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CCP Art Collection goes to BenCab Museum

The Cultural Center of the Philippines in partnership with the BenCab Museum launches two new exhibitions: Visions on Paper and Chronicles in Ink: Philippine Printmaking through the Decades, opening at the BenCab Museum’s Sepia Gallery and Gallery Indigo, respectively, on view until September 2024.

Both traveling exhibitions aim to showcase significant works of Filipino visual artists from the CCP 21st Century Art Museum (21AM) Collection. This exhibition program, organized by the CCP Visual Arts and Museum Division with support from the BenCab Museum, is a continuation of the CCP’s ongoing pursuit of making the collection accessible to a wider audience while the CCP Main Theater Building is undergoing rehabilitation.

Nena in Paris by Benedicto Cabrera.

 

Visions on Paper, exhibited at the BenCab Museum’s Sepia Gallery, presents selected works by National Artists of the Philippines. Exploring quieter forms of abstraction, portraiture, and even rhythmic composition, the exhibition aims to highlight the artist’s creative process through works on paper. Sketches reveal thoughts and ideas transferred onto paper, looking into the artist’s inner worlds with works such as a self-portrait by National Artist for Visual Art BenCab, as well as National Artist for Literature Amado Hernandez’s words inscribed on National Artist for Theater and Music Atang de la Rama’s wooden fan.

In the BenCab Museum’s Gallery Indigo, the exhibition Chronicles in Ink: Philippine Printmaking through the Decades presents a sampling of the art of contemporary printmaking in the Philippines. With works spanning from the 1950s to the 2010s, the exhibition visualizes the range of artistic expressions and practices of generations of Filipino artists that have made significant contributions to Philippine printmaking.

The participating artists are National Artists Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera, Felipe de Leon, Atang dela Rama, Victorio Edades, Amado Hernandez, Jose Joya, Arturo Luz, H.R. Ocampo, and Guillermo Tolentino.

Untitled by Arturo Luz

 

Works of various artists are also showcased namely Jose Garcia Villa, Joseph Abando. Ambie Abaño, Raymundo Albano, Ivi Avellana-Cosio, Virgilio Aviado, Santiago Bose, Mars Bugaoan, Benjie Cabangis, Benjamin Torrado Cabrera, Jandy Carvajal, Florencio B. Concepcion, Evelyn David, Cian Dayrit, Fil Delacruz, Noell El Farol, Imelda Cajipe Endaya, Josefina Escudero, Brenda Fajardo, Lynden Garcia , Ofelia Gelvezon-Tequi, Bernadette Gular-Becares, Ojeng Jocano, Flora Mauleon, Omar Noble, Romulo Olazo, Nonon Padilla , Rod. Paras-Perez, Rhoda Recto, Cenon Rivera, Manuel Rodriguez, Sr., Marcelino Rodriguez, Rodolfo Samonte, Danny Sola, Manuel Soriano, Des Tenorio, and Efren Zaragoza.

Aside from the exhibitions, CCP and BenCab Museum will be hosting public programs such as guided tours and printmaking workshops organized in partnership with the Association of Pinoyprintmakers. These public programs aim to familiarize the general public with different forms of artmaking while broadening their appreciation for Philippine art and culture.

Both exhibitions opened last August 3, 2024 (Saturday), 4PM at the BenCab Museum. Visions on Paper at Sepia Gallery runs until September 1, 2024, while Chronicles in Ink: Philippine Printmaking through the Decades at Gallery Indigo runs until September 29, 2024.

To get the latest updates on the exhibitions Visions on Paper and Chronicles in Ink: Philippine Printmaking through the Decades, follow the official CCP Visual Arts and Museum Division (CCP VAMD) and BenCab Museum social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.

#CCP #BenCabMuseum #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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ManilART 2024: Reflecting the Radiance of Filipino Artistic Expression

ManilART, the country’s national art fair, returns this year with the theme “Prisms & Mosaics,” highlighting the multifaceted nature of contemporary Filipino art. Set to run from October 9-13, 2024, at the SMX Aura Convention Center, this year’s event is a dynamic celebration of diversity, complexity, and interconnectedness in artistic expression. This theme aligns with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)’s 2024 Museums and Galleries Month theme, “Ani ng Sining, Bayang Malikhain” (Art’s Harvest, A Creative Nation), which emphasizes that the abundant harvest of Filipino creativity stems from the nation’s collective imagination.

Exploring Multiple Perspectives and Collective Visions
As a prism refracts a beam of light into different wavelengths and spectra of colors, contemporary Filipino art encompasses a breadth of perspectives, techniques, and stories. Artists draw from a wellspring of inspiration: from history and traditional folklore to global trends and emerging schools of thought. While each facet retains its unique qualities, collaboration is crucial, connecting and enhancing each artist’s contribution and enriching the overall picture. Much like a mosaic, where distinct pieces form a cohesive image, art fairs and the Philippine arts and cultural scene unite individual talents into a collective celebration of artistic expression — in this unity, the whole becomes greater than the sum of its parts. This emphasis on collaboration reflects the Filipino spirit, known for its bayanihan, where collectivism is deeply rooted in our cultural heritage.

