Art is Everywhere
Oliver Rabara - Sparked By Stars
Christmas traditions celebrate Christ’s birth and the redemption of man. It is symbolized
by various objects as expressions of faith and meaning. For my installation, I present
the “Star(s)”, as the historical narrative on the Three Kings’ visit to child Jesus in the
manger. The big star guided them to reach the place where Jesus was born.
My art on the star is called “parol” (star lantern) in the Filipino culture. It is star shaped
with ring (glow) and tails (spark). The “parol” simulates the kaleidoscope of colors in the
star, with a glowing light (surrounding ring with fringes or garland) and a spark like a
diving comet (tail). It is made of bamboo stick structure and covered with various
materials that are usually transparent or translucent to allow bulbs installed from the
inside to radiate bright colors on the outside. I used waste materials for this installation
to campaign also the environmental call for reusing, recycling and reducing. When the
“parol” is decorated at home, it imparts the message of hope.
About Oliver
Oliver Rabara is a Filipino fine artist who lives permanently in Canada. He is active in the Edmonton art scene through various engagements in cultural events and exhibits. He loves painting, sculpture, craft design, photography, poetry, and connecting through cultural exchanges. He also delivers training, art workshops, and cultural research and is connected with two Edmonton newspapers, writing about Business and the role of Art in Development.
IG: @rabarao
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