Fine Art Book by Graphic Design by Vrunda

LOLITA The ART OF

VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Florence - Manila - New York City

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Private Collection Permission to reproduce the following paintings is gratefully acklowledged: Aspettando il Ritorno, 2009 Sarteano, Italy Sa Bukid, Philippines Picnic in Long Island, 1990, New York Fall Magic, 2000, CT USA Path into the Forest, 2010, Italy Ponte di Luco, 2009, Spain Vita Nuova, 2013, Leon, Spain Sunset, 2008, Cetona, Siena, Italy Cover Page: Porta Allegria, Vigna Viva, 2010 Italy Cover and Book Design by Vrunda Patel https://issuu.com/designbyvrunda Please, note that photographs of paintings in this book may or may not represent the actual color and full size of painting. 4

LOLITA

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

The ART OF

VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Caribbean Sunset - Oil-on-Canvas, 39.5 x 39.5 inches

Florence - Manila - New York City 5

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Lolita Valderr ama Savage

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

introduction Contemplating Lolita - Our Global Artist by Dominique Gallego, Manila, Philippines

“You should follow the wind of life,” says Lolita Valderrama Savage, describing one of her top three favorite paintings, “Call of the Wind” (a gently windswept

European

landscape)

and

her

life

philosophy. After finishing her Fine Arts degree from the University of Santo Tomas (Philippines) in the ‘70s, the wind whisked Lolita to Florence where she studied painting at the Accademia di Belle Arti as an Italian government scholar, cutting short a budding teaching career at U.S.T. Today, her paintings grace private and corporate collections in many parts of the globe. Tuscan Olive Groves, 1995, Italy Oil-on-Canvas, 36 X 48 inches

At three and a half years old, Lolita attached herself to drawing, “my mother would pacify me with a pencil and paper and I’d be at peace for the next ten hours.” In her high school yearbook, she officially pronounced that she’d be a painter. Nature would eventually become her choice model. Growing up in Manila, she often stared 7

at the sky, pondering about heaven. When visiting Bulacan, she always played in the mango orchards and picked fruit straight off the trees. She looked forward to trips to La Union where she could be close to the beach and she relished the adventure of finding giant snakes in Ilocos Norte while wandering the farmlands. She fondly remembers the Fernando Amorsolo paintings depicted in the San Miguel corporation calendars they had at home. She loved the idyllic rural scenes with beautiful women, “I imagined myself as one of them.” As for Juan Luna and Felix Resurreccion-Hidalgo, they inspired her to visit other countries and reinforced her belief that the Filipino artist could be as good, if not better, than artists from Western Europe or any part of the world. Jose Rizal is, however, her biggest hero. “I’m amazed at all he did… in such a limited period…he inspired me to learn as many languages as I could.” Global yet local, Lolita says, “I love my country. I take my country with me wherever I go. You can’t fail when you take your country with you because you’re not just failing yourself.” Lolita‘s mentor, the well-respected Italian painter Silvio Loffredo (who himself was mentored by the great Expressionist Oskar Kokoschka), describes Lolita’s landscapes as creating a “little paradise…an open gentle world that one will always remember.” In Lolita’s words, “when you commune with nature, you can reflect about existence and ask why you’re here.” From Italy, the wind transported Lolita to Sweden where she studied with the Swedish painter Staffan Hallstrom (whose works form part of NYC’s Museum of Modern Art collection). Why Sweden? Her Scandinavian friends convinced her that nature was more captivating there. Lolita stayed in Eskilstuna (a town about an hour away from Stockholm) where she would walk to the woods everyday to paint and sometimes get lost, “it’s wonderful to be lost!” Lolita didn’t think she’d stay in Sweden for several years but she did “because of the peace of pure nature” 8

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Aspettando il Ritorno, 2009 Sarteano, Italy - Oil-on-Canvas, 20 X 24 inches Private Collection

(her Scandinavian friends were apparently right). Two of her top three favorite paintings are of Sweden - one in winter (a snow-blessed rural landscape with a series of Stugor or red cabins in the far distance) and Path to the Woods (a lush summer forest scene with a path evoking mystery which I mistook for some tropical place; a souvenir of her days in Eskilstuna). Among nature’s blessings, she also favors the sunset “when the perfectly round sun tears itself away from the passionate embrace of the clouds causing fire as it descends to kiss the silent horizon.” 9