Myriad Expressions and Creativity in the Time of AI
This year’s roster explodes with diverse offerings that interpret the theme in both figurative and literal ways. Among the anticipated exhibits is the showcase and biographical book launch of glass master Ramon Orlina. The three-dimensional lineup includes works in glass and crystal by powerhouse Marge Organo, oversized iridescent wall-bound metalworks by Ombok Villanueva, woven wood functional art by Agi Pagkatipunan, giant brass insects and birds by Jik Villanueva, and filigreed translucent ostrich egg carvings by ManilART Head Curator Danny Rayos del Sol. Two-dimensional works include masterworks by Romulo Galicano, surreal figurative semi-murals by Darby Alcoseba, works of cultural iconography by Adeste Deguilmo, ethereal whimsical expressionism by Joe Marie Sanclaria, and bold impastos and cutting-edge glasswork by the all-female power trio of Anna Orlina, Bea Policarpio, and Abby Añover.

A special multimedia exhibit entitled “Plugged Into Fernalia— Art in the Age of AI” will juxtapose AI-generated works alongside human-made art given a set of specially-curated prompts and seeks to explore the complex interplay of technology and human creativity. Gromyko Semper assembles a roster of local and international artists to participate in this ambitious project. The lineup includes Noel Sadicon, Joshua Palisoc, Pen Medina, Isobel Francisco, Jonathan Benitez, Maria Magdamit, Judeo Herrera, Gilbert Semillano, Cheryl Hironaka, Glenn Martinez, Ali Alejandro, Roman Padilla, Angelo Padilla, Paul Benjamin Hilario, Jopeter Arias, Hermino Tan, John Melvin Garcia, Joyce Pertez, Rem Kulas, AJ Pascua, Jascha Tolentino, Vince Balandra, Raeun Ramos, James Koehnline, Christian Townsend, and Peter Gric.

Museums and Galleries Month partners and satellites

The five-day fair is co-presented by the National Commission on Culture and the Arts and ManilART Foundation, and banners Museums and Galleries Month in October, and coincides with satellite shows around the country.

 

ManilART’24 is supported by partners Museo Orlina, The City of Taguig, SM Supermalls, SMX Convention Center, Ladder Events Production, Vision Prime Media, Future Studios, Design Phoundry, Ticketbooth.ph, Via Mare Catering, Pure Foods Deli, BDO, MOD Coffee, Grentek Solutions, Marco Polo Ortigas, Art Caravan, and Sebastiao Cocktails. Media partners include ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC), The Philippine Star, Inquirer.net, Metro, Inquirer Pop!, The Manila Times, Manila Bulletin, Preen.ph, Business Mirror, Peoples Journal, WhenInManila.com, Scout, Pilipino Mirror, Nolisoli.ph, Klik.ph, Cebu Daily News, Experience Travel & Living, Hue TVEverywhere, Malaya Business Insight, Manila Standard, and Alike.

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ManilART’24 tickets are available at Ticketbooth.ph. For group tours and school groups, email manilartsecretariat@gmail.com. For more details and the official activities calendar, follow our social media pages at ManilART on Facebook and @manilartfair on Instagram or  visit www.manilartfair.com.

 

#ManilART2024 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Cinemalaya XX Pays Tribute To Filipino Cinema Legends

The Philippines lost many of its beloved filmmamers, actors, production crew, and cinematic champions in recent years. In its 20th year, the Cinemalaya pays tribute to Filipino film stalwarts who helped shape the landscape of Philippine cinema industry through the decades.

This year, Cinemalaya Tributes puts the spotlight on director Armando Lao, actress Jaclyn Jose, National Artist Fernando Poe Jr. and fim curator-archivist Teddy Co.

These individuals have accomplished many greats and made extensive impact during their lifetime, served as inspirations to new breed of filmmakers, and initiated conversations on truthful storytelling through their works.

An awarded and revered Filipino screenwriter, Lao wrote remarkable films such as Takaw-Tukso, Itanong mo sa Buwan, and Oras-Oras, Araw Araw. Beyond his screenwriting career, he founded the “found story” school of filmmaking over 40 years ago.

Jose was one of the most respected film actresses of the Philippines during her time. She made a name for herself and became the first Filipino actress to win the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival for her portrayal in Ma’Rosa.

Known as “Da King” in the industry, Poe Jr. was not only an actor but also a writer, director and producer. He made approximately 300 movies in his 48-year career. He was known for his films such as Only the Brave Know Hell, Santiago!, and Adesillo.

