Patrick Fernandez: Panata Sa Anito (Faith in the Spirit)

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Patrick Fernandez, "Panata Sa Anito (Faith in the Spirit), 2021

Opening reception with Patrick Fernandez: Friday, August 20, 6:00 PM. 

Stop by and say hello to Patrick! Neutral Ground will provide refreshments and Patrick has generously prepared a Pilipino treat!

Anito, also spelled anitu, refers to ancestral spirits, nature spirits, and deities in the indigenous Philippine folk religions from the pre-colonial age to the present. These spirits could dwell in particular objects, such as stones or posts, which some early peoples would set up in likely places. Certain venerated spirits (or gods) were also identified with thunder, sun, moon, hunting, childbirth, and the winds. Evil spirits might be incarnate in animal or monstrous forms and could cause disease or other misfortunes. Panata Sa Anito aims to explore these ancient beliefs and the effects of recent changes in animism traditions, in contrast to the more recent development of organized religions. The artist challenges viewers to examine their own belief systems, imagining the possibility of conscious life within the inanimate. Fernandez emphasizes that “Faith in the Spirit” creates a stronger connection with the land we dwell on, giving us a deeper sense of belonging.

Patrick B. Fernandez is a contemporary visual artist who lives and works in Regina, Saskatchewan. Born in the Philippines, he paints using symbolism and reimagined folklore imagery as a means of storytelling. His works are based on personal experiences that deal with displacement, coping, taking chances and using circumstances as turning points for growth. Fernandez’s work has been shown in exhibitions in the Philippines, South East Asia, North America and Europe. As an active community leader, Fernandez has founded and led several art collectives in the Philippines, as well as organizing various art festivals and community events in his province in Pangasinan. He moved to Regina in 2017 to join his wife and to continue his commitment to community engagement. He currently serves as a Board Member for the Art Gallery of Regina and as a Gallery Director for Exhibitions Designs at The Woods Artspace.