AFM Gallery

This exhibit presents the captivating works of two internationally recognized artists, Janine Barrera and Francis Dravigny, who share a profound connection to the Philippines, either as their homeland or as an adopted sanctuary. Their art, deeply rooted in personal and cultural narratives, explores the rich interplay between nature, identity, and storytelling.

Janine Barrera’s oil on canvas works embody a sophisticated abstraction of the nearly there—capturing the liminal spaces between what is seen and what is felt. Her landscapes, rendered with subtle textures and layered hues, evoke a dreamlike quality that invites viewers to step into an ethereal world of unfolding possibilities. Her compositions transform familiar terrains into profound meditations on the mystery and transience of nature.

In contrast, Francis Dravigny’s mixed-media creations incorporate fabric, embroidery, and indigenous Philippine materials such as raffia and abaca. These elements, woven in his studio and in collaboration with local communities, reflect his advocacy for preserving cultural traditions and nurturing sustainable practices. Dravigny draws attention not only to the visual power of his work but also to the material origins. As he explains, “The concept of the bark is central, but so too are the materials. Most of the yarn used for the weaving is extracted from trees—abaca, raffia, and even rayon, which comes from vegetal cellulose found in trees. It’s a journey that goes back and forth—from the bark to the weaving.” His pieces thus embody a cyclical process, where nature and craftsmanship intertwine to create art that bridges the organic and the human.
Both artists converge in their shared fascination with trees—those silent witnesses to time, growth, and transformation. Their works channel the enduring mysteries and hidden stories contained within these natural sentinels, encouraging viewers to explore the rich symbolism and metaphors trees offer.

Through their art, Barrera and Dravigny pose a timeless question: What are trees, really? More than just flora, trees stand as symbols of resilience, history, and interconnectedness. Their bark, layers of growth and protection, invites us to look beyond the surface—uncovering narratives that intertwine with our own human experiences. This exhibition offers an exploration of these “stories beyond the bark,” weaving together visual interpretations that connect nature, memory, and meaning.

By delving into the intricate details of the natural world, Barrera and Dravigny inspire viewers to reflect on the deeper truths hidden within the landscapes we so often take for granted. Here, trees become more than just subjects; they transform into storytellers, guardians, and testaments to life’s continuous unfolding.