Hulot Gallery opens its first exhibition of 2026 on March 20 with Sovereign Faces, a solo presentation by French artist Henri Lamy at the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA), Iloilo Business Park.
In celebration of Women’s Month, the exhibition brings together a compelling body of portraits and symbolic works that examine the many dimensions of feminine identity across cultures and generations.
The series of artworks features Lamy’s principal use of a palette knife to create textured surfaces, complemented by a style described as kinetic expressionism. Influenced by the fluid movements of Capoeira, a Brazilian art form that combines dance, rhythm, and martial movement, Lamy’s gestures create dynamic slashes of color and a rhythmic dialogue between body and canvas.
In Sovereign Faces, Lamy uses portraiture to explore identity through the human face, highlighting a person’s sense of self and ownership of their own story. By presenting each subject individually, Lamy allows every portrait to stand as a tribute to the individual.
At the core of Henri Lamy’s work is a lifelong fascination with the human psyche. Born in 1985, the French figurative painter began his career painting facial expressions
of those who exist on the fringes of society.
“This series of paintings explores the multifaceted identity of women across generations and borders, from unsung heroines and cultural icons to historical figures who have shaped the destiny of their nations,” Lamy shared. “I aim to challenge traditional narratives and celebrate the resilience, diversity, and leadership of women in both the private and public spheres,” he added.
Among the individuals depicted in his portraits are revolutionary leader Gabriela Silang, democracy icon Corazon Aquino, and renowned Filipino sculptor Agnes Arellano. Other works include Mangyan Girl, a tribute to indigenous youth and the enduring spirit of the Mindoro tribes, as well as a portrait of Maïa d’Aboville, his wife, recognizing her work in preserving Mangyan culture and protecting the tamaraw.
Symbolic pieces such as Sea Goddess and reinterpretations of national currency further explore themes of representation and female leadership.
Having maintained a longstanding relationship with the Philippines through exhibitions and collaborative programs, Lamy has staged notable shows in the country, including “Wanderlust,” “Family,” and “Linya” at Altromondo Gallery in Manila and “Power” at Qube Gallery in Cebu.
Beyond exhibitions, he has worked with organizations such as the Stairway Foundation, Project PEARLS, and Museo Pambata, and co-founded the Ugnayan sa Poblacion art residency in 2017, which demonstrates the role of art in community development.
Alongside the exhibition, Lamy will conduct a painting class on March 18, offering participants a glimpse into his dynamic creative process. The public opening on March 21 will feature a live Capoeira Painting performance, allowing audiences to witness the movement-driven technique that defines his work.
Visitors are invited to experience Sovereign Faces until May 17, 2026, and participate in its accompanying programs at ILOMOCA.
As the Iloilo City’s Center of Arts and Culture, Iloilo Business Park continues to serve as a vital platform for artistic exchange, bringing international voices and contemporary perspectives to the region’s growing cultural landscape.
For updates on the latest art exhibitions, visit megaworld-lifestylemalls.com or call (02) 8462-8888.