A curator and archivist, Co worked hard in preserving the PH’s artistic heritage through film preservation and archiving. He also founded Cinema Rehiyon, one of the flagship projects of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) aims to highlight and mainstream regional filmmaking.

Join Cinemalaya 20 to honor these individuals with special screenings of their works.

To pay tribute to Lao and Jose, Brilliante Mendoza’s Ma’Rosa will be screened on August 8 at 8:30pm, at Ayala Malls Manila Bay Cinema 2. The film is about a well-liked small convenience store owner in a poor neighborhood of Manila and her struggles leading her resort in selling drugs.

Celso Ad Castillo’s Asedillo, a biopic first shown back in 1971, is a tribute film to Fernando Poe Jr. This film showcases the story of Teodoro Asedillo, the terror of Sierra Madre. Set in San Antonio, San Pedro, Laguna, Asedillo is an idealistic school teacher who became a revolutionary leader against the American Commonwealth government. Catch the film on August 9, 1pm, at the Metropolitan Theater.

Tribute to Co centers on short films, which he championed throughout his career. A selection of Cinemalaya short films – City of Flowers by Xeph Suarez, Duwa-Duwa by Nena Jane Achacoso, Mga Hundas Nga Nasulat Sa Baras by Richard Jeroui Salvadico and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay, See You George by Mark Moneda, and Si Oddie by Maria Kydylee Torato – will return to the big screen on August 7, 1pm, at Metropolitan Theater.

A story about a couple’s attempt to survive the dip in their flower farm business, City of Flowers by Xeph Suarez and Alemberg Ang is a story about how this couple tries to push through their struggles for the birth of their first-born child. Set in Zamboanga City during the Feast of the Nativity of Mary, the couple was given an opportunity to solve all their problems that were too good to pass up.

Nena Jane Achacoso’s Duwa-duwa is a film about a runaway daughter who comes home for anything but reuniting with her mother. Because of her need for money to support an operation, the daughter comes back home to steal from her mother.

Set in the time of the COVID Pandemic, Mga Hundas nga Nasulat sa Baras is a story about three boys who became teachers to their parents. This film by Arlie Sweet Sumagasaysay and Richard Jeroui Salvadico depicts how parents become teachers to their children, and how children become teachers to their parents as well.

See you, George by Mark Moneda is a film about a group of hospital workers who take a trip down memory lane. Because they wanted to commemorate the life of one of their colleagues who died, they gathered together to celebrate their memories but it turned dark and haunting.

To make ends meet with his mother’s medical needs, the fictional story of this delivery rider is shown in Maria Kydylee Torato’s Si Oddie. Since we are living in an add-to-cart era, Torato’s film shows the audiences the important role of delivery riders in our lives.

This year’s Cinemalaya will run from August 2 to 11 at Ayala Malls by the Bay.

For more information, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya Facebook pages and other social media accounts on X, Instagram, and TikTok.

#Cinemalaya #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Toki: A Space for Collectors, by Collectors

As demand for community-based platforms increase, Toki has been able to establish itself as the first and leading social commerce platform for collectibles in the Philippines. A platform “for collectors, by collectors,” Toki was built to address the pain points of every collector, redefining the marketplace by offering safe and secure features to transact and interact with community members.

Since it launched in November 2023, Toki has onboarded 70,000 users, authenticated over 100,000 items (including more than 35,000 sneakers), and hosted more than 500 auctions.

“We are thrilled with the overwhelming response from the collector community,” said   Frederic Levy, Toki’s CEO and Co-founder. “Our goal has always been to create a trusted and engaging platform where collectors can connect, transact, and share their passion. The rapid growth and positive feedback we’ve received reaffirm our commitment to continuously improve and expand our offerings to meet the evolving needs of our users.”

Ensuring authenticity in the collectors’ buying journey has been Toki’s core mission. By implementing rigorous screening for sellers and a stringent verification process for every item sold, Toki guarantees the security of each transaction. This unwavering dedication aims to foster user confidence and uphold the digital marketplace’s credibility, allowing collectors to buy and sell with complete peace of mind.

“As collectors, it’s crucial for us to have confidence in the sellers we engage with on the platform,” emphasized Zoe Ocampo, Toki’s Co-founder and Chief Product Officer. “As we onboard new sellers, we prioritize expanding into new categories where our trusted sellers can immediately begin listing their unique offerings. This approach not only enriches our community’s experience but also ensures we maintain the highest standards of quality and authenticity.”

In a recent gathering with media, Toki’s founders – Frederic Levy, Zoe Ocampo, and Jules Jurado – who are former GCash executives and avid collectors themselves, also revealed its plans to eventually complement its digital proposition with retail locations, providing a full O2O (online-to-offline) experience for users.

