In the absence of any exhibit notes or artists’ statements, it seems safe to assume that The Death of Death (Is Alive and Kicking) is a group show about death.  Simply go by the number of skulls up on the walls of the Art Center at SM Megamall.  It would have been nice to understand what went behind the more subtle, less archetypal works.  But then again, sometimes a piece should just hit you, make an impact on first impression.  After all, art need not always explain the meaning of life.  Or in this case, death.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I thought the photographers ruled the day:  Isa Lorenzo‘s wonderful photograms and MM Yu‘s assemblage of urban oddities.  Occasionally, I forget that Isa does more than run a gallery.  Her three pieces, single editions all, serve as pleasant reminders that she is a practicing artist.  MM will make you die— of laughter.  She captures unusual sights in the city, such as a bunch of (what I assume to be) fake mounds of human dung displayed for sale.

If Megamall stays open, this exhibit makes an interesting alternative to the usual Holy Week activities.  After all, what better time to contemplate date than during Easter, the time of rebirth.

 

 

 

The Death of Death (Is Alive and Kicking) runs from 20 March to 4 April at the SM Art Center, 4F Megamall.  Artists include Raena Abella, Juan Alcazaren, Igan D’Bayan, Kawayan de Guia, Khavn dela Cruz, Joey de Leon, Lourd de Veyra, Kiko Escora, David Griggs, Niña Laural, Ian Lomongo, Isa Lorenzo, Manuel Ocampo, Gary-Ross Pastrana, Keka Rodriguez, Mark Tandoyog, Wire Tuazon, MM Yu, and Jessica Zafra.