This antique jewelry showcase is merely the first of many exciting activities planned for the year. As July 2025 approaches, Cuartel de Santo Domingo will proudly celebrate its 20th anniversary as a National Historical Landmark, alongside Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo Inc.’s milestone of 25 years of enriching the community through culture and heritage.
In a dazzling homage to National Arts Month, the Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo proudly hosted an extraordinary exhibition of antique jewelry at the historic Cuartel de Santo Domingo, dubbed the “Intramuros of the South,” on February 13.
As visitors entered, they were transported into an enchanting world of elegance and artistry, where each piece of jewelry sparkled with the whispers of history. The collection showcased a breathtaking array of craftsmanship, rich culture, and deep-rooted heritage. Each stunning item glowed with the unforgettable tales of artisans lost to time, revealing the incredible skill and passion that breathed life into these exquisite creations.
This one-day event was not just an exhibition; it was a vibrant celebration of artistic expression and the timeless legacy embodied in these extraordinary treasures. These magnificent artifacts have been lovingly preserved through generations, nestled in the heart of this iconic landmark, steeped in history.
Ms. Gemalin Batino (left, standing) with her dedicated team members at Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo.
Behind this captivating jewelry exhibition was the dedicated team at Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo, led by the inspiring Ms. Gemalin Batino. Their collective passion shone brightly, as each member played a pivotal role in unveiling this marvelous collection to the public.
Antique jewelry exhibition at Cuartel de Santo Domingo in Santa Rosa, Laguna.
This antique jewelry showcase is merely the first of many exciting activities planned for the year. As July 2025 approaches, Cuartel de Santo Domingo will proudly celebrate its 20th anniversary as a National Historical Landmark, alongside Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo Inc.’s milestone of 25 years of enriching the community through culture and heritage.
The Philippines’ largest multi-arts event, the CCP Pasinaya Open House Festival, returns bigger and better than ever, featuring an exciting new component and an expanded audience reach. The festival will take place on February 1 and 2, 2025 at various venues nationwide under the theme “CCP Pasinaya 2025 Open House Festival: Para sa Lahat!,” in its 19th edition.
This year, CCP Pasinaya will serve as the vibrant launch event for the National Arts Month 2025 celebration, setting the stage for a month-long tribute to the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage and artistic excellence.
In partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), this year’s National Arts Month aims to engage audiences from all walks of life, inviting them to explore, support, and celebrate the dynamic and flourishing arts scene across the country.
With the country’s leading cultural institutions collaborating, CCP Pasinaya will not only showcase Filipino artists but also foster a deeper appreciation for how the arts shape the nation’s identity and cultural landscape, unite communities, inspire creativity, and preserve its rich traditions.
The festival also extends its reach to new regional partner sites, including Clark (Pampanga) collaborating with Clark Development Corporation, Batangas Province (Batangas), Himamaylan (Negros Occidental), and Sorsogon City (Bicol). It also makes a highly anticipated return to Iloilo City headed by the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) and Tagum City (Davao del Norte) with the Musikahan sa Tagum Foundation, Inc. This is in partnership with the networks of the CCP Kaisa sa Sining.
In Metro Manila, the CCP Pasinaya will unfold across multiple venues such as Circuit Makati, The Metropolitan Theater, Intramuros, Aliw Theater and various partner museums and galleries, offering a vibrant celebration of Filipino arts and culture.
“The CCP Pasinaya has always been a celebration of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the Philippines. As we mark its 19th edition, we are excited to expand the festival’s reach and bring more inclusive, accessible, and engaging experiences to audiences across the country. With new regional partners and innovative components like the Palaro, Pasinaya 2025 promises to be a grander, more vibrant showcase of Filipino artistry for all to enjoy,” said CCP President Kaye C. Tinga.
Favorite components – Palihan, Palabas, Paseo Museo, Palitan, Pagtitipon, and Pamilihan – bring together a diverse mix of art groups and individual artists from across the Philippines. They offer over 200 performances, workshops, and activities showcasing the best of music, theater, dance, visual arts, films, and literature.
