In the aftermath of Typhoon Odette, which devastated the Visayas in December 2021, artist Anton Quisumbing found inspiration among the debris. The storm left behind wrecked homes, uprooted lives, and damaged landscapes, particularly along the coast. Quisumbing recalls the destruction he witnessed in Cebu, where shipping yards and docks were disordered.
Amid the chaos, he noted that while some boats sank, many remained, their propellers damaged from relentless winds. The remnants of these boats, including large bronze propellers, lay untouched for nearly two years until a friend directed Quisumbing's attention to them.
A New Artistic Vision
The shipping yards, docks, and marinas were rearranged, dismantled… Not all boats sank, but because of the wind, they kept banging on the docks, so the propellers got destroyed.
Anton Quisumbing
Quisumbing, known for his intricate stone carvings and paintings, saw potential in these discarded materials. His latest exhibit, 'Pasulong: Recent Sculpture by Anton V. Quisumbing,' currently showcased at the Yuchengco Museum, features sculptures crafted from the storm's remnants.
With his background in a family business of furniture and fabrication, Quisumbing approached the challenge of transforming the heavy manganese bronze propellers into art with a unique perspective.
Crafting with Purpose
Rather than melting down the propellers, he aimed to preserve their history. Quisumbing states, "That’s not the point. The point is to keep what the material has already lived through." His dedication to the craft involved months of problem-solving to work with a material known for its difficulty.
He adapted a plasma cutter and used a motorized grinding disc to navigate the challenges posed by the thickness and composition of the bronze.
Innovative Sculptures
Over two years, Quisumbing has produced 29 sculptures that capture the fluidity and movement of water, a nod to the propellers' original purpose. His creations range from dynamic reliefs to swirling forms, showcasing a playful interaction with the material.
Each piece not only reflects technical mastery but also carries a narrative of resilience. Notably, his first completed work, 'Stella Maris,' honors the patron saint of sailors, embodying themes of protection and hope.
Resilience in Adversity
Quisumbing's journey has not been without its setbacks. A recent theft of bronze from his studio posed a significant challenge. However, he transformed the leftover scraps into three hand-engraved crosses, symbolizing his commitment to continue creating.
The exhibition title, 'Pasulong,' meaning 'forward' in Filipino, encapsulates his philosophy. Quisumbing believes that materials deemed waste can be reimagined into something meaningful.
Through this exhibit, Quisumbing highlights the resilience of the Visayan people and the natural world, turning tragedy into beauty and storytelling through art.