Lolita’s sister, for many years, had failed to convince her to move to the United States. Sweden was then Lolita’s home but love (for husband Frank Savage) was the wind that eventually transported her to the U.S. Lolita recalls that a married musician friend advised, “if you want to be a real artist, don’t get married. If you choose marriage, you’ll lose your art.” For Lolita, however, “marriage and art… were both vocations. I just felt I had to respond to those two calls. It wasn’t impossible. Contrary to what my friend thought, it enriched my life.” Thirty years and three grown-up children later, it’s wonderful that Frank mentions (offhand) that one of his favorite paintings by Lolita is the very same Swedish winter landscape that Lolita selected as one of her three favorites (loving hearts do think alike!). Lolita’s art is also an integral part of her children’s lives. She recalls that when one of her sons was quite small and she was packing off a painting to a buyer, he was very distressed. Her daughter is an actress and I believe Lolita’s art has also inspired her. Lolita admits that, even today, all her children are still a bit possessive of her paintings. She makes it seem so effortless, raising three children (American style - no reliance on multiple live-in yayas!) while being the perfect corporate wife to a global businessman and making 10

Sa Bukid, Philippines - Oil-on-canvas, 30 X 40 inches Private collection

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

sure to paint. Any woman who balances similar things knows it’s far from effortless. Lolita's favorite medium is oil on canvass although she does wonderful watercolors and pen and ink too. She has also experimented with portraiture. Her style is Impressionistic (despite the fact that her mentors were influenced by Expressionism) and very tactile (her paintings are eye candy, you want to touch them). When you meet her, you’ll instantly recognize the same positive (ranging from restful to very vibrant) energy her paintings convey. My favorite painting is L’Automne a Roussillon which reminds me of Albert Camus’ words, “in the midst of winter, I have found within me an invincible summer.”

Coco Trees by the Sea, 2006 Philippines from memory - Oil-on-Canvas, 16 X 20 inches

Lolita first exhibited in 1975 in Florence, Italy. She’s also the first Filipina to have lived and painted in Scandinavia and to have had a solo exhibition in Stockholm. Her paintings have been exhibited at the Victoria and Albert Museum in the U.K. and at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. She has also been sponsored by the Commune of Florence to exhibit at the Museum of Dante Alighieri. She has also ventured to the North Pole to draw. I asked if she ever doubted her art, “why should I? It’s like doubting my existence. I and my art are one.” To Lolita, “artists are born not made“ and “painting means exercising a gift, a gift to be shared,” something “to give joy” and “that must be useful and beneficial to others.” Lolita acknowledges that she and Frank have been blessed and because of this she has utilized her art to help others. She first became actively involved in charities while her children were in school and noticed that fundraising was always a big challenge. So for many years now, she has used her art to help raise funds for needy children, public education and entities that support artists like the Foundation for Filipino Artists, Inc. As an admirer of St. Francis of Assisi, she reminds me, “it’s better to give than to receive.” She dedicates her paintings not only to family and friends but also to the “universal force that unites us together to learn about, understand, and love one another, through the beauty of art.” She plans to continue creating and helping others. She hopes that she can inspire and help young artists to dare to dream and allow themselves to be carried by the wind of life. Sidebar: Lolita has exhibited in the U.S., Italy, Sweden, France, the U.K. and Switzerland. She returns to her first foreign love, the city of Florence, to exhibit the fruit of her travels, life and passion, 30-40 paintings, at the Palazzo Medici Riccardi (Via Cavour 1, Firenze Italia) from December 3, 2013 (opening at 6 pm) through January 2, 2014.

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A Garden Symphony, 1987, Stamford, CT, USA - Oil-on-Canvas, 30 X 40 inches

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE is a lover and painter of Nature. She believes that in the basic expressions and manifestations of its reality, Nature awakens the simple and humble place of the human being in the expanse of this Universe. Born in Manila, Philippines, Lolita received her degree in Bachelor of Fine Arts at the Royal and Pontifical University of Santo Tomas, the oldest The painting's title is: Path Along Loive Groves 2002, Sien, Italy, Oil-on-Canvas, 9 X 11 inches

Catholic university in Asia founded in 1611. In 1973, she was granted a scholarship by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

to study at the

Accademia di Belle Arti in Florence where she received her Licenza in Pittura. Lolita's first international group art exhibit was presented at the Palazzo Strozzi in 1975, followed by many onewoman and group art shows in Italy and Sweden where she lived until her move to USA in 1980. She now lives and paints in New York City, Stamford, CT, and Florence Italy, actively continuing to exhibit Un Sentiero tra Ginestre, 2009 Grossetto, Tuscany Italy Oil-on-Canvas, 20 X24 inches

in Europe and Asia. Lolita attributes her artistic learning and discipline to Professor Silvio Loffredo of the Accademia and her former Swedish mentor, the late Staffan Hallstrom.