In Palihan, the public can participate in workshops of various art disciplines conducted by leading artists, resource persons, and experts. Palabas is all about performances featuring the CCP resident companies such as the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, the Bayanihan National Dance Company, the Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, and the Madrigal Singers, along with professional, amateur, and community-based artists and arts organizations.
Meanwhile, Palitan is an arts market where pre-registered participants can pitch their productions and other contents to prospective producers from here and abroad; while CCP Kaisa sa Sining regional network members converge in Pagtitipon. Paseo Museo gives audiences a hop-on, hop-off tour of the partner museums and galleries in Manila and Pasay cities.
A new highlight of this year’s Pasinaya is Palaro, which features the final output of the CCP Game and Comics Development Grant awardees that showcase Philippine mythology, simulation with iconic Filipino heroes, exploration of Philippine landmarks, puzzles, and story-driven adventure.
“The addition of Palaro to this year’s CCP Pasinaya is a groundbreaking step in celebrating the intersection of art, technology, and creativity,” said CCP Vice President and Artistic Director Dennis N. Marasigan.
With its See-All-You-Can, Workshop-All-You-Can, Network-all-You-Can, Pay-What-You-Can scheme, the CCP Pasinaya anticipates an audience of over 50,000.
For more details on Pasinaya and other CCP events, check out the CCP website at www.culturalcenter.gov.ph and its official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra—the country’s leading music ensemble—kickstarts the new year with the fourth installment of its 40th concert season, dubbed “Europa,” on January 17, 7:30 pm, at CCP at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati City.
PPO’s Concert IV: ‘Europa’ features world-class violinist Aylen Pritchin. He performs the elegant and diverse sounds of European classical music, playing works by master composers Zoltan Kodály, Peter Tchaikovsky, and Antonin Dvořák. Among the world’s most sought-after violinists, Pritchin is known for his versatility in contemporary music performances of both period and modern instruments.
Under the baton of PPO music director and principal conductor Maestro Grzegorz Nowak, the concert will open with Kodály’s Dances of Galánta, bringing audiences on a melodic journey to Hungary. A homage to the composer’s hometown, the 1993 folk-inspired masterpiece Dances of Galánta allowed Kodály to display his extensive skills as an ethnographer and musical pedagogue through its spiritual tunes.
Pritchin will also perform Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto No. 1. This masterpiece successfully held Tchaikovsky’s burning love for Russia through its majestic Canzonetta. When Tchaikovsky finished composing the piece, it was to be performed first by Leopold Auer and Karl Davydov in a concert at the Russian Musical Society in St. Petersburg in 1879. But the performance didn’t push through after the musicians declared it too difficult to play. For years after its composition, the concerto gained a reputation as unplayable (following failed attempts by Iosif Kotek and Emile Sauret) until violinist Leopold Damrosch successfully performed it in a New York concert in 1879.
The PPO’s Concert IV: Europa concludes with Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8, an inspiring composition celebrating the beauty of nature. The surroundings of Dvořák’s country house in Vyoská inspired his masterpiece in 1889. In merely 18 days, he completed the symphony’s sketch and finished its scoring in Prague. With its striking and colorful thematic ideas with varying Czech flavors, Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8 premiered in 1890 as part of his induction into the Czech Academy of Science, Literature, and the Arts.
The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.
Through PPO’s 39th Concert Season, dubbed “Forte,” the CCP continues to honor its commitment to showcasing and promoting world-class Filipino artistry while providing unique cultural experiences to its audiences. The concert season runs until April 2025.
Tickets for PPO concerts are priced at Php 3,000, Php 2,500, Php 2,000, and Php 1,500, available at TicketWorld. Be a PPO subscriber and enjoy up to 25 percent discount. To purchase a PPO’s 40th concert season subscription and other inquiries, email salesandpromotions@culturalcenter.gov.ph or call the CCP Box Office at +63931-033-0880.
For more updates on PPO’s future performances, follow the CCP and PPO’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts. You may also visit the CCP website at www.culturalcenter.gov.ph for news on future concerts, masterclasses, workshops, and other events.
