Watercolor abstractionist Micat Po evokes 'healing power of nature' in 1st solo exhibit

MANILA, Philippines — Young local artist Caterina "Micat" Po is all set for her first-ever solo show, "Seeing Beyond: Images From The Subconscious," featuring her watercolor abstractions that detail her close relationship with nature.

As a graduate of the University of Hawai'i with a degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Management, Po's artworks often draw from the environment.

In an exclusive interview with Philstar.com, Po shared how "Seeing Beyond" finally came to be and how significant it is being in touch with the Earth.

Po has been working as a marine ecologist and researcher abroad since graduating and was about to take a job in the local conservation industry, however, she felt she could do more through her artworks.

After making several pieces, "diving timing" got Po connected with Marti Magsanoc, the director of Archivo Gallery, which will host her month-long exhibit curated by Sandra Palomar.

All the pieces Po will display are watercolor on paper, sharing she has a strong connection to the medium.

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"It offers a certain vulnerability that I haven't experienced with other mediums that I find really special. 'Mistakes' and all, everything makes its way to the paper," Po said, adding her painting is a "practice of full acceptance and letting go of shame and perfectionism."

Po recounted being asked if watercolor is difficult to "control" as a medium, admitting she finds it easier to convey feelings and energy through the water as it feels alive and raw.

"My practice is really about allowing the images to unfold and embracing the mystery of creation," Po explained, comparing it to a dance. "I enjoy the mystery of seeing where it goes, it's part of my goal to allow boundless creativity."

Shifting into the environment, Po said she discovered the "healing power of nature" after studying outside of Manila and her marine ecology job taking her to "places on earth where the trees and rocks and rivers talked."

"The mountains watched over me. The ocean cradled me. When I feel most alone on this planet I know that nature is always there for me. Plants have always offered a listening ear