Lolita's commitment to art is combined with her passion for languages, diverse cultures, and a dedication to humanitarian causes. She worked at the United Nations and is actively involved in local and international organizations. As a member of the Board of Directors of Stamford Art Association, she chaired the First Scholarship Benefit Art Auction in l987 and again in 1989 to provide scholarships to young talented artists in Stamford and neighboring community schools in Fairfield County. Lolita also chaired the First International Cultural Festival for the Westover Magnet School in Stamford in 1991, a week long celebration of cultural heritages which aim was to stimulate awareness, sensitivity, better understanding and tolerance of all cultures present in our community. She served as judge for Black History Celebration's Stamford Schools' Art Competition at the Stamford Center for the Arts and supported other community organizations like The Forum for World Afffairs, Stamford Historical Society, Alliance Francaise YWCA of Greenwich, The Urban League of Southwestern Connecticut, and served on the boards of The Friends of the Ferguson Library and the Stamford Cultural Development Corporation. Presently, Lolita serves as Honorary Chairperson for The Foundation for Filipino Artists, Inc, and as board member for the MA-YI Theater Company, two non-profit organizations which promote asian-american art and artists in New York City. In Connecticut, she serves on the board of Namaskaar Foundation, promoting Indian and international dance and music and The ThumbelinaFund for Children of the Fairfield County Community Foundation. Lolita is a member of the American International League, L'Associazione Culturale Giovanni Papini di Firenze, and the Societa delle Belle Arti, Circolo degli Artisti at Casa di Dante in Florence, Italy. In 1987, Lolita was selected as an outstanding woman of America in recognition of her outstanding ability, accomplishments and service to the community. In 1997, her art exhibition 16

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Hidden House, Chianti, Italy - Oil on Canvas, 39.5 x39.5 inches

at the Stamford Center for the Arts was held to benefit the needy children of Connecticut. In 1999, she was awarded an official citation from the State of Connecticut for her work in the arts and community affairs for creating awareness of high level of culture and education in Fairfield County. Lolita was presented among the 125 Significant Women of Influence in Stamford by the Historical Society in that same year. In 2012, she received the Totus Tuus Award and the The Outstanding Thomasian Alumni Award in Visual Arts from her alma mater, the University of Santo Tomas in Manila. Lolita was one of the chosen international artists invited to exhibit at the prestigious World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland in 1999. Later, she was presented in a month long solo exhibition at the CASA DI DANTE ALIGHIERI in the historic center of Florence sponsored by the Comune di Firenze and the Philippine Embassy in Rome, Italy. In 2006, after an exhibit in Paris, France, she participated in the "Art for Peace" auction at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, for the benefit of students at Atlantic College in Wales. In her own words: "creating art has taken me up to a new level because it has enabled me to help children, promote education, and bring people together to forge friendship and cultural cooperation". In 2011, after 38 years, Lolita went back to Manila to exhibit in her native country's two major art museums, the AYALA Museum and the University of Santo Tomas Museum of Science and Art. Her recent exhibit was held in December 2013 to January 2014 at the Palazzo Medici Riccardi, the former residence of the Medici Family, the great patron of Renaissance Arts. Lolita is multi-lingual, apart from her native tongue Tagalog, she was formally trained to speak English, Italian, Spanish, Swedish, Norwegian, French and German. She is married to Frank Savage a mother to Fredrik Antoine, Grace Erlinda, and Frank Alexander.