Gallery C presents an immersive group exhibit that challenges perceptions and celebrates the intersection of art, architecture, and innovation.
Conrad Manila welcomes the new year with the unveiling of its latest art exhibit, “Machine of Thoughts”, as part of the 33rd edition of the hotel’s acclaimed Of Art and Wine series. Featuring 53 dynamic works by five prominent artist-architects from The Authenticity Zero Collective (TAZC): Cocoi Base, Gab Brioso, Almi Domingo, Walther Ocampo, and Robin Ravago, the exhibit invites viewers into a thought-provoking exploration of form, space, and human interaction.
“Conrad Manila is committed to championing local artists and fostering creative diversity through our Of Art and Wine series of exhibits at Gallery C. In the new year, we are particularly excited to introduce a dynamic line-up of six exhibits, starting with “Machine of Thoughts’, which will offer our guests a fresh perspective through immersive and unconventional art, and ignite conversations about the evolving relationship between humanity and the material world,” says Fabio Berto, general manager of Conrad Manila.
Displayed at Gallery C from January 7 to March 8, “Machine of Thoughts” breaks conventional artistic boundaries through non-representational expressions. Each artwork stands as an autonomous creation while contributing to a larger evolving dialogue—a metaphorical “machine” generating new concepts and ideas. The exhibit challenges viewers to reassess preconceived frameworks, biases, and attachments to historical or cultural narratives.
The official opening was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony graced by distinguished guests, including Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, Guest of Honor and art curator Nestor Jardin, and the featured artists of TAZC.
Front [L-R]: Nestor Jardin (Art Curator/ Guest of Honor), Peggy Angeles (SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, Executive Vice President), Elizabeth Sy (SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, President), Fabio Berto (Conrad Manila’s General Manager) Back [L-R]: Robin Ravago (featured artist), Walther Ocampo (featured artist), Cocoi Base (featured artist).Art enthusiasts and guests are invited to experience “Machine of Thoughts” at Conrad Manila’s Gallery C, where all artworks are available for purchase. To learn more about Conrad Manila’s art collection, along with the exclusive privileges and personalized experiences for a luxury stay, visit www.conradmanila.com or call +632 8833 9999.
About The Artists
Cocoi Base
Cocoi Base is an architect and visual artist based in Bicol. His works are visual concepts of structures, machinery, spaces, events, and projections of how things can be, should have been or as it is, condensing each subject to its barest and most basic form until only the essential geometries, composition and color emerge.
Gab Brioso
Gab Brioso is a designer, artist and an architect who thinks about design holistically. He holds an architecture degree from the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde and a master’s degree in fine arts from the Philippine Women’s University. He is currently teaching in De La Salle-College of St. Benilde, Asia Pacific College, and in Ateneo de Manila University.
Almi Domingo
Almi Domingo is an architect and visual artist. He is a graduate of Technological Institute of the Philippines-Manila and a product of the MetaArch Program 2016 of The Brown Bauhau Alternative School of Architecture + Design. His exploration uses etching technique of acrylic sheets resulting to a dynamic interplay of bold geometric elements.
Walther Ocampo
Walther Ocampo is an architect, visual artist, and a pedagogue. For him architecture and art should act together in an alchemic platform so as to produce a more poetic and authentic environment. In both architecture and art, he explores new aesthetic and theoretical directions through speculations, oppositions, diagramming, and re-constructions. This system manifests in his drawings, paintings, sculptures, and installations. He is currently an assistant professor in the architecture program of the De La salle-College of St. Benilde.
Robin Ravago
Robin Ravago is an architect and artist based in Manila. His works revolve around the formal qualities of objects and its potential relationships – explored through drawings, photographs, installations, and objects. He holds a degree in architecture from the De La Salle College of St. Benilde. He is currently teaching architectural theory and design in the architecture programs of Asia Pacific College and De La Salle College of St. Benilde.