Building on its strong foundation, the move towards an O2O integration aims to allow collectors to engage with the platform holistically, bridging the gap between online convenience and the thrill of in-person discovery.

“Beyond revolutionizing the collectors’ journey, Toki is carving a path where each item tells a story, and every transaction fosters a deeper connection within our vibrant community,” concluded Levy. “Our journey from being digital-first to blending physical presence marks the next chapter in redefining how collectors can enjoy their passion, both online and offline.”

For more information, visit www.tokiasia.com.

#Toki  #rubyspreciousmoments  #rubyasoyph

 

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Violin Prodigy Adrian Ong and His Love for Music

Falling in love with music wasn’t a watershed moment for 24-year-old violin prodigy Adrian Ong. His affection for the art gradually blossomed after watching a televised violin performance when he was four years old. Immediately enamored, Ong’s journey began simply: he requested violin lessons as a hobby.

“I tried swimming and taekwondo when we couldn’t find a teacher for me. By the time we found one through a family friend, I was already 9 years old,” Ong recalled. Thankfully, his parents, Jeanne, and Alan Ong, supported his childhood dream, despite leaning towards dentistry.

A steadfast scholar

Ong’s love for the art of music grew stronger after becoming a scholar at the Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA) in Makiling. Later, he graduated with honors from the Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan under another scholarship. Ong also received a merit-based scholarship from the Mannes School of Music, where he graduated with honors.

Under mentors Mellissa Geronimo Esguerra, Gina Medina-Perez, Paul Sonner, Lewis Kaplan, and Yibin Li, Ong furthered his studies. He also attended masterclasses with master musicians Ilya Kaler, Almita Vamos, Charles Castleman, Philippe Quint, and Thanos Adamopoulos. Besides polishing his musical instinct over the years, Ong learned to fall in love with every piece he played: “Whatever I’m playing is my favorite. Currently, I’m practicing a waltz composed by Eugène Ysaÿe, so it’s now one of my favorites.”

The intended emotions of the composer make the melodies memorable for Ong. He added, “I take note of the emotions, even the humor or the campiness of the song.”

Because of the emotions behind the compositions, music inevitably transforms people. Ong always adored how music is an invisible art form that brings people together. “It’s based on feelings and what you can express through sound,” he lamented. Through playing the violin, he witnesses stories as told by composers.

“It’s interesting how I can peek into the composer’s life. I also imagine colors as I’m playing because of the story behind the song,” Ong shared. Partaking in every composition’s story, Ong would see colors or moods, depending on the sound he played. Music is heard by the ear, but somehow every harmony opens his eyes.

Debut with PPO

Having his orchestral debut with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) at the age of 17, Ong plowed through performance after performance. In May 2023, he played at Carnegie Hall in New York, achieving what seemed to be every classical musician’s dream. “I had my own show. It was very fulfilling,” he expressed. He even played alongside Filipino-American world-renowned pianist Victor Asunción, making the performance all the more meaningful.

Grateful was an understatement as to how Ong felt. He also found the experience insightful, solidifying Carnegie Hall as the highlight of his career after being declared one of the scholars of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ International Scholarship Program. “It’s really very inspiring to play, especially with this generation as your audience,” expressed Ong.

Ong’s Carnegie Hall Recital Debut 2023.

After performing with fellow CCP scholars Aidan Baracol and Mark Rocas at the Young People’s Concert in 2023, Ong looked forward to the future of classical music in the Philippines. He found it easy to connect with the concert-goers, disproving the age-old misconception that classical music is too complex for young audiences.

Ong elaborated, “It’s easy to understand as long as you’re willing to listen. You just have to keep an open mind.”

Learning beyond the violin

As part of the CCP’s International Scholarship Program, which provides financial support for academic and artistic learners who have achieved excellence in their respective art forms, Ong decided to make the most out of the opportunity. He would watch concerts and attend masterclasses for other instruments.

For Ong, the scholarship opened more avenues for him to learn beyond the violin. “Each instrument requires a different view of music-making. Different instruments have different philosophies behind them,” he explained.

Slowly building a name for himself internationally, Ong wanted to prioritize his homeland first. He attended Helping Through Music: A Benefit Concert for Childhope PH and Museo Pambata in 2023, where an instrument petting zoo was held.

Ong recalled feeling indescribable joy upon seeing children express interest in the violin: “I want to share what I learned here in the Philippines, with its next generation,” he declared. Following through on this promise, he began coaching and collaborating with the Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra, alongside Herrick Ortiz.

But Ong never really expected to get into PHSA, where his love for music finally influenced his career path. By the time he received the news, he was already enrolled in another university. Still, he followed his heart and immediately transferred. Playing the violin may have started as a hobby for Ong, but with each performance sharpening his distinct sound, his journey as a violinist became clearer.