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Rovina di una Torreta, 2002, Siena, Italy - 9 X 11 inches

Knitting Lady of Iceland, 1980, Iceland - Oil-on-Canvas, 24 X 30 inches

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Little French Girls, 1983, France - Oil-on-Canvas, 30 X 40 inches

The Ballet Dancer, 1976 Sweden - Oil-on-Canvas, 24 X 36 inches

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him freeâ&#x20AC;? -Michelangelo

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

The Cuban Immigrant, 1977, Eskilstuna, Sweden, Medium - Oil-on-Canvas, 16 X 20 inches

Girl at Tuileries, 1980 Paris, France - Oil-on-Canvas, 22 x26 inches

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Picnic in Long Island 1990, New York - Oil-on-Canvas, 22 X 28 inches Private collection

“Creativity takes courage.”- Henri Matisse

Pace nel Fienile 2004, Siena, Italy, - Oil-on-Canvas, 16 X 20 inches

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Porta Allegria, Vigna Viva 2010 Italy - Oil-on-Canvas, 39.5 X 39.5 inches

Mercatale, 2013, Tuscany, Italy - Oil-on-Canvas, 39.5 X 39.5 inches

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Joannas's Garden, 1995, Stamford, CT, USA - Oil-on-Canvas, 18 X 24 inches

“Art is never f inished, only abandoned” -Leonardo Da Vinci

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Tropical Flowers, 1979 Hawaii - Oil-on-Canvas, 24 X 36 inches

“What moves men of genius, or rather what inspires their work, is not new ideas, but their obsession with the idea that what has already been said is still not enough.” -Eugene Delacroix

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

FI L I P I NO P RES I D ENT I A L AWA RD

LOLITA VALDERRAMA-SAVAGE United States of America

The world is a canvass for our imagination. To Ms. Lolita Savage the world in not merely that â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it is where all the beauty and complexities of human life are reflected. Her works transcend physical aesthetics; they illustrate the underlying intricacies of nature and the sentiments of a passionate spirit. Being an artist she uses her talents to create art and paved her way to help young aspiring artists, promote education, forge friendship, and establish cultural cooperation. A lover of nature, she strives to capture the soul of her surroundings in a canvass, a task that takes passion, skill, and sensibility. She began practicing her love of art after she graduated from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) with the degree of Fine Arts. Her status as a globally known artist took off when she was granted a scholarship by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She was starting teaching her career in UST when she was given the scholarship. Because of this grant, she was able to study at the Accademia di Belle Arti in Florence, Italy in 1973. 33

It was from the guiding hands of Professors Silvio Loffredo and Staffan Hallstrom that Ms. Savage secured her knowledge of artistic practices. Able to elevate her fine skills, she attained her Licenza in Pittura, a licentiate in fine arts. The very first time she displayed her art in an exhibition is at the Palazzo Strozzi. She was one of the artists in an international group that held the exhibition. Following this first success, Ms. Savage was also featured in several onewoman shows in different parts of Europe. In fact, she was the first Filipino who held an exhibition at the Palazzo Medici Riccardi and Casa di Dante. In 1999, she was acknowledged as one of the eight globally admired artists awarded at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland. With her exquisite talent and an eye for the beauty of nature, she became an internationally recognized fine artist. For 40 years, she exhibited her artworks internationally in the USA, Europe, and Asia delighting art lovers across the world. Using her artistic talents, she became the first Filipino woman to have exhibited art works in Sweden, Italy, and Switzerland. Many beholders claim that the nostalgic landscapes she paints embody vivacious emotions of nature and life itself. It was in 2011 when her artistry was witnessed by her fellow Filipinos when she finally held an exhibit in the Philippines after 38 years of living abroad. Her art was displayed in two major museums, the Ayala Museum in Makati and the UST Museum of Science and Art in Manila. Her excellence in painting also allowed her to be conferred the Totus Tuus Award and The Outstanding Thomasian Alumni Award by her alma mater, the UST in 2011, Outstanding Women of America in 1987, and citations from the State of Connecticut for her contributions in the arts and community affairs. Hailing from Manila where she grew up marveling at the sky, Ms. Savageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love for nature was nurtured by her visits to provinces such as Bulacan, La Union, and Ilocos Norte. However, it 34

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Lolita with the President of the Republic of the Philippines,, Benigno S. Aquino III

was Fernando Amorsoloâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paintings printed on calendars that captivated her and nourished her fondness for nature.

