Coeli Manese worships through paintings

For the 36th iteration of Conrad Manila’s distinguished Of Art and Wine exhibition series at Gallery C, a soulful quietude fills the space through the artistry of Coeli Manese. Her solo show, aptly titled The Light That Never Goes Out, invites viewers to breathe, reflect, and believe once again in the presence of something, someone divine.

Coeli is a technically-oriented artist who works primarily with oil, acrylic paint, and mixed media to create works centered on reflection and spirituality. She began painting professionally in 2018 and has since developed a unique method to abstract expressionism that is solely personal, always deliberate, and forever grounded in faith.

In 2019, she earned a Certificate in Curating and a Certificate in Arts Marketing from the Sotheby’s Institute of Art in London. The following year, she completed In the Studio: Post-War Abstract Painting and Modern Art and Ideas course under the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

“These awesome experiences have not only refined my artistic practice but also given me valuable insights into the art world, allowing me to stay current and inspired,” Coeli shared.

The Light That Never Goes Out explores the transformative power of divine love, resilience and peace, through a spiritually resonant collection of paintings. Motivated by biblical teachings and infused with symbolic colors, each artwork invites the viewer to immerse themselves in the eternal, guiding light of faith. This solo display delves into three core themes. Eternal Light represents God’s unwavering presence and divine nature; Inner Illumination illustrates the Holy Spirit’s guidance and transformative power; and Resilient Hope, depicts faith’s triumph over adversity.

With these concepts, Coeli’s color palette likewise takes on a muted, yet still regal style. Payne’s grey conveys wisdom, faith, and spiritual growth. Titan buff evokes divine presence and warmth. Turquoise stands for protection and healing. Burnt sienna signals humility and devotion. White radiates purity and redemption, while cream speaks of divine love and gentleness. She also incorporates neutral greys, suggesting balance and hope.

“I’ve been enjoying combining acrylic and gouache to create different textures on the canvas,” she explained. “Rather than using colors straight from the tube, I mix my paint with Golden mediums to achieve thin or thick, fluid consistencies.”

Coeli refers to her artistic style as Earthwhisper, a term which captures a deep connection to nature expressed through fluid movement and soft, earthly tones.

“Earthwhisper suggests a style that’s deeply connected to the natural world, with a subtle, nuanced approach. The word ‘whisper’ implies a soft, gentle touch, which fits well with my use of fluid paints and emphasis on earthy tones,” she described. “Earthwhisper is about capturing the essence of the natural world in a way that’s both personal and universal. It’s about finding beauty in the everyday, the overlooked, and the simple. Through fluid movement, earthy tones, and the play of light, it brings the viewer closer to the land and to themselves.”

Despite her technical achievements, Coeli remains grounded to a higher calling.

“I’m grateful for the gifts and talents God has given me, and I’m committed to using them to bring glory to His name,” she affirmed. “As an artist, I strive to create works that reflect His beauty, creativity, and love, inspiring others to seek Him and experience His joy.”

“To aspiring artists, I offer this advice: stay true to your unique voice and vision, practice consistently, and learn from others. Network with fellow artists, attend workshops, and embrace feedback to grow in your craft. Most importantly, remember that your talents are gifts from God, and use them to serve others and bring Him glory,” she said.

Like all the Of Art and Wine shows, The Light That Never Goes Out is curated by Nes Jardin, consultant of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation and the gentleman behind the program, where artists both new and established, find a home. It is organized in cooperation with Space Alt Contemporary.

The exhibit will be on view from 15 July to 13 September, at Gallery C, Conrad Manila in Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. The paintings are available individually for purchase. For more information, contact Conrad Manila at +632 8833-9999 or email Ruston.Dongaol@ConradHotels.com.

¡Enhorabuena, Coeli Manese!