Fil-Am actress’ ‘exquisite paintings’ showcased in NY exhibit

United States-based Filipino stage actress Ching Valdes-Aran will hold a three-week exhibit featuring paintings that focus on the "ethereal and intangible quality of memory."

The exhibit, titled "Reflections and Devotion," will be held  from July 14 to August 8 and will also feature the works of Valdes-Aran's niece, Nicole Valdes Schorr.

The exhibit, to be hosted by the Philippine Center gallery in New York City, will have an opening reception on July 14 sponsored by San Miguel Beer.

A veteran and in demand actress who has worked with famed directors including Michael Greif ("Dogeaters"), George C. Wolfe ("The Wild Party"), and Moises Kaufman ("Macbeth"), and is currently appearing in celebrated director Lav Diaz’s “Mula Sa Kung Ano Ang Noon” as well as appearing in countless movies ("Across the Universe" and "Sex and The City 1"), Valdes-Aran has been painting for many years.

Her first US solo show, titled "Ching Valdes-Aran: New and Selected Works," premiered at the Philippine Center in 2012.

A press release from the Philippine Center Management Board said Valdes-Aran's "exquisite paintings plunge the viewer into the experience of reflection."

The works of Valdes-Schorr, on the other hand, "suggests the passion and devotion of a love story through prayer."

"Her magnetic portraiture presents a juxtaposition against Valdes-Aran’s classic impressionist style Valdes Schorr infusing a unique and vibrant take on traditional catholic archetypes," the Philippine Center Management Board said.

Valdes-Aran was born in San Nicolas in Ilocos Norte who now lives and works in New York City. Valdes-Schorr is a New York native who graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design. She currently works as a visual arts teacher. —KBK, GMA News