Although with intrinsic penchant for the arts, she developed her taste from distinguished Filipino artists such as Leonardo Hidalgo and Diosdado Lorenzo of the University of Santo Tomas. With potential seen in Ms. Savage, her mentors stretched her imagination and shaped her ideals with Filipino artistry. She was also inspired by the works of Juan Luna and FelixResurreccion-Hildago. To her, their achievements are a testament to Filipinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to compete globally. Still, Ms. Savage looks up Jose Rizal as the ultimate hero, not only in history, but also in the arts. Ms. Savageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s involvement in many different fields is reflected in her endeavors to portray nature as it is. Aside from painting, she also appreciates the beauty of language. She obtained formal training in Italian, Spanish, Swedish, Norwegian, French, and German. The multiplicity of cultures, languages, and colors led her to visually and verbally express her art more effectively. Ms. Savage is not only engaged in the arts. Dedicating her life to many volunteer works, art auctions, and donations, she contributes the proceeds to different international organizations to benefit communities especially those affected by natural disasters. Working closely as a board member with different non-profit organizations such as MA-YI Theatre Company, Namaskaar Foundation-World on Stage, Thumbelina Fund, Stamford Art Association, and the Casa di Dante Circolo delgi Artisti, she promotes diversity in the arts and helps fund scholarships for young artists. Inspired by her passion to exhibit the serenity of nature, it is truly evident that Ms. Savage successfully touched the hearts of foreigners and traversed cultural boundaries. Her impressionistic technique, characterized by buoyant hues, challenges spectators to view the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s landscapes with much more depth, intensity, and ultimately, a deeper understanding.

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

In conferring the Pamana ng Pilipino Award to Lolita V. Savage, the President recognizes her artistic skills as a painter and for her artworks which were internationally exhibited in the US, Europe, and Asia.

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Sentiero a Salvadonica, 2004 - Mercatale, Tuscany - Oil-on-Canvas, 24 X 36 inches

Dancing Olive Tree, 2010, Siena, Italy - Oil-on-Canvas, 16 X 20 inches

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Olive Groves, 2003, France - Oil-on-Canvas, 16 X 24 inches

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Frutta Mista, 2009, Florence Italy - Oil-on-Canvas, 39.5 X 39.5 inches

Vicchiomaggio, 1982 Chianti, Italy, Oil-on-Canvas 36 X 48 inches

Serendipity and Serenity by Dominique Padilla Gallego* Serendipity - I first encountered Lolita Valderrama Savage through a painting in the dining room of an art collector whose collection included Matisses and Picassos. I was both stunned and pleased to discover that the artist was Filipina. Lolita's artistic

Morning Poppies, 1999 Chianti, Italy Oil-on-Canvas, 18 X 24 inches

journey began when she was a very young child. She didn't choose to be an artist. She knew instinctively it was her destiny. She could spend hours at a time drawing and her mother allowed her this pleasure. Lolita studied Fine Arts at the University of Santo Tomas, the oldest university in the Philippines, where she had access to the art of Philippine masters. After UST, Lolita studied in Florence, Italy as a pioneering Italian government scholar at the Accademia di Belle Arti and Sweden with Staffan Hallstrom to further hone her techniques and immerse herself in the work of European masters and popular contemporary artists. Today, despite the responsibilities of taking care of a global businessman 42

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Salvadonica, Mercatale, Tuscany, 2004 - Oil-on-Canvas, 39.5 X 39.5 inches

Westhill Snow, 1987, Stamford, CT, USA, Oil-on-Canvas, 16 X 20 inches

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

husband and nurturing three lovely and accomplished children, she manages to carve out highly cherished time to lose herself - in creativity, in a particular locality, in the intensity of the present to capture the beauty of what she beholds on canvass. Lolita prides herself in being a “fine artist.” Having been trained in the traditional painting techniques of the masters, she enjoys the hard work of painting like them, while personalizing these techniques with her own vision of the world. To see Lolita’s paintings is to meet her - up close and personal. Lolita entrusts a piece of her soul to each painting. Each work subtly mirrors her. Her children - as they were growing up - were often possessive of her work. Children are sensitive to these

Tra Due Cipressi, 2010 Italy Oil-on-Canvas, 16 X 20 inches

things. Whenever one of Lolita's collectors acquired a painting, her children always felt certain sadness - as if part of Lolita was going on a one way trip, to be lost forever. Antoine de Saint Exupery said " true love is inexhaustible; the more you give, the more you have. And if you go to draw at the true fountainhead, the more 45

