            Est: ₱300,000 - ₱390,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Maria Makiling 2014 bronze mirror and fiberglass 27” x 30” x 19” (69 cm x 76 cm x 48 cm)     Accompanied by a certificate issued by ARNDT confirming the authenticity of this lot   Literature: Elliot, David, Dy-Recidoro, Zeny, and Jocks, HeinzNorbert. Rodel Tapaya. Distanz, 2015, p. 147   Exhibited: The Chocolare Ruins, ARNDT, Berlin, Germany, 2014. Art Fair Philippines, Makati City, February 5 - 8, 2015.   WRITE UP: Celebrated contemporary artist Rodel Tapaya was born in Montalban, on the slopes of the mountains of Sierra Madre. Here, he was drawn to Philippine folklore, as the small town is known for being deeply rooted in these stories and mythical characters and creatures. Described as a magical realist, Tapaya paints interlinked images which mutually inform each other. He said that reading folktales, myths, and other stories makes his imagination “explode with images” as there is liberty for the imagination to visualize the archetypes and images assigned to them. Maria Makiling is an interesting piece that shows Tapaya’s passion as a visual storyteller and his limitless imagination, tapping into the collective consciousness by presenting a fragment of a familiar tale and archetype. By depicting a pictorial fragment, the viewer is led to an imaginative folkloric world.   Tapaya studied painting and drawing at the University of the Philippines, Parsons School of Design in New York City, and University of Art and Design in Helsinki. Since 2004, he has held many solo exhibits in the country and abroad. In 2011, he won the Grand Prize of the APB Foundation Signature Art Prize. Tapaya was also among the recipients of the CCP Thirteen Artists Award in 2012.

            Leon Gallery
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Invincible
            Feb. 27, 2021

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Invincible

            Est: ₱1,400,000 - ₱1,820,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) Invincible signed and dated 2009 (lower right) oil on canvas 60” x 76” (152 cm x 193 cm)      Literature: Manilaartblogger.com, Snippets from the Manila Art Scene,  14 March 2010   Exhibited: Ark Galerie, Looking Back, Jl. Senopati Raya 92, Jakarta, March 2010   WRITE UP: Acclaimed contemporary artist Rodel Tapaya’s paintings display recurring narratives embedded in Filipino cultural history that offer sharp and often piercing commentary on contemporary life and issues. Through his adept manipulation of folk aesthetic and material, Tapaya provides his mythical characters with allegorical significances that transcend common perception, offering fresh insights about their origins and relevance. The paintings become a tableau of the painter’s articulations and traces of the stories that inspired them. Sometimes, his characters appear in archetypes culled from pre-colonial historical research and recorded folktales from recent scholarship. These qualities have led him to receive positive reception from art collectors worldwide.   In the present, Tapaya is one of Southeast Asia’s most successful contemporary artists at auctions; the far-reaching appreciation of his works has been part of the wave that gained more attention for Southeast Asian contemporary art in recent years. Tapaya remains a favorite among Southeast Asian auction houses where his works are highly regarded. He is widely exhibited in cities in the Southeast Asian region as well as in Beijing, Berlin, New York, and Tokyo.   Rodel Tapaya established himself as the foremost articulator of Filipino myths and legends into visual language. Just like his other forays into the Filipino collective imagination, this particular work is characterized by a wildly colorful palette, an assembly of figures that enacts a narrative, and a slew of highly symbolic imagery adding alluring texture to the story. The particular story alluded to by the painting may be the legend of the jackfruit—of how, from being once a smooth fruit, it gained its spiky skin.

            Leon Gallery
          • RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) Voices in the Wilderness acrylic on canvas 192 x 152
            Dec. 03, 2020

            RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) Voices in the Wilderness acrylic on canvas 192 x 152

            Est: $140,000 - $260,000

            RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980) Voices in the Wilderness acrylic on canvas 192 x 152 cm. (75 5/8 x 59 7/8 in.)

            Christie's
          • Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Naku May Lalabas na Pari Diyan
            Nov. 28, 2020

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Naku May Lalabas na Pari Diyan

            Est: ₱700,000 - ₱910,000

            Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Naku May Lalabas na Pari Diyan signed and dated 2006 (lower right) acrylic on burlap Estimate USD : $14000-$18200 Estimate Euros : €11666.66-€15166.66

            Leon Gallery
          Lots Per Page: