Rodel Tapaya Paintings & Artwork for Sale | Rodel Tapaya Art Value Price Guide

Nov. 30, 2024
Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Kabayong Gigil
Est: ₱200,000 - ₱260,000
Kabayong Gigil signed and dated 2007 (lower left and verso) acrylic on canvas 14" x 12" (36 cm x 30 cm) PROVENANCE: West Gallery Tapaya’s practice spans a variety of media, including large-scale acrylic canvases, under-glass painting, traditional crafts, dioramas, and intricate drawings. Each piece becomes a tableau of his reflections on time and place, influenced by extensive research into pre-colonial history and local folklore. The use of folk elements and labyrinthine patterns throughout his work forms a visual language that simultaneously preserves and reinterprets Filipino myths. His characters often appear as archetypes, shaped by recorded folktales and recent historical scholarship. The piece features a stylized horse, rendered with simplified shapes and muted earth tones, giving it a timeless, almost mythical quality. The horse's body is constructed through overlapping forms, with slender legs that drip into the foreground, a technique that emphasizes both elegance and a surreal distortion. The grid lines subtly incorporated into the background suggest a sense of confinement or structure, perhaps symbolizing the boundaries of tradition or history. (Jed Daya)
Leon Gallery
Nov. 30, 2024
Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - A Sky Without Stars, A Sea Without Sand
Est: ₱2,800,000 - ₱3,640,000
A Sky Without Stars, A Sea Without Sand signed and dated 2020 (lower left) oil on canvas 76" x 68" (193 cm x 173 cm) EXHIBITED: He Xiangning Art Museum, HEAVENLY BODIES IN THE SOUTH A Joint Exhibition for Qin Qi and Rodel·Tapaya), Shenzhen, China, 6 June to 5 July 2020 The large-scale works of Rodel Tapaya are often covered in amalgamations of folk narratives and vivid storytelling. Leaving no square inch of canvas unused, he explores topics of folktales and historical research, creating an interesting tableau of characters that intersect from different periods and times. With his 2020 A Sky Without Stars, A Sea Without Sand, Tapaya plays around with pre-colonial religion as a feathered man (a sort of man-bird hybrid) holds open the mouth of a giant snake reminiscent of a bakunawa. Around them, it seems the world is out of order, with visions of floods and fires interweaving the figures. Several elements are also worth mentioning – a decapitation head lies near the feathered man with wings sprouting from its head; the end of the bakunawa’s tail morphs into an amorphous hand gripping the concrete below; a man, face obscured by a shining line, sits idly near the bakunawa. The works of Rodel Tapaya invite introspection and discussion. Its dense narrative compositions are enriched by Indigenous folklore and postcolonial analysis, creating a body of work that would excite the most curious of viewers to figure out the message hidden in its depths. (Hannah Valiente)
Leon Gallery
Nov. 30, 2024
Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Urban Sprawl
Est: ₱5,000,000 - ₱6,500,000
Urban Sprawl dated 2018 acrylic on canvas 118" x 196 3/4" (300 cm x 500 cm) EXHIBITED: Tang Contemporary Art, Myths and Truths, Beijing 2nd space, 3 November - 15 December 2018 Busan Exhibition and Convention (Bexco) Center, Art Busan 2019, 30 May - 2 June 2019 The Link, Ayala Center, Art Fair Philippines 2020, Makati City, 21 - 23 February 2020 Rodel Tapaya remains as one of the most celebrated and influential Filipino painters of his generation, and a prominent figure in Southeast Asian contemporary art. His work serves as a bridge between past and present, weaving Filipino cultural narratives with contemporary issues to offer compelling commentary on modern life. By drawing deeply from Filipino folklore and pre-colonial myth, Tapaya’s paintings resonate with allegorical depth, transforming traditional stories into profound reflections on today’s social, political, and environmental challenges. Tapaya’s use of folk aesthetics and mythical characters gives his artwork a unique narrative power, allowing his figures to transcend their origins and speak to universal themes. His intricate compositions merge imagination and reality, history and present-day concerns, creating surreal worlds that hold a mirror to contemporary society. The influence of German Expressionism, as well as the Mexican muralists, is evident in Tapaya’s use of vivid color, dense figurative forms, and a flat application of paint, bringing both aesthetic richness and social critique to his work. Tapaya’s narratives, often filled with surreal landscapes and symbolic characters, expose the interplay between humankind and nature, underscoring the repercussions of human actions on the environment. In his exploration of the relationship between scientific truth and Filipino mythology, Tapaya’s paintings embody anthropologist