This painting by Michael Albano captures a precious moment from his childhood, captured on the wall of Batang Pinangga. The image shows a vivid scene of children playing in the river, accompanied by Tarso, the children's home's beloved carabao. The painting evokes memories of one of Michael and his friends' favourite pastimes when they were little: playing carefree in the water, together with their faithful companion.
The children are depicted in their element, happily playing in the river, while the carabao quietly follows them. The river symbolises not only nature as a playground, but also the bonds the children share with their environment and each other. The painting reminds us of the simplicity of childlike fun and the strong connection between humans and animals, something of great importance in Batang Pinangga.
Michael Albano, who often bases his paintings on his personal experiences, has not only preserved a piece of his own past with this work, but also brought a piece of Batang Pinangga to the viewer. The painting offers a visual reminder of the playful, carefree time of childhood in Batang Pinangga and shows how nature and friendship go hand in hand. It is a call to embrace the childlike wonder of the world, just as Michael did as a child with his friends and the carabao Tarso.
Michael Albano: An Artist with an Extraordinary Journey
Michael Albano is a talented painter and artist with an inspiring life story. As a young child, Michael ended up living on the streets of the Philippines, a harsh and uncertain environment where he was unable to simply be a child...
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