“I think this is what I’ll be doing for the rest of my life,” Ong said, smiling with fond certainty.

#AdrianOng #violinprodigy #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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CCP’S Tara, Laro Ta(y)o Interweaves Traditional Games and Dances

Believing in the importance of dance and arts in general in the lives of every Filipino, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) embarks on another milestone project, dubbed Tara, Laro Ta(y)o, that aims to preserve what is inherently Filipino and promote the diverse Philippine dance tapestry.

Six dance

Featuring six dance films, the project explores how the joyous spirit of traditional games can be woven and intertwined with the dynamism of Philippine indigenous dances. Championing the folk and indigenous arts, the CCP aims to promote traditional dances and games to young generations through these dance films.

Inspired by the traditional games of selected Philippine indigenous communities from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, the featured dances are: Mali, a Dumagat traditional dance; Koirdas di la Bordon of Cuyo, Palawan; Sipit-sipit from Eastern Samar; Kikembe from Cuartero, Capiz; Kasipa sa Manggis from Marawi, Lanao del Sur; and Buwa-buwan of Butuan City, Agusan del Norte.

Comparable to agawan base, the Mali is considered the pambansang laro of the Dumagats from San Jose del Monte, Bulacan. Usually played after the pagyuyuro (a long day’s work) at night under the moon along the river, the traditional game is played with two teams, with 10 players each; one of which will be the pambato (leader). Utilizing a ball, each group must protect with all their strength and might the base assigned to them.

In the dance film directed by Roberto P. Ramirez, Jr. and choreographed by Ramirez Jr. alongside John Rick Bugas, a player named Emman shows all his strength to win the game and eventually falls in love with his female opponent named Kulot. His love languages were observed and witnessed by Kulot’s younger sister Ekang. He may not win the game but wins the heart of his love.

Played after prayers for the dead or during wakes, Koirdas di la Bordon entails players secretly passing a ring while singing the Bordon. The “It” tries to guess who has the ring. The guessing game continues until the “it” succeeds in pointing at the person who holds it. The holder of the ring becomes the new “it.”

Performed by Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, the dance film shows the son of a bereaved family initiating the Koirdas di la Bordon to keep everyone awake and alleviate boredom throughout the night. Children eagerly join in, providing a much-needed distraction from the grief and sadness of the wake. This showed that even in times of mourning, there is still room for happiness and fun. Percival V.  Carel directs and choreographs.

A lively and playful cultural expression from the Philippines, specifically in Taft, Eastern Samar, Sipit-sipit is inspired by a traditional Filipino game where players aim to hit each other’s slippers with their own.

The Samleyaw Performing Arts Group performs the choreography of its artistic director Jerry E. Mores in the film directed by Mores himself and Mark Doclotero. In the film, dancers move energetically, incorporating movements that mimic the act of tucking or placing slippers in different parts of the body. The choreography often includes rhythmic footwork, dynamic arm gestures, and joyful expressions, capturing the essence of camaraderie and competition found in the game.

Kikembe, a traditional group game from Cuartero, Capiz, is often played by children who form a circle and tangle their hands and feet.  As they turn and form various formations, they would chant “Kekembe, nang kekembe/Ang barato nang karamiri/Ginsakyan ni Kapitan Kabyan/Byan, byan…. Byan.” Any player who loses focus and stops the routine will render a song or a dance as a penalty.

Directed by Jocelyn Mayo and Ramie Capuyan, the dance film features the performance of Agdahanay Folkloric Group as choreographed by Rose Hallegado and Cute Candelario. In the film, Kikembe ignites the friendship between classmates who bicker and fight.

In Kasipa sa Manggis, sipa players try to outdo one another by kicking the ball-like contraption made of rattan (sipa) and hitting the manggis that are hung on a bamboo above them. The player that can hit a manggis and make it drop to the ground gets a price.

The traditional game is mentioned in Darangen, the Maranaw epic. In the tale, mythical hero Raja Bantugan competed in kasipa sa manggis, along with other noble warriors and datus, to win the hand of a beautiful princess.

Benhur Abulencia directs the dancers of Sining Kambayoka Ensemble (SKE) who follow the choreography of Abulencia and Jear P. Lopez in the film, narrating the story of a Meranaw boy who journeys through the Kasipa games and learns the true value of family.

The Agusan Manobo and Lapakonon Manobo children often play the Buwa-buwan, a traditional outdoor game where the runners will try to outrun the “taya.” The taya will try to chase and block the runners. Hugis Dance Project of Butuan City performs the choreography of Dariel Endencia and Railey Clark Baring in the film directed by Carlito Amalla and Gerard Hechanova.