Claude Levi-Strauss’s view that myths operate within us, shaping our perceptions unconsciously. Through these works, Tapaya creates scenes of forests, mountains, and other landscapes that feel both familiar and otherworldly. By juxtaposing ancient mythical elements with contemporary environmental crises, he invites viewers to consider how human ambition and exploitation of nature can lead to disasters—our own "earthquakes." This layered approach illuminates how folklore and myth remain relevant, revealing the timeless nature of these narratives and their resonance with today’s ecological and societal issues. In this visually arresting piece, Tapaya masterfully intertwines elements of Filipino folklore with vivid imagery that speaks to contemporary social issues. The painting is a dense, surreal landscape populated with a variety of symbolic figures and objects—a skeletal animal, masked characters, and figures adorned in traditional garb—all set against a backdrop of contrasting colors and textures. The composition is both chaotic and structured, with flames, barren trees, and floating objects that evoke a sense of tension between destruction and resilience. Tapaya’s use of polka dots, bright colors, and exaggerated features lends a dreamlike quality to the work, emphasizing the duality between myth and reality. Each character seems to hold allegorical meaning, serving as conduits for stories that have roots in ancient Filipino mythology while addressing modern themes like environmental degradation, cultural identity, and human impact on nature. The piece invites viewers to explore the layers of Tapaya’s narrative, reflecting on how traditional beliefs continue to shape contemporary life and societal concerns in the Philippines. (Jed Daya)
Leon Gallery
Nov. 30, 2024
Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Happy Wheels
Est: ₱800,000 - ₱1,040,000
Happy Wheels signed and dated 2020 (lower left) acrylic on burlap 48" x 36" (122 cm x 91 cm) Accompanied by a certificate signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot Rodel Tapaya’s practice offers a vivid reimagining of Filipino cultural history, transforming ancient narratives into compelling commentaries on modern issues. His paintings draw from folklore and mythology, populating canvases with figures that serve as symbolic links between the past and present. Tapaya skillfully uses these mythic archetypes to explore contemporary themes, layering his work with both beauty and tension. In this piece titled Happy Wheel, we are presented with a richly textured and layered work that exemplifies his dynamic approach to storytelling through symbolism and abstraction. In this portrait-oriented work, a chaotic assembly of shapes, eyes, hands, and wheels interweaves with one another, creating a frenetic tableau that appears both organic and mechanical. The varied elements seem to represent fragments of life and industry, reflecting Tapaya’s interest in the intersection of human experience and societal structures. The prominent wheel motif, paired with pipes and disembodied eyes, suggests movement, surveillance, and perhaps the cyclical nature of life and labor. Tapaya’s mastery in blending abstract forms with figurative hints allows him to create a surreal, dreamlike composition that engages viewers in a search for meaning. Like much of his oeuvre, Happy Wheel functions as both a visual puzzle and a commentary on the complexities of modern existence, inviting us to delve into the layers of cultural, historical, and social narratives embedded in his work. (Jed Daya)
Leon Gallery
Nov. 30, 2024
Rodel Tapaya (b. 1980) - Untitled
Est: ₱100,000 - ₱130,000
Untitled signed and dated 2005 (lower right) mixed media 24" x 18" (61 cm x 46 cm) Rodel Tapaya is an award-winning contemporary artist known for his adept use of allegory and folklore in his masterpieces. His oeuvre is a product of his dexterous hands, profound understanding of materials, and substantial knowledge of his country’s culture and history. Despite his surrealistic approach to storytelling, his compositions curiously embody a peculiar Filipino taste. This whimsical, untitled piece in 2005 is a testament to his distinctive artistry. Furthermore, Tapaya’s illustrious works of reimagined folk narratives incorporated into contemporary realities continue to ornament the art scene, locally and internationally, earning him a distinction as one of the most sought-after Southeast Asian contemporary artists. (Jessica Magno)
Leon Gallery
Nov. 09, 2024
RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980). The Hunter. acrylic on canvas 184 x 102 cm. (72 1⁄2
Est: $160,000 - $260,000
RODEL TAPAYA (B. 1980). The Hunter. acrylic on canvas 184 x 102 cm. (72 1⁄2 x 40 1⁄8 in.).
Christie's
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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

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