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CAPTURING FORMLESSNESS: Rico Lascano’s Visual Sanctuary

By Hannah Jo Uy

“As early as I could remember, I have found it more satisfying to express :inner feelings through visual art rather than through words,” says Rico Lascano. “Abstract painting for me is more useful in expressing one’s emotion.”

The abstraction that Lascano offers is particularly poignant, as the artist not only records his visual meditations through organic, spontaneous, and minimalist compositions; he also delves deeper into a serious, yet subtle commentary on life and existence as the works take on an esoteric and mysterious quality, as though each canvas holds the secrets of the universe.

His body of work perfectly captures the very essence of Zen Buddhism and the Daoist principle, which is formlessness. This formlessness is a challenge to the material world and our attachment toward objects and ideas, particularly with regard to how we have hinged our identities on it. Lascano tackles the idea of formlessness through his own brand of abstraction, which serves as a still and peaceful sanctuary.

Significantly inspired by nature, Lascano’s work is not only aesthetically pleasing it is also deeply moving in such a way that it encourages silence and contemplation among viewers. His works are the visual representation of space, and because it is so, each painting takes on the meaning assigned by each viewer from their own personal reflections. This dynamic quality is grounded on the artist’s love for water, which finds its power in fluidity and adaptability.

“For me the stillness of water initiates deep reflection and meditation,” he said. “Thus, these concepts/philosophies have manifested itself in my bodies of work like Pondering, Liquid Prose, Stream of Consciousness, and the Water Dance series.”

Indeed, the power of each work is most palpable in its ability to transform itself according to each viewer, invoking upon them this visual haven that serves as a welcome pause from the bombardment of superficial images that otherwise assault our senses.

Thus, it might seem as a surprise for those that are not aware of his distinguished background, that this proponent of stillness has established a notable career in the fast paced world of advertising. An alumni of University of the Philippines with a degree in Visual Cmmunications, he was recognized for his work in advertising through multiple awards, all as he took on the responsibilities as the president of the Art Director’s Club of Manila and co-founded an all-Filipino ad agency.

Throughout this time, he was cultivating his artistic direction, noting the influence of a number of prominent abstractionists throughout his journey. In college, he professed a deep love for the works of Joya, who was one of his teachers. “When I was working as an art director I was blessed that Edwin Wilwayco persuaded and mentored me toward pursuing abstract art,” he also recalls. “Later on, I leaned heavily on the minimalist side, which explains why most of my early works are influenced by Gus Albor and Lao Lianben.”

In addition, he also shares his admiration for Gao Xingjian and Zao Wou-Ki, for both their creative portfolio and their artistic approach: “As Gao Xingjian once said ‘Painting begins when words fail.’ That is the essence of my creative philosophy.”

Lascano continues to cultivate a strong appreciation for this Chinese-born playwright and author of Soul Mountain, which earned him a Nobel Prize for literature. The author’s works were thought to be critical of China and was thus banned, eventually forcing him to flee the country. “In France he came to realize that all the words used by humanity are not enough to express human emotions, which is why he evolved into a painter.”

The artist’s inclination toward capturing the unseen has further encouraged his study in Oriental philosophy. He is not only inspired by Chinese literature, he is also fascinated by the philosophies borne within the region. “My art has a strong Japanese influence, too,” he said. “My body of works [The Pondering Series] was inspired by the haiku poems of my wife Chachu, and the Satori Series, [following the tradition of] Zen Buddhism pertains to a moment of enlightenment.”

He has now earned the praise of discerning people within the industry. With more than 11 solo exhibitions in the Philippines and abroad, he has an international audience, all of whom have lauded his work for its timeless beauty and its ability to touch on universal and fundamental aspects of our humanity. His works have found its way to the homes of many people across the globe, in privileged residences such as that of Claude-Michel Schonberg of Miss Saigon fame, as well as distinguished institutions like the Central Bank of the Philippines.

Passion continues to drive Lascano, who said that, “As long as you keep that flame burning and keep on nourishing it you will continue to create fresh and stimulating art.”

This is also evident in his most recent endeavor, where he showcased his work alongside distinguished abstractionist Benjie Cabangis in the exhibit “Substance-Essence,” which opened last March 18 at Art Anton.

Exhibiting 18 works, Lascano continues to unveil paintings that are visual manifestations of his artistic philosophy which he aptly describes as an “inner journey that elevates existence and consciousness.” As he dives into work, he continues to draw from visual experiences and internal reflections, which, as he says, has always been the wellspring of his art.

“Making art is a very spiritual endeavor,” Lascano affirms. “Your whole being, your mind, body and spirit are catalysts in the process of creating art.”

Published April 10, 2017