ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Maia Cruz Palileo's Dreamlike Paintings at David Kordansky Gallery

exhibition · 2026-07-31

Maia Cruz Palileo, a versatile artist, draws inspiration from their family's immigration journey from the Philippines to the United States, expressing this through paintings, sculptures, and installations. Their solo exhibition at David Kordansky Gallery in New York, which runs from September 10 to October 24, signifies a transition from traditional portraits to surreal, dreamlike works. Palileo's art delves into Filipino cultural histories and the lasting impacts of colonialism, often serving as a means of reclamation. Having recently relocated to the mid-Hudson Valley, an area linked to the Hudson River School painters, they reflect on early American colonialism and themes of possession. Palileo refers to the exhibition as 'a love letter to painting,' highlighting the Filipino concept of 'pakikiramdam,' or the emotional resonance of all senses. The immersive paintings depict figures that blend into rich landscapes. Additionally, the artist's work is featured in Galerie Magazine's Fall 2026 issue under 'Artists to Watch.'

Key facts

  • Maia Cruz Palileo's solo show at David Kordansky Gallery in New York runs from September 10 to October 24.
  • The exhibition marks a shift from portraits to dreamlike compositions.
  • Palileo's work is informed by their family's immigration story from the Philippines to the U.S.
  • The artist recently moved to the mid-Hudson Valley, influencing their perspective on landscape painting.
  • Palileo incorporates the Filipino psychological concept 'pakikiramdam' into the show.
  • The paintings feature figures entangled with dense landscapes, creating an immersive effect.
  • Palileo's practice includes paintings, sculptures, and installations.
  • The artist's work challenges dominant understandings of identity and belonging.

Entities

Artists

  • Maia Cruz Palileo

Institutions

  • David Kordansky Gallery
  • Galerie Magazine

Locations

  • New York
  • United States
  • Philippines
  • Hudson Valley

Sources