PROPERTY FROM THE JOSE ZAI DE COLLECTI ON
Hernando R. Ocampo (1911 - 1978)
a) Abstract
oil on board
10 1/2" x 8 1/4" (27 cm x 20 cm)

b) Abstract
oil on board
10 3/4" x 8" (27 cm x 20 cm)

PROVENANCE
Acquired directly from the artist

Acclaimed for his method of abstraction, Hernando
R. Ocampo was regarded as an artist who used an
intellectual approach in his masterpieces. He was able
to create novel imagery and symbolism through the
alchemy of paint after he abandoned his pre-war and
post-war figurations. His art is described to be "abstract
compositions of biological forms that seemed to oscillate,
quiver, inflame and multiply," like mutations.
A remarkable illustration of his revered mode of
abstraction are these two pieces done in oil on board.
Organic symbols find their way into these works of
Ocampo, adding to the complexity of the surface
meanings of the canvases. However, the said details are
more than just ornamental marvels and are considered
a personal and substantial reaction to the stimuli and
environment that the artist engaged. Still, despite his
habit of drawing inspiration from his surroundings, his
art is anything but derivative.
In Ocampo’s works, colors take the center stage. The
chromatic scale gradually moves from one tone to the
other — hues of yellow, the color which he personally
calls his “life force,” and orange are carefully balanced
with the darker shades. His interlocking forms and distinct
color palette have given rise to a unique visual language
that is notably and completely Ocampo’s. (P.I.R.)