Winter Calm, 1987, CT, USA - Oil-on-Canvas, 36 X 48 inches

water you draw, the more abundant its flow." So it is with Lolita's persona embedded in her art. Painting is part of her being. Her dedication to artistry reflects true love as she continues to paint with inexhaustible energy. Every collector who acquires Lolita's work merely partakes in limitless joy shared by her family, friends and other collectors - nothing is taken away from her loved ones. The visual artist can often be limited by personal biases and cultural predispositions. These limits saturate the artist's work and make the work less comprehensible to a wide audience. Lolita's work is special as her art contemplates a global consciousness - influenced by her own 46

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

personal journey across the globe, her cross-cultural family and her diverse set of friends. For example, Lolita's paintings feature landscapes that can be appreciated anywhere by people from all walks of life. They invite the viewer to quiet time, to calmness and contemplation. Sometimes, they invite the viewer to imagine stories. One favorite – Roussillon Tree (1994) depicts a tree in the sheer splendor of autumn and reflects such an exuberant burst of energy that one can imagine Romeo recklessly declaring his love for Juliette underneath the tree’s branches. Another favorite – French Forest (1981) – evokes the dreamy magic of fairy tales where one can imagine the uneven, remote landscape as part of an ancient kingdom whose leader recently triumphed in a battle over evil. Lolita paints evocative figures as well, such as the Knitting Lady of Iceland (1980); the woman could be anyone’s no-nonsense grandmother, at peace with herself and the world. Lolita’s paintings simultaneously reflect tranquility and color. Her brush strokes evoke subtle but constant movement - strokes reflective of Lolita’s own life journey. Lolita uses a bright color palate. Her paintings, like her, resonate with an irrepressible optimism combined with serenity. Her paintings are as appealing as colorful candy to a child holding her mother’s hand.

A Fisherman's Hut, 1987, China - Oil-on-Canvas 36 X 48 inches

The artist and the viewer may have different interpretations of a particular work. One could look at Lolita’s paintings and simply appreciate the world tour – from Philippine farmlands, to Florentine gardens, the American northeast, the Scandinavian forests, and many other places. One could look at them as an invitation to bask in the warm, tropical sun, to explore the mysterious forest pathways or to simply reflect on being, the beauty of nature and how nature itself is the artist's ideal. From the hopeful light of daytime scenes to the placid sunset seascapes, beach frolickers and a knitting grandmother, the thesis of beauty as part of life and nature, from beginning to end, resonates. From my first encounter with Lolita’s painting, I have been fortunate to meet Lolita in person and view more of her art. The openness, peace and optimism of Lolita's paintings indeed reflect her. I wholeheartedly agree with Saint-Exupery and hope that many will have the opportunity to see Lolita and her work at the L’Arte di Lolita Valderrama-Savage, Palazzo Medici-Riccardi, Via Cavour 1, Florence, Italy, from December 3, 2013 (6 p.m.) through January 2, 2014 and partake of the joy her work brings family, friends and existing collectors. *Ms. Gallego is a freelance writer based in Manila and New York, a selftaught art lover and a practicing lawyer.

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THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Sagingan, 1992 Philippines - Oil-on-Canvas, 22 X 28 inches

Winter Calm, 1987, CT, USA - Oil-on-Canvas, 36 X 48 inches Private Collection

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Fall Magic, 2000, CT USA - Oil-on-Canvas, 36 X 48 inches Private collection

“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” - Edgar Degas

Autumn Arrives, 2012, Chianti, Italy - Oil-on-Canvas, 39.5 X 39.5 inches

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L'Ultima Pianta, 2010, Florence, Italy - Oil-on-Canvas, 39.5 X 39.5 inches

Fall on the Rocks, 2010, CT, USA - Oil on-Canvas, 36 X 48 inches

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Garden at Villa Briganti, 1995, Chianti, Tuscany - Oil-on-Canvas, 20 X 24 inches

View of Menton, 2003, France - Oil-on-Canvas, 20 X 24 inches

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Spring Of Cypresses - Oil on Canvas, 39.5 x 39.5 inches

Roussillon Tree, 1994, France, - Oil-on-Canvas, 20 X 24 inches

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Path into the Forest, 2010, Italy - Oil-on-Canvas, 39.5 X 39.5 inches Private collection

