Kuhlein Migue

Strange Serenity

"Strange Serenity" is a piece that explores the tensions of belonging through unsettling imagery of the self and the body. To evoke a sense of discomfort, I drew inspiration from Francis Bacon's paintings and how he distorted anatomy to create grotesque and emotionally charged figures. Initially a study of the body's underlying structure, the figure became more inaccurate and chaotic as the layers of paint built up, ultimately creating disorienting imagery.

Artist Biography

Kuhlein Migue is a multidisciplinary artist based in Calgary. Born and raised in the Philippines, she draws inspiration from her cultural identity to create works that explore the Filipino diaspora in a contemporary context. Her work has been displayed at the Arts Commons as part of the RBC Emerging Visual Artist Exhibition and she is one of the recipients of the Alberta Society of Artists 2023 Undergraduate Scholarship. She is currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Visual Arts at the University of Calgary.

Artist statement

My work is informed by my Filipino cultural identity and personal experiences with immigration. Through a research-driven practice, I explore the Philippines’ colonial history and its implications on identity formation. I also address the realities of immigration and the tensions of belonging. Mythology, colours, and motifs integral to Filipino culture influence the figuration in my art. Intricate details of traditional clothing, textiles, and the wide range of flora spread across the Philippine islands are also infused within my work. Through painting, drawing, and sculpture, I aim to create a space for dialogue about the complexities of belonging, while also celebrating one of Canada’s largest immigrant groups.

How did you start your art practice?

Since I was thirteen years old, I have been working with various mediums such as coloured pencils and oil paint to create portraits. I developed a passion for photorealistic drawings, finding solace in the meticulous attention to detail it required. However, what started out as realistic depictions of pop culture icons started to progress into more conceptual paintings that merges realism and abstraction as I started my education at the University of Calgary.

Instagram: @kuhlein.m