Pacita Abad (1946 - 2004)

Pacita Abad

Pacita Abad was a renowned Filipino artist, celebrated for her vibrant and colorful artwork that showcased her deep engagement with global cultures and social issues. Born in 1946 in Batanes, Philippines, into a politically active family, Abad's life took a significant turn when she decided to abandon her law studies in favor of art, influenced by her interactions and travels across the globe. This decision led her to explore various art forms and techniques, including trapunto painting—a method where canvases are stitched and padded to create a three-dimensional effect​​.

Abad's art was profoundly influenced by her extensive travels with her husband, Jack Garrity, through more than 60 countries, where she not only collected textiles but also immersed herself in local cultures. This exposure is vividly reflected in her works, which often incorporate traditional fabrics and objects, such as beads and shells, integrating them into her colorful abstract and figurative paintings​.

Throughout her career, Abad's works were displayed in over 200 museums and galleries worldwide, including prestigious venues like Tate Modern and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) PS1. Her work not only celebrates the visual and cultural diversity she encountered but also addresses global and humanitarian issues, such as the plight of refugees, which she depicted through intimate and powerful portraits of women and children​.

Pacita Abad's legacy continues to inspire and influence the art world, highlighting her role as an "ambassador of colors" whose works helped to "make the world smile" with their exuberance and vibrancy​. If you're interested in learning more about her life and work, consider signing up for updates on exhibitions and sales related to her art. This will keep you informed about opportunities to engage with and perhaps collect pieces from the oeuvre of this groundbreaking artist.