We're Not Saying We're Badasses, But....
Okay, maybe we are a little.
The dictionary defines the word badass as an informal and sometimes impolite term that means “ready to cause or get into trouble” or “of formidable strength or skill.”
Well, you can bet your cargo shorts we’re informal. Although we don’t think we’re being impolite, we see nothing wrong with being irreverent. We certainly don’t want to be troublesome; we just want to rock the establishment—and we aim to become formidable enough to do so. That’s our vision: Become a force to be reckoned with in the bright, bold, future Philippine art scene. Or international, who knows?
Why Badass?
What’s the name of your gallery? The answer never fails to elicit a smile. Or outright laughter. But you can bet your badass we’re dead serious about this business.
Let's be honest: The art world needs a good shake-up, a jolt of electricity, a… well, an injection of badass-ness. And that's where we come in.
Badass Art Gallery is here to light a fire under the traditional art scene, and then do a celebratory dance around the bonfire. We're radical, disruptive, fun. We believe art should be vibrant and engaging; most of all, it should also be accessible to anyone interested in it.
We showcase not just the works, but the artists—their stories, their inspirations, their weirdest dreams (we all have them). Why buy an artwork without knowing the creative blood, honest sweat, and maybe a few panicked tears that went into its creation? We want people to connect with art on a deeper level, to understand the "why" and "how" behind each piece.
Our Mission (We Have a Few, and They’re Pretty Awesome)
Jolt the art scene with a much—needed shot of adrenaline. We're not here to replace the old guard, just give them a friendly nudge (with a motorcycle, maybe—did we mention we’re badass bikers?).
Put a face to the art. The artist cannot be separated from the art, Grasshopper. To understand the artwork, we must get to know the artist: their motivations, life experiences, favorite pizza toppings… you know, the important stuff. We believe in celebrating the creators, not just their creations.
Demonstrate that art should benefit the artist (and buy them a decent cup of coffee). Artists deserve to thrive, not just survive. We aim to nurture up-and-coming artists and raw talents to hopefully develop the next generation of artistic badasses.
Un-intimidate aspiring art buyers and newbie collectors. Yes, “un-intimidate” is a word—a Badass word. Who says you should only buy from famous artists to appreciate art? Not to worry, art enthusiasts: We'll help you navigate the art world without losing your shirt (or your sanity).
Spread the love for various art forms, from painting and sculpture to poetry, music, dance, and theater. Who says you can’t be a Renaissance person in the 21st century? We want to share our love for all forms of art with all who are interested, because yes, art is for everyone. And we’re going to hold classes and teach them.
Behind the Gallery
The three partners behind this ass-kicking idea are a motley crew of professionals, art lovers, and badass big-bike riders (because why not?).
AJ Pelayre is an architect by profession, a property administrator, a general contractor, farmer, trader, and photographer - and a lover of motorcycles. Yes, all that, because he can multitask and look good doing it.
Dr. Reginald Santos is a medical director with a secret passion for the arts. He wanted to go to art school but decided to be a good son and fulfill his parents' hopes for him to become a doctor - and he did good. But the dream has never faded despite his successes in the medical field. This gallery is his personal journey, the pursuit of a dream deferred.
Tamerlane Urao is a professional artist, graphic designer, and photographer. Now he's the one who did go to art school. He'd already discovered his God-given talent much earlier, but professionally, he realized that graphic design and photography will help earn his keep while he chases a long-cherished dream: to open an art gallery.
The three friends met in the course of their daily work lives, and over several sessions shooting the breeze over coffee, whisky, beer, and pistachio nuts, Badass Art Gallery took shape.
