Vitrum

Known for her dynamic approach to painting and copper sculpture, acclaimed abstractionist Katrina Cuenca boldly turns to the medium of glass in bold pursuit of her artistic metaphor. In this exhibition of sculptural works done in lustrous glass, she explores the tension between movement and stillness, transparency and solidity, inviting viewers into a contemplative space shaped by light, form, and material.

The title of this exhibition itself, “Vitrum,” pulls inspiration from the Latin word meaning glass. This likewise stands as a subtle nod to an architectural motif, the Vitruvian wave, an intricate pattern of scrollwork often attributed to ancient Greek and Roman design. This reference speaks to Katrina Cuenca’s broad artistic curiosity, which spans not only painting and sculpture but also the art of finely crafted interiors. In this way, this exhibition becomes a natural convergence of the many facets of her practice, brought together through the language of sculpted glass.

Each meticulously sculpted piece bears the unmistakable mark of Cuenca’s style and aesthetic sensibilities. Prominent among these is the presence of carved, undulating lines incised across the surface of each sculpture. This elegant visual motif—a hallmark in her oeuvre—finds new dimension and nuance in the glow of glass. These flowing grooves take on an almost organic and fluid quality that contrasts brilliantly with the rigidity of the material itself.

Cuenca’s ongoing exploration of light also plays a central role in this series. Her glass sculptures evoke the shimmer and movement of glistening water as they capture and refract light. The elegant interplay of form and luminosity creates a sense of tranquility as each work casts soft hues of green, amber, lilac, and rose throughout the space.

“Vitrum” embodies the ever-present grace and serenity that have long drawn patrons to Katrina Cuenca’s works. Yet this exhibition is more than a meditative expression; it is also an outpouring of the artist’s restless and evolving creative spirit. Each graceful curve and furrow carved in luminous glass reflects an artist in a constant state of flux and reinvention as she continues to broaden the boundaries of her aesthetic language.

“Vitrum” by Katrina Cuenca will run from July 4 to 15, 2025, at Galleria Nicolas Greenbelt with an artist reception on July 4, 2025, at 5 PM. The gallery is located at 3F, Greenbelt 5, Legazpi Street, Makati City. For inquiries, contact Galleria Nicolas at +63 936 225 1226 or email gallerianicolasgreenbelt@gmail.com.