Thinkspace Projects is presenting TRNZ’s debut US solo show, Cotton Harlequins. Inspired by the artist’s recent trips to local thrift shops and his childhood love of anime, the resulting collection of works on canvas and sculptural pieces are a colorful story told through clothing and facial expressions.
“Ukay-ukay” is a store in the Philippines where secondhand clothes, shoes, bags, and accessories are sold at a cheap price. The items sold are usually brought from European countries and North America, and resold to the community, bringing fashion influence and history.
In this collection, TRNZ breathes life into the garments for a third time, painting portraits featuring various pieces, patterns, and textures, each found during trips to the Ukay-ukay store. The result is layered and complex, just like the pieces of clothing, offering a window into cultural influence and the power of fashion as a visual medium.
Born in Manila, TRNZ (Terence) was introduced to art through dubbed Japanese anime which aired daily on his family’s local television. After receiving a BFA Major in Advertising, he spent his early years as an art director at TBWA/SMP, a global network advertising agency. In 2017, he shifted directions and started dabbling in visual art. His time in advertising taught him to embrace a multimedia approach in his work. Now, he creates a world with alluring narration while keeping characteristics that are unique to him and his style.