Violinist Diomedes Saraza Jr. took music lovers on a journey of imagination with the third installment of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO)’s 40th concert season, held last December 6, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater.
With his 1972 French violin by Eugene Guinot and Rene Morel (given by Standard Insurance), Saraza Jr. captivated audience with his exceptional skill and artistry on the violin as he effortlessly met the virtuosic demands of Finnish composer Jean Sibelius’ Violin Concerto op.47, D minor.
One of the most challenging in the repertoire in the classic music scene, Sibelius concerto premiered in 1904, with violin teacher Victor Novàček as soloist. With lukewarm reception during its premiere, Sibelius rewrote the concerto in 1905, with Berlin concertmaster Karl Halir playing the revised piece.
Music history has revealed that the concerto was initially created for violinist Willy Burmester, who was then the concertmaster in Helsingfors. After Sibelius passed him over during its two premieres, Burmester never touched the work for the rest of his life.
For the PPO Concert III, Saraza performed with the PPO and took the audiences on a profound journey through the emotional spectrum of life, under the baton of acclaimed music director and principal conductor Maestro Grzegorz Nowak.
Currently the PPO’s guest concertmaster and artist-in-residence, Saraza received both his undergraduate and master’s degrees in music from The Juilliard School as a full tuition scholar. He studied under the tutelage of Juilliard’s Dean Emeritus-violinist Stephen Clapp, American violinist-pedagogue Lewis Kaplan, and Taiwanese-American violinist Joseph Lin (the first violinist of the Juilliard String Quartet from 2011 to 2018).
He also finished his master’s in musical arts from Yale University, under Prof. Hyo Kang. During his time in Yale, Saraza was awarded the Brodus Erle Prize 2016 for best violinist of the school year and the Alumni Association Prize 2017 for important community initiatives that he led.
Since winning the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) in the Philippines in 2002 at age 12, Saraza has been performing and giving solo recitals both in the Philippines and abroad. He has won international competitions, including New York’s Friday-Woodmere Young Artist Competition and Associated Music Teacher’s League Competition.
He has performed solo internationally with the New York Symphonic Arts Ensemble, the Sichuan Philharmonic Orchestra, among others, as well as locally with the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) and the PPO. He has collaborated as soloist with prominent conductors, namely Darrell Ang, Olivier Ochanine, David Bernard, Gerard Salonga, Yoshikazu Fukumura, Joshua Kangmin Tan, and Haoran Li.
Saraza served as concertmaster of MSO and Yale Philharmonia, as well as an associate and assistant concertmaster of The Juilliard Orchestra and Juilliard Lab Orchestra. He was also an educator at St. Scholastica’s College Manila and the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra.
Saraza has finished his USA recital tour and album recording with Music Foundation founder and Steinway artist Victor Asuncion.
Completing the program for the Concert III: Fantasy, the PPO will perform Gioachino Rossini’s William Tell Overture and Peter Ilich Tchaikovsky’s Symphony no. 5, op. 64, E minor.
Premiered in Paris on August 3, 1829, the William Tell Overture is part of Gioachino Rossini’s opera Guillaume Tell, which was adapted from Friedrich Schiller’s 1804 drama inspired by the legendary 14th-century Swiss patriot William Tell. In pop culture, this piece is best known for its thrilling final three minutes, which became iconic as the theme music for The Lone Ranger, the masked avenger of the Wild West.
Meanwhile, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Op. 64, is often interpreted as a reflection of the composer’s personal struggles and doubts. First performed in 1888, with Tchaikovsky conducting, the symphony is known for its sweeping melodies, dramatic contrasts, and rich orchestration. Over the years, this masterpiece has remained a favorite in concert halls.
Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamadis the latest addition to Alice Reyes Dance Philippines’ expansive repertoire of Filipino works, this time designed specifically for Children’s Dance Theater.
This new offering marks a significant milestone for one of ARDP’s talented choreographers, Erl Sorilla, who has crafted both the book and his first full-length choreography.
The production is brought to life with a captivating musical score by award-winning singer-songwriter Toto Sorioso, and magical sets and costumes designed by the renowned Filipino Director and Broadway Designer, Loy Arcenas.