CCP’s instructional videos

Maximizing the potential of modern technology, the CCP also created instructional videos and books to document unpublished dances from the different regions of the country, with materials on costumes, music, instruments, and choreographies performed by partner dance groups from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

“The long-term plan is to create a comprehensive archive of Philippine dances, ensuring that future generations will deeply understand and appreciate our culture and heritage. We aim to distribute these manuals and instructional materials to educational institutions and libraries in the Philippines,” said CCP President Kaye C. Tinga.

In partnership with the Philippine Folk Dance Society and the City Government of San Jose Del Monte, the CCP will screen the Tara, Laro Ta(y)o films on June 25, at the Convention Center, San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan. Coinciding with the launch is the 42nd National Folk Dance Workshop, slated on June 24-28.

#CCP #Filipinodancetapestry #TaraLaroTayo #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod’s Art Cove Mounts an Inspiring Art Exhibit on Mental Health

The importance of mental health regardless of age cannot be undermined. With summer kicking-in, students who are on vacation from school have less to do. As such, they should have productive activities to keep them busy and constantly hone their minds to prevent them from getting bored. Licensed psychologist Heather Lyons, Ph.D. points out that “prolonged stretches of boredom can lead to higher stress levels. Chronic boredom can increase your risk factors for mental health issues, leading to negative thinking patterns, impulsivity, and self-destructive behaviors.”

The Tales of the Psyche: Navigating Our Mental Odyssey is the newest exhibit at the Art Cove, Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod’s built-in art space. This is the eighth installation of the gallery, featuring the works of Ms. Sheila Marie Basio, marking her third solo exhibition. Ms. Basio hails from the city of Escalante, Negros Occidental. She is a retired teacher, meditator, yogini, and an active mindfulness advocate. Her works represent her battles with mental illness, self-empowerment, and choosing life over defeat. “Art has always been a medium for expression, and through these works, I have attempted to capture the complexities, struggles, and triumphs associated with mental health. Each piece tells a story—sometimes of despair, sometimes of hope, but always of resilience,” said Ms. Basio.

Her artworks address mental health as a topic that touches everyone, whether directly or indirectly, and she hopes this exhibition sparks conversations, evokes empathy, and offers solace to those who might be struggling in silence.

“Here at Art Cove, we consider ourselves privileged to host such a profound and timely exhibit. In an age where the importance of mental health cannot be overstated, through Ms. Sheila’s art, we are encouraged to appreciate beauty and embrace the full range of our shared human experience,” said Archie Javellana, Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod’s Rooms Division Manager.

From Left to Right: Tales of the Psyche exhibit ribbon cutting led and facilitated by Art Association of Bacolod–Negros Treasurer Patty Jane Ku Ong; Tales of the Psyche Artist Sheila Marie Basio; City Councilor of Victorias Hon. Joji Larraga; and Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod Rooms Division Manager Archie Javellana.

The ribbon-cutting last June 5 was led by the Tales of the Psyche artist, Ms. Sheila Marie Basio, with honorable guests Art Association of Bacolod–Negros Treasurer Patty Jane Ku Ong, City Councilor of Victorias Hon. Joji Larraga, and was assisted by Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod’s Rooms Division Manager, Mr. Archie Javellana. The exhibit was also graced by the presence of Mr. Charlie Co, co-owner of Orange Project and a Filipino contemporary visual artist known for works with a strong socio-realist theme.

Tales of the Psyche will run until September 7, 2024. For inquiries and artwork purchases, guests may visit the hotel’s front desk or call +63 34 706 888.

#ParkInnbyRadissonBacolod #TalesofthePsyche #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Businesswoman-Philanthropist Kaye Tinga is the New CCP President

The Cultural Center of the Philippines welcomes its new president, businesswoman and philanthropist Kaye Tinga.

She will assume the duties of the presidency on June 1, 2024, allowing her time to fully acclimate in her new role. Tinga will take responsibility for the operations of the CCP, working closely with the management.

New CCP President Kaye Tinga.

Her presidency was approved by the CCP Board of Trustees, following the election during the board meeting on May 15, 2024. She became part of the Board after her appointment from Malacañang Palace in April 2024.

She replaced early childhood educator Michelle Nikki Junia, who acted as president ad interim from September 2023 to March 2024.

Championing Filipino design talents, Tinga is the co-founder and co-chairperson of the Red Charity Gala, a prestigious annual event that aims to celebrate local fashion through the works of renowned Filipino designers including Dennis Lustico, Furne One, Michael Cinco, Cary Santiago, Ezra Santos, Jojie Lloren, Lesley Mobo, Chito Vijandre, Joey Samson, Rajo Laurel, and Ivarluski Aseron. The gala also raises substantial funds for charitable causes, including for the Philippine Red Cross.