The Harvest 2012, Philippines - Oil-on-Canvas, 16 X 20 inches Private collection

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am always doing that which I can not do, in order that I may learn how to do it.â&#x20AC;? -Pablo Picasso 60

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Pagliai di Fieno, 2012, Philippines, - Oil-on-Canvas, 16 X 20 inches

“I am seeking. I am striving. I am in it with all my heart.” -Vincent van Gogh

French Forest, 1981, Fontainebleau, France - Oil on Canvas 20 x 24 inches

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Coconut Grove, 2006, Philippines, from memory - Oil-on- canvas, 16 X 20 inches

Heart of the Woods, 1982, Sweden - Oil-on-Canvas, 36 X 48 inches

“Art is never f inished, only abandoned” -Leonardo Da Vinci

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Mighty Rocks, 1988, CT, USA - Oil-on-Canvas, 36 X 48 inches

Ponte di Luco, 2009, Spain, Oil-on-Canvas - 39.5 X 39.5 inches Private Collection

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Sommarstuga, 2010 Eskilstuna, Sweden - Oil-on-Canvas, 39.5 X 39.5 inches

Lochness, 2009, Scotland - Oil-on-Canvas, 39.5 X 39.5 inches

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Poppies, 2010, Tuscany, Italy - Oil-on-Canvas, 39.5 X 39.5 inches Private Collection

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Aix-en-Provence, France, 1994 - Oil-on-Canvas, 20 X 24 inches

“Have no fear of perfection, you'll never reach it.” -Salvador Dali

Sun's Goodbye, 2013, Tuscany, Italy - Oil on Canvas, 39.5 X 39.5 inches

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Girasoli Toscani, 2010, Italy - Oil-on-canvas, 39.5 X 39.5 inches

Vita Nuova, 2013 - Leon, Spain - Oil on Canvas, 39.5 X 39.5 inches Private Collection

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Elements, 2013, Florence, Italy - Oil on Canvas, 39.5 x 39.5 inches

The Valley Of Orcia, 2013, Siena, Italy - Oil on Canvas, 39.5 x 39.5 inches

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Caribbean Sunset, 2013 - Oil on Canvas, 39.5 x 39.5 inches

â&#x20AC;&#x153;If I could say it in words there would be no reason to paint.â&#x20AC;? -Edward Hopper

Panzano, 1996, Chianti, Italy, Oil Pastels on Canvas, 20 X 24 inches Private collection

Il Roseto di Dino, 1996, Ferrone, Tuscany, Italy Oil Pastels on Canvas, 24 X 30 inches

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Gate to Cezanne's Studio, 1994, France Oil-on-Canvas, 20 X 24 inches Private collections

Villa Briganti Garden, 1996, Italy Oil-on-Canvas, 20 X 24 inches Private collection

Palazzo Uguccioni, Piazza della Signoria 7

Florence, Italy, Lolita's Terrace"

exhibitions

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Lolita's paintings are in private and corporate collections in USA, Europe, and Asia.

ONE-WOMAN-EXHIBITIONS

Arbetarnasbildingsforbund* Eskilstuna, Sweden

1975

1977 Galleri Origo* Stockholm, Sweden

Asterisks indicate Centro D'Incontro per Stranieri Palazzo Strozzi,, Florence, Italy

VOLVO BM* Eskilstuna, Sweden

Galleria Il Cenacolo Florence, Italy

Galleri Arosgarden* Vasteras, Sweden Folket's Tidning* Eskiltuna, Sweden

Movimento Christiano Lavoratori Florence, Italy

California State University International Program Florence, Italy

1978 Frobel Galleri* Norrkoping, Sweden

Galleria Borgo Pinti Florence, Italy

1979 Private Exhibitions* New York City

Centro di Cultura e Galleria Lo Sprone* Florence, Italy

1982 Thirteen Collections Sotheby's and Channel 13 New York, New York USA

Elverket* Eskilstuna, Sweden

1976 Arbetsformedlingen* Eskilstuna, Sweden

Corporate Commissions: Integrated Corporation Cleveland, Ohio, USA

Mount Dora Art Festival Orlando, Florida, USA 81

Gertrude White Gallery, 1986, 1987, 1989, 1992, Greenwich, CT, USA

Deloitte Haskins and Sells New York, New York USA

Stamford Festival of the Arts Stamford, CT, USA, 1986, 1987, 1988

1984 through 1989 Stamford Art Association Gallery Regular Members' Exhibitions Stamford, Connecticut, USA