Under the mentorship of National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes, and ARDP Artistic Director, Ronelson Yadao, this production promises to be a magical experience for young audiences.
The story follows the adventures of Juan Tamad, the misunderstood boy in town, and his loyal monkey companion, Matsing. Aided by Juan’s unique ability to converse with animals and his innate love for nature, they set out to find the village’s most prized treasure, the fruit of all their hard-work and labor stolen by the greedy ‘Buwaya,’ the ‘Gintong Niyog.’ A challenge he must complete to win the hand of Maria Masipag.
Along his journey, Juan encounters a variety of animals, including those from the stories of ‘Pagong at Kuneho,’ ‘Ang Gamu-gamu at ang Lampara,’ and ‘Buwaya at ang Paboreal.’ Through these encounters, Juan learns valuable moral lessons that guide him on his path. With the help of the animals, Juan grows in character, and ultimately finds the ‘Gintong Niyog.’ Inspired by the classic Filipino children’s stories of ‘Juan Tamad,’ this production brings a new twist to the beloved tales.
The new work will feature ARDP company dancers Renzen Arboleda as the titular Juan Tamad, with Karla Santos as Maria Masipag. Dan Dayo will take on the role of Juan’s trusted sidekick, Matsing, with John Ababon as Pagong, Monica Gana as Kuneho, Earl John Arisola as Buwaya, Krislynne Buri as Paboreal, and Francia Alejandro as Lampara,. Also featured are ARDP trainees Gianna Hervas and Crizza Urmeneta as the Gamu–gamu.
This production is specifically created for students, as it aligns with Grade 1-10 and High School subjects, including Filipino, Arts, Music, Humanities, Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao, Personal Development, Araling Panlipunan, Physical Education. Through dance and storytelling, Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamad offers an enriching, multidisciplinary educational experience.
Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamad premieres on November 10, 2024, 10:00 AM, and 4:00 PM at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater as part of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Children’s Biennale. Admission is on a Pay-What-You-Can basis. Please stay tuned on Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Social Media Pages for registration links.
Held earlier this month from October 9 to 13, the country’s national art fair showcased a convergence of Philippine art in its many shades. ManilART ’24, with its theme “Prisms and Mosaics,” reflected the diversity of Philippine contemporary art, uniting various expressions into a vibrant, cohesive whole. This annual event, now on its 16th year, banners the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)’s overall celebration for Museums and Galleries Month, themed “Ani ng Sining, Bayang Malikhain” (Art’s Harvest, A Creative Nation).
Visions in Glass: The Legacy of Ramon Orlina
Philippine glassmaster Ramon Orlina’s long-awaited coffee table book, Visions in Glass, authored by art critic Cid Reyes and designed by Dopy Doplon, showcases his remarkable journey as an artist. Weighing 6 kilograms and comprising 57 chapters, this book is hefty not just in its contents. It spans Orlina’s artistic journey from the 1960s to the present, highlighting his life’s work of transforming discarded glass cullets into stunning art pieces. The overall project was brought to life and spearheaded by his wife, Lay Ann Orlina.
Pia Wurtzbach-Jauncey with Cid Reyes and Ramon Orlina.
The book launch attracted notable personalities, including National Artist Virgilio Almario, Secretary Sonny Angara, Senator Allan Cayetano and Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano, Dr. Jimmy Laya, celebrity art patron Ms. Assunta De Rossi Ledesma, Metrobank Foundation’s Chito and Anna Sobrepeña, and Ms. Daphne Osena Paez, among many others. Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach-Jauncey was honored as the book’s Ambassador at the launch. In attendance at both the book launch and the vernissage night were top diplomats including Ambassador Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino of Malaysia, Ambassador Tull Traisorat of Thailand, Ambassador Dr. Lai Thai Binh of Vietnam, Ambassador Dr. Titanilla Toth of Hungary, Mr. Martin Karuse from the German Embassy and Mr. Mouablong Xayvue from the Embassy of Laos. Apart from this milestone book launch, Orlina has inspired his children, Michael and Anna, to pursue careers as glass artists, and his family has also established Museo Orlina as a cultural landmark in Batangas to honor his artistry.