A business economics graduate from the University of the Philippines-Diliman, with MBA from Fordham University, she is the co-founder and managing director of W/17, a home furnishing and accessories brand that collaborated with with craftsmen from various regions across the Philippines, including from Cebu, Cavite, Pampanga, and Dumaguete. Through her leadership, her brand has been promoting local artisans, cultural skills preservation, and economic development.

Nurturing the next generation of creative talents, Tinga serves as a board member of MINT College, a business and creative arts college and senior high school that provides an innovative learning experience and empowers young people through its pioneering programs such as music business management, multimedia arts, and film and video.

Married to former Taguig Mayor and Congressman Freddie Tinga, and mother to four children, Tinga balances her professional and philanthropic activities with her family life, and interests in design and travel.

The CCP Board of Trustees is headed by Dr. Jaime C. Laya, with Margie Moran Floirendo and Carissa Oledan Coscolluela as Vice Chairs.

Completing the Board are real estate magnate Isidro A. Consunji, award-winning conductor Jonathan Velasco, PR maven Junie del Mundo, master light designer Felix “Monino” Duque, Atty. Gizela M. Gonzalez, and entrepreneur Marivic del Pilar.

#KayeTinga #CCPNewPresident #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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‘Mebuyan’s Colony’ in CCP: Function Beyond the Fantastical

Whether physical, social, or personal, art always serves a purpose and goes beyond aesthetics and well into the needs of the artist and the community. Such is the case for multidisciplinary artist Leeroy New’s Mebuyan’s Colony, the featured Earth Day art installation of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). The unveiling will take place on April 25 at 6 p.m. at the CCP Front Lawn.

Raising environmental awareness and championing green initiatives, Mebuyan’s Colony is a large-scale immersive environment that combines New’s fascination with science fiction and Philippine mythology, reflected in the giant spheres on bamboo stilts.

Based on Bagobo mythology, Mebuyan is the goddess residing in the underworld whose body is engulfed with seemingly infinite breasts. Pods akin to wombs allude to Mebuyan’s dual role as the goddess of death and fertility, sustaining the spirits of children who have passed and transforming and nourishing them into adults capable of continuing the journey through the afterlife.

New’s use of natural materials, found objects, and assorted discards transformed into representations of a specific speculative future intersects Filipino contemporary life, pre-colonial mythology, and environmentalism.

“Our references to local stories and pre-colonial mythology can determine our approach to creative production. I referenced Mebuyan and other pre-colonial stories because most of us only get to hear the same stories, paulit-ulit,” he explains. “We don’t hear about Mebuyan, the goddess of death and fertility, who nurtures the spirits of dead babies. So there are a lot of principles and elements that we miss out on.”

Leeroy New

For the fifth iteration of the Mebuyan series, New incorporated this year’s Earth Day celebration theme, “Planet vs. Plastics,” as he utilized additional materials to protect plants against the hotter weather.

“I’m really drawn to pieces that explore practicality and functionality. When we built Mebuyan’s Colony, I wondered how we could build something more. How can we move away from practical structures, like cube forms, versus more creative and fantastical forms, like these clusters of spheres?” shared New.

The Mebuyan installation at the CCP will utilize blue gallons instead of the usual clear plastic bottles. New explores a more semi-architectural and sculpture-like way of grouping that can mitigate the heat to ensure that the plants will thrive.

“It’s all experimental, but the goal is for the plants to survive inside and under the structure,” said New.

Born in General Santos City, New made up for the lack of art galleries and museums in the area with horror and sci-fi films, magic shows, card games, and illustrated books as his early art references. The artist-designer draws motivation from the continuous element of play and exploration in artmaking.

“The concept of world-building became an important principle and determining idea in how I implemented my art practice. I had dreams of participating in building worlds physically and, in a practical way, through architecture. Also, building worlds, imagined or representational, through film,” shared New.

With Mebuyan’s Colony, New shared how the installation went against the rock and metallic forms that try to go into outer space to colonize other planets. Instead, it represented more regenerative and inward-looking principles, showing how human beings redefine their relationship with Mother Earth.

On his way of manifesting his vision in his art, New elaborated:  “It’s not just the idea of the themes of sci-fi in my work, but slowly moving towards the functional side. It’s not enough to represent something in art, so it’s time to explore how to make it practical and useful.”

To get the latest updates on Mebuyan’s Colony, follow the official CCP and CCP Visual Arts and Museum Division (CCP VAMD) social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

#MebuyansColony #CCP #LeeroyNew #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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BaRaptasan 2024: Bringing Different Voices in One Stage

For a mambabalagtas, verbal joust and poetry are so much more than a way to express complex emotions and stories. While it was born as a form of entertainment during the bleak era of American colonialism, Balagtasan – a form of traditional verbal jousting – became a venue to discuss socio-political issues that besieged contemporary society.