The Ferguson Library Stamford, CT, USA, 1986, 1987, 1990

1986 Greenwich Art Center Gallery* Greenwich, CT, USA

1987 The Westin Hotel/Stamford Art Association Stamford, CT, USA

Easter Seal Rehabilitation Center* Stamford, CT, USA

The Landmark Gallery* Stamford, CT, USA, 1987, 1989

The World Institute of Black Communications Artistry in Motion New York, New York, USA

The Eagle Tower Gallery* Stamford, CT, USA

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

1989 Cabletelevision of Connecticut* Norwalk, CT, USA

1999 The World Economic Forum Davos, Switzerland Casa di Dante*, Florence, Italy

The Mayor's Gallery, City Hall Stamford, CT, USA, 1989, 1990

2006 Contact Art Gallery, Paris, France

1990 The New Yorker Club New York, New York, USA

Art for Peace Auction Victoria and Albert Museum London, UK

1991 UNESCO Headquarters Paris, France

2008 The Philippine Embassy* Washington, DC, USA

1993 The Consulate General of the Philippines* Philippine Center New York, New York, USA

The Philippine Center on Fifth Avenue* New York New York, USA

Peg Alston Fine Arts Gallery* New York, New York, USA, 1993, 2008

2010 Salvadonica* Mercatale, VP, Florence, Italy

Stamford Historical Society Stamford, CT, USA

The University of Santo Tomas Museum* Manila, Philippines

1996 Stamford Museum and Nature Center Stamford, CT, USA

2011 The AYALA Museum* Manila, Philippines

Skycom Geneva Business Center* Geneva, Switzerland

2013 The Medici-Riccardi Museum* Florence, Italy

1997 Stamford Center for the Arts* Stamford, CT, USA

Palazzo Medici-Riccardi, Florence, Italy

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Poppy Fields,1995, Radda in Chianti, Tuscany - Oil-on-Canvas, 20 X 24 inches

Vitalita, 2002, Siena, Italy - Oil-on-Canvas, 36 X 48 inches

THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE

Sunset, 2008, Cetona, Siena, Italy - Oil-on-Canvas, 12 X 14 inches Private Collection

I shall begin by saying that the paintings of Lolita Valderrama which are mainly dedicated to landscapes can be deciphered immediately. In effect, every angle of her landscape is slowly and conscientiously studied with the appropriate expressive mediums. She uses clear tones of blue and green, manipulating her subjects with great care. Everything is revealed in a candid spirit that one cannot forget, in a climate of solitude linked to a sentiment of identity with the very essence of reality. On canvas, she creates her little paradise which she perceives with her colorful eyes. It is an open and gentle world that one will always remember. She is humble, a rare quality and has faith. She works with tenacity and this is how I have always known her. Her paintings, modulated and loved, relate a story consecrated to contemplation .....for a silent meditation. - Professor Silvio Loffredo Accademia di Belle Arti, Florence, Italy

My heartfelt thanks to my loving family and friends in all parts of the world for their encouragement, support, and inspiration. I thank the universal force that unite us together to learn, understand and love one another through the beauty of art. -Lolita

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ARTIST'S STATEMENT

Art is a natural gift which I have been fortunate to receive. It has given me the extraordinary ability to express the most beautiful human feelings and sentiments that one could ever experience and share with other human beings. Art is a vehicle that has taken me thousands of miles away from my place of origin to foreign lands enabling me to acquire deep knowledge, understanding, and sensitivity to the uniqueness of every country, landscapes its people and its culture. My painting has brought me so much joy that its purpose has now taken multiple meanings in my life. Art has made me realize that this talent, unique in an individual, may be further enhanced from its sole purpose of personal expression into becoming an instrument for finding solutions to achieve humanitarian progress. In my recent exhibitions, creating art has takem me up to a new level because it has enabled me to help children, promote education and bring people together to forge friendships and cultural cooperation. As I paint NATURE my favorite subject, I see reflected in the colors of breathing landscapes all the beauty and complexities of human life....then comes the power of inspiration running through my veins, my soul, and my hands. Lolita Valderrama Savage Email: lolitasavage@aol.com THE ART OF LOLITA VALDERRAMA SAVAGE