Illuminating the Mosaic: Some Highlights of ManilART ’24
This year’s fair featured an impressive array of works from 32 participating galleries. Plugged into Fernalia: Art in the Age of AI, curated by Gromyko Semper, explored the intersection of art and technology and its implications for contemporary creativity. The exhibit showcased a diverse range of artistic forms, including painting, sculpture, digital art, photography, and mixed media, featuring works from various artists such as Noel Sadicon, Joshua Palisoc, Pen Medina, Isobel Francisco, Jonathan Benitez, and Austrian fantastic realist artist Peter Gric. The exhibition was organized into four thematic sections: “Origins and Inspirations,” reflecting on AI’s initial promise to the art world; “Ethics and Appropriation,” addressing artists’ concerns about the use of their work by AI companies; “Human vs. Machine,” comparing AI-generated art with human creations; and “Future Visions,” envisioning the future of creativity in an AI-driven landscape.
Several artists chose to focus on nostalgia as their muse across various exhibitions. Hues of Nostalgia featured glass artist Anna Orlina and painters Bea Policarpio and Abby Añover, each interpreting a chosen decade. The Blast from the Past series by Otep Bañez presented mixed media installations infused with childhood memories and nostalgic technologies like the Walkman. Ang mga Anik-Anik ng Diwang Di-Malirip, curated by Gromyko Semper and Cheryl Hironaka, explored the Filipino practice of collecting small, sentimental objects known as “anik-anik,” representing personal history and memory. These exhibitions reflected on the intricacies of human existence and the connections formed through treasured memories.
This year’s iteration of the fair also featured collaborations between renowned sculptors. Steampunk Unplugged, by Danny Rayos del Sol and Ram Mallari, combined intricately carved ostrich eggshells and carabao skulls with brass robotic figures, pushing the limits of imagination. Jik Villanueva and Ramon Orlina showcased larger-than-life sculptures of brass ants carrying glass “grains,” highlighting that persistence yields good fortune.
Ed Coronel’s massive works graced the center-stage area of ManilART. The hyperrealist painter’s pieces, including the award-winning portrait of the Rayos del Sol family, Rays of the Sun, and his mural triptych The Wave, inspired by his ponderings on the West Philippine Sea, explore themes of cultural heritage and resilience through a blend of realism and expression.
Expanding the Experience: Conversations and Collaborations at ManilART
ManilART continued to offer its regular repertoire of talks, satellite shows, and refreshments. The fair hosted discussions that delved into the intersections of art, artists’ rights, and new technologies. This series of talks began on October 10 with Ian Felix Alquiros discussing Art for Stigma Reduction, followed by Hon. Christopher de Venecia’s talk on the Creative Industries Act and its significance for the visual arts and galleries on October 11. On October 12, Abe Orobia illuminated fairgoers about Art in the Colonial Periods, while Atty. Emerson Cuyo addressed An Artist’s Moral and Economic Rights, Duties, and Obligations. The round of talks concluded with a panel discussion featuring Marian Pastor Roces, Cristian Townsend, Noel Sadicon, and Jerry Yapo, who explored AI’s role in shaping contemporary artistic creation.
ManilART ‘24 also featured world-class satellite exhibits. One of these satellite shows, Viaje 4: Filipinism, was hosted across Europe, including Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, delves into the essence of Filipino identity through the works of several artists, including Nino Cris Odosis, Joseph Albao, Ian Maigan, and Windsor Magnaye. Another notable exhibition, Refracted Light, occurred on October 6-7 at Ricardo’s Galeria Al Fresco in Amadeo, Cavite. Lastly, Kutkot Pa More, a solo exhibit by Elmer Nocheseda at Galerie Du Soleil in Taguig, explored his distinctive “kutkot” technique as he came to terms with the onset of Parkinson’s disease.