Through facts, rhymes, and clever lines, the mambabalagtas would exchange discussions on the pros and cons of a topic relevant to the community. When it first happened on April 6, 1924, Balagtasan became the rage.

Town folks would gather at the plaza and listen to mambalalagtas defend their stand on certain social issues. While it seemed like a verbal display of one’s mastery of the Filipino language, it became a powerful tool to engage the public and create informed conversations on social realities.

But through the years, with the advent of new entertainment platforms, verbal jousts become few and far between in recent times.

With this in mind, the Cultural Center of the Philippines embarks on a new project to make Balagtasan and other types of verbal jousts remain in the consciousness of the Filipino people, especially the young generations.

To commemorate the centennial of Balagtasan, CCP, through its Kanto Kultura program, presents BaRaptasan, a Balagtasan competition with a twist. The competition gives Balagtasan a contemporary feel with the incorporation of rap.

With topics discussing the clash between modernity and tradition, the CCP’s Kanto Kultura BaRaptasan Grand Finals is open to the public. Ten finalists will battle it out in the finale, slated on April 6, 2 PM, at the Rizal Park Open-Air Auditorium.

The group finalists are: Ang Mga Supling ni Angela, Bagong Koronadal Advocates (City of Koronadal), Barapbida Normalista, DMD, El Setecientos, Harayasista Group, Lakbay Iral, Rapper sa Pinas, Tanglaw, and Waraptasan.

Ang Mga Supling ni Angela of Tabaco City, Albay

Paying homage to the first Filipina poet Angela Manalang Gloria, and one of Tabaco City’s proud daughters, Ang Mga Supling ni Angela hopes to present Tabaco City with a bang on the national stage. The group is composed of Kirschen Xyvrl Balajadia, Carlo Campit, and Franco Balingbing.

Bagong Koronadal Advocates (City of  Koronadal) of South Cotabato

Working students and full-time storytellers Angel Faith Leal, Jhon Van Lapu, and Philip Jay Leaño make up the Bagong Koronadal Advocates group. Aside from being familiar with verbal joust competitions, the members share the same love for theater. “Pare-pareho naming mahal ang entablado,” declared the group.

Barapbida Normalista of Tacloban, Leyte

Members Ray Padiwan, Wally Concepcion, and Dave Padel are third-year students taking up Education (majoring in Filipino) at Leyte Normal University. Handpicked by their professor for the competition, the three want to reintroduce their university as an avenue for creatives, not just academics.

 DMD of Makati City

The fourth group, DMD, consists of rappers John Dave P. Rosimo, Marielle Lou C. Bernardo, and Reynaldo S. Bernardo from Makati City. Their group name stood for their initials.

El Setecientos of Santa Rosa, Laguan  

El Setecientos, a group from Santa Rosa, Laguna, is composed of Simon, Mhagz, and Arkyak. Besides continuously honing their craft as seasoned rappers, they now want to present their craft to the national stage. Always eager to experience something new, El Setecientos of Laguna signed up for BaRaptasan to contribute to the artistic landscape of the Philippines.

Harayasista Group of  Labo, Camarines Norte

The Harayasista Group may have performers Louie L. Francia, John Earnest M. Evidor, and Amynel L. Garino, but it also has Angel Yasis as its coach. Hailing from Camarines Norte, Yasis looked for performers to create his own group after assisting another competitor.

Lakbay Iral of Dasmarinas City, Cavite 

Lakbay Iral members Aaron Vincent G. Jimenez, Louie Ross P. Reyes, and Gabriel Angelo Pedrosa formed the group because of the BaRaptasan competition. True to its translation, Lakbay Iral aims to live life by creating and immersing in the arts.

Rapper sa Pinas of Bocaue, Bulacan

Ernesto Canoy Jr., Oliver Monidero, and Fernando Melencio Jr. met through a Facebook group for rappers. Melencio reached out to the other two and quickly became friends. Eventually, they formed Rapper sa Pinas and applied for the competition. They want to bring to the competition the natural nature of their performance, emphasizing their message and working hard to make sure it will be heard.

Tagapagtaguyod ng Literatura at Wika (TANGLAW) of Ilocos Sur

The Tagapagtaguyod ng Literatura at Wika or TANGLAW is actually an organization from the Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College, under the Secondary Education Program. Edlyn Baniqued, Deprisse Guco, and Schulamight Manzano chose to honor their school as they represented their institution on the BaRaptasan stage. They are all third-year Filipino Majors who were invited by their professor to join this competition.

Waraptasan of Tacloban City, Leyte  

Waraptasan is a wordplay spun by its members to show that they are from Tacloban City. With Waray as their language, members Ma. Regina Babon, James Leala, and Kenneth Cinco believe that “when doing art, you have to bring your own identity.” And that is exactly what they plan to do in BaRaptasan.

#BaRaptasan #CCP #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph