LOT 51
NORMA BELLEZA
B. Phillipines, 1939
Ani, 1994
Signed and dated “Belleza 94” on lower left
Oil on canvas
71 x 67 cm
Provenance Private Collection, Singapore
RM1,000 – RM2,000
Norma Belleza began by painting dark and sombre representations of religious subjects. Then, she progressed into colourful and detailed works on folk genre subjects, including Metro Manila aides, peasants in various rural activities, women vendors, and potters. She is also known for emphasising the physical strength and native appearance of her subjects, as seen in this painting. All of them are drawn portly, with archetypal Oriental features that make up the Filipinos. The family here is huddled closely together and is surrounded by the village scenery. The intricacy of skill and artistic flair that the artist uses makes this piece an absolute stunner.