Lastly, ManilART’s partners provided a delightful wine-and-dine experience while viewing art. Purefoods Deli elevated a beloved brand with its quality franks, sausages, and meats; MOD Coffee offered the perfect pick-me-up; Sebastiao Cocktails helped everyone unwind; and Via Mare was once again present to serve Filipino culinary favorites alongside the art fair.
“ManilART ’24: Prisms and Mosaics” was a celebration of all the shades and hues that make up Philippine contemporary art. Each fairgoer contributed to this vibrant display, reflecting the depth and creativity of the nation’s artistic landscape.
ManilART ’24’s participating galleries include 29 Kapitolyo Art Space, 371 Art Space, Annual Sculpture Review, Art Circle, Art for Space Gallery PH, Artalyer, Artienda Art Gallery, Artologist Gallery, Artes Orientes, AT Art Gallery, Daloy Likha Art Gallery, Drybrush Gallery, Espacio Manila, Florentino Gallery, Galeria Bañez, Galleria Nicolas, Galerie Artes, Galerie Raphael, Gallery Nine, Historia Art, Legacy, Life ’n Arts Gallery, M Gallery MNL, Museo Orlina, NAMI Art Gallery, OMVI Art Gallery, Pugad ni Art, Rayos del Sol Gallery, Renaissance Art Gallery, VAM International Art Gallery, Village Art Gallery and Ysobel Art Gallery.
The fair was 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, Purefoods 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.
Featured Artist Stella Rojas presents her 33 captivating artworks at the esteemed Gallery C within the hotel, offering a glimpse into her unforgettable European adventures.
Conrad Manila proudly unveils the latest addition to its renowned “Of Art and Wine” exhibition series with the captivating showcase, “Balade” with Artist Stella Rojas. Showcasing Stella Rojas’ extraordinary talent, this collection comprises 33 exquisite artworks that beautifully capture her immersive journeys across Paris, its outskirts, and the picturesque French countryside. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Rojas’ artistic expression at Conrad Manila’s 32nd installment of the esteemed “Of Art and Wine” series.
“Balade is a French word that means to stroll, to wander, and to travel. We invite our guests to visit the hotel’s art gallery and appreciate these impressive creations, which will transport them to the charming alleys of Paris. We are also honored to have our final exhibit this 2024 with Ms. Rojas, who truly embodies impeccable Filipino artistry,” says Fabio Berto, general manager of Conrad Manila.
“Balade” is a captivating collection of artwork that brings to life stunning destinations from across the globe, as seen through the eyes of a Filipina artist. The collection beautifully captures the enchanting allure of France while also offering a glimpse into the diverse landscapes of other European countries, including Italy, Ireland, Norway, and Poland. The series also showcases striking paintings of male and female statues, large-scale close-ups of flora and fauna, as well as sweeping landscapes, all portrayed with the artist’s unique perspective and style.
Rojas with her artwork.
Through her paintings, Rojas invites viewers to see life as a boundless voyage of discovery and adventure. She encourages exploring the unfamiliar by stepping beyond the comfort of one’s homeland and immersing oneself in new experiences. In the process, one can learn about other cultures, embark on a journey of self-discovery, expand one’s mind, and enrich the soul.
“Since I set foot in Paris in 1989, I not only found the City of Lights cold and gorgeous but also electrically charged with the creative energy of the great men and women of the past who have walked its cobbled streets. One distinct quality to note is, although the theme of ‘Balade’ is Parisian, French, and European scenery, the palette is ‘un-European.’ It is, in fact, more Filipino due to the vivid, pure, and intense colors,” Stella Rojas passionately shared.
SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation President Elizabeth Sy, together with featured artist Stella Rojas, Guest of Honor Alice Reyes, Exhibit Curator Nestor Jardin, and Conrad Manila’s General Manager Fabio Berto graced the exhibit launch and spearheaded the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which marked its official opening.
Stella Rojas is a Filipino painter born in Manila on January 19, 1963. Her interest in painting began at the early age of five. In high school at St. Scholastica’s College, she participated in art competitions and received a certificate of merit in the field of fine arts. Rojas graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts, Major in Painting, from the University of the Philippines, Diliman, in 1986.
