Award-winning interior and furniture designer Milo Naval is making his foray into fine art with “YAKISUGI,” his first solo exhibition.
The mixed-media show, curated by Christina “Ling” Quisumbing Ramilo and presented by APHRO founder Tina Fernandez, was previewed to the media on Monday, July 20. The exhibition explores the relationship between nature and design through works made from charred wood, glass, galvanized steel and other materials.
The exhibition came together after designer and art advocate Luis Espiritu introduced Fernandez to Naval. During their meeting, Fernandez learned that Naval was looking for a space to launch his art, leading to the presentation of “YAKISUGI” at APHRO.
Drawing inspiration from the natural elements of earth, water, air, and fire, Naval said the exhibition reflects his desire to celebrate the balance found in nature.
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“My artwork is a celebration of the four natural elements–earth, water, air and fire. Together, these elements form the perfect life-support system for our planet. Through my art, I want to show the balance and beauty of these forms,” Naval said.
“Earth grounds us. Water moves us. Air breathes life into us. Fire transforms us. I hope my work reminds viewers of our deep connection to nature and the beautiful harmony that allows us to exist,” he added.
The exhibition, which opens today, July 21, at APHRO in The Alley at Karrivin Plaza in Makati City, takes its name from yakisugi, a traditional Japanese method of preserving wood through charring. Naval said he was drawn to the technique because it is natural and uses zero chemicals.
“I was initially experimenting and looking into various techniques of preserving wood. I was drawn to Yakisugi… for several reasons. First, it is natural and uses zero chemicals. As a designer, I am also partial to black,” he said.
According to the exhibition notes, “YAKISUGI” invites viewers to see the natural world through the lens of structure and geometry, translating forces such as fire, rain, lightning and wind into structured industrial landscapes.
Naval said the exhibition also explores how design can frame nature’s unpredictability.
“‘YAKISUGI’ is the ultimate expression of human order–a calculated system of lines, coordinates, and strict boundaries. This architectural framework is cast in an attempt to capture, section, and measure the unpredictable volatility of the natural world,” he said.
The works use charred wood to represent fire’s ability to destroy and preserve, glass to reflect the relationship between water and weather, and galvanized steel to symbolize the passing of seasons.
“I wanted to capture the beauty of imperfections. At the same time, show how design can be a tool that highlights how nature can work in our everyday lives. As a designer and artist, I am always finding ways to celebrate the natural world,” Naval said.
Naval studied architecture at the University of Santo Tomas before pursuing interior design at the Philippine School of Interior Design. He later founded Evolve Designs, whose furniture collections have been showcased in international design shows in Spain, France, Italy, Germany and the United States.
“YAKISUGI” is on view until August 22 at APHRO.
—With Sammy Baynosa