Thursday, January 16, 2025

Kitty Taniguchi: A Champion of Feminine Aesthetic

 Biography of Cristina "Kitty" Taniguchi


Cristina "Kitty" Sollesta-Taniguchi, born in 1952, is a prominent Filipino visual artist known for her exploration of femininity and symbolism in art.​ She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication in 1978 and a Master’s degree in English Literature in 1985 at Silliman University, where she wrote her thesis titled "Gothic Tales in Siquijor: Their Theological Implications."


Kitty began her artistic journey in the 1980s, navigating the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated art world. In 1992, she founded Mariyah Gallery, an artist-run space that served as a platform for her and other artists. Her work often reflects her personal experiences and the struggles of women, using symbolism to challenge traditional representations.


She has held solo exhibitions at prestigious venues such as the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Ayala Museum, and Pinto Gallery, and has participated in numerous group exhibitions. Her artistic style has evolved over the years, characterized by a blend of imagination, philosophy, and a deep engagement with social issues.


Kitty continues to live and work in Dumaguete City, where she remains an influential figure in the local art scene, inspiring new generations of artists.


Notable Artworks


Banshee 2 (early 1990s)


Blue Skyscrapers and Human Figures (1993)


Blue Dancers Series (1993)


Heroes and Dancers Series (Blue Dancers) (1994)


Paper City Series (Nude in the Park) (1994)


Lady with Tattoo (1996)


Artista Filipino 2 (2000)


The Virgin (2000)


Maria Itaru and the Green Dragon (2000)


I Think I Like It (2002)


Fish Tale With Big Lizard (2003)


Crow Rebellion (2003)


Buddha, His Cheeth and His Crow (2006)


Lion, Cheetah and Blue Chair (2006)


Evesian Dream No.1 (2006)


Winged Lover (2009)


The Nurturers (2009)


Sending Off The Crow and Buddha in the City (2008)


AWARDS :

CCP KAISA SA SINING VISAYAS NETWORK ANNOUNCES THE RECIPIENTS OF THE 2ND KSSLAP AWARDS 2024