Plumes of Golden Splendor

The peacock in its glamorous splendor has found its place as a permeating symbol within the oeuvre of William Alvarez. Often found in his works, the bright iridescent feathers of this fowl have captivated humans all across the globe for centuries. Found represented in art, history, and mythology across different cultures, the peacock stands as an enduring icon and as a symbol that holds a rich multitude of meanings. In ancient cultures, the sight of this bird was thought to be an omen of prosperity and good fortune sent by the divine. Some myths paint the peacock as a representation of strength and glory. The enigmatic quality of this exotic bird has fascinated the minds of many and inspired countless pieces of art.

Throughout cultures and artistic mediums, the peacock has stood as a lasting symbol of beauty, opulence, and confidence—qualities that undercut the works featured in Alvarez’s exhibit. “Plumes of Golden Splendor” is the artist’s exploration into the peacock as a symbol and as his muse. Delicate renderings of these brightly colored birds are not an unfamiliar sight on Alvarez’s canvases. The artist paints his signature subjects silhouetted as the center of attention against well-curated backdrops of deep hues perfectly complementing the strikingly colored jewel-toned fowl. These scenes of the birds proudly perched on twisting branches are likewise imbued with a sense of serenity and stillness. The meditative quality of Alvarez’s composition and curvilinear forms heightens the inherent elegance and quiet opulence of his scenes of nature.

“Plumes of Golden Splendor” is a testament to William Alvarez’s ability to capture the coexistence of nature and beauty through the graceful poise and impressive plumage of the peacock. His audience is invited to view nature in a sublime light with his unique take on the relationship of flamboyance and environmental scenes as a lens. This is all while revitalizing and recontextualizing the peacock as a symbol of power and grace within local modern consciousness.

“Plumes of Golden Splendor” by William Alvarez runs from February 4 - 15, 2024. Galerie Raphael U.P. Town Center is located at at the 2/F Phase 2, U.P. Town Center, Katipunan Ave., Diliman, Quezon City.

For inquiries, contact Galerie Raphael U.P. Town Center at +632 8247 1109 or email galerie.raphael@gmail.com.