Rojas’ first solo exhibit was in 1988 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, where she was a Project Awardee of the Contemporary Art Museum of the Philippines. She presented an 8-panel mural in oil on canvas totaling 12 feet x 48 feet entitled “The Bathers.” Since then, she has had yearly (sometimes more often) one-woman shows. To date, Rojas has mounted a total of 46 solo exhibits and countless group shows here and in Paris.
The exhibit featuring the works of Stella Rojas will be open from October 22 to January 04, 2025, at Conrad Manila’s Gallery C. Each artwork is also available for purchase. To learn more about Conrad Manila’s art collection, along with the exclusive privileges and personalized experiences for a luxury stay, visit www.conradmanila.com or call +632 8833 9999.
Klaypel has been in the business of bringing art into every home and touching lives through creativity. For two decades it has carried the symbol of a butterfly, whose wings embody beautiful, delicate colors representing the joy of creativity and the transformative power of art.
This 2024, there is a shift in the spirit. Fueled by the love for all things colorful, Klaypel has crossed the demarcation line between the old and the new—bearing an undeniable boldness and a heightened compassion for the individual.
The new Klaypel finds its kinship in the unlikely zebra. This evolution represents an extensive process of metamorphosis and a collaborative exchange of power between two generations, rooted in complete abandon to a God-given mission. The bold stripes of a zebra not only symbolize an unmatched uniqueness but a renewed sense of power that can only be found when an individual looks within. Like fingerprints, the stripes of one zebra are entirely different from any another, almost mimicking the mark of a Creator’s hands upon nature. Its playful energy echoes throughout its habitat and Klaypel takes this cue to strengthen its commitment to fun and harmony in all its endeavors.
This shift aligns with Klaypel’s dedication to empowering individuals through creativity, building strong communities, and promoting sustainable products and livelihoods. This brand transition will be implemented gradually, ensuring continuity for existing customers while showcasing the evolution of Klaypel. The zebra’s strong association with individuality and strength solidifies the Klaypel brand positioning creating an inclusive environment where all are welcome, flaws and all. The future for Klaypel and its stakeholders, centered on sustainable practices and community development, lies bright and dazzling within in the bold stripes of the zebra.
The 14th Likhang Habi Market Fair gathers the country’s best weavers and artisans, bringing traditions to the next generation.
HABI: The Philippine Textile Council is gearing up for this year’s Likhang Habi Market Fair, happening at the Glorietta Activity Center from October 18 to 20, 2024.
This is the 14th time HABI is organizing the event, as part of its mission to preserve, promote, and enhance Philippine textiles through education, communication, and research, using public and private resources.
HABI was established in 2009. “We started it because we realized that there was no textile society in the Philippines,” said HABI founder and chairman emeritus Maria Isabel “Maribel” Ongpin. “The preservation, development and modernization of our Philippine textiles, which are quite varied, quite unique and very colorful, from all over the archipelago.”
HABI organizers and exhibitors during the media launch at Discovery Primea Hotel in Makati.
Likhang Habi Market Fair was their first project and it has grown so much over the years—from featuring 12 vendors to over a hundred in its recent editions. This year’s fair gathers weavers, artisans, designers and brands from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao—Cordillera, Zamboanga, Ilocos, Socksargen, Negros, Bangsamoro and more.
HABI secretary Rambie Katrina Lim said, “We realized that many of the weavers and crafters are actually quite isolated, so they need a platform to grow and show their product and tell their story. The market fair is a chance for them to interact with a bigger market.”
There are many Likhang Habi Market Fair success stories—artisans who grow from the grassroots to greatness. The passionate women of HABI find joy in witnessing that growth.
“We have a lot of examples of that, like Carlo Eliserio and Raquel Eliserio. Now he’s being invited to and attending international conventions and fairs as well. And he also has a place in a department store now, in Rustan’s. There’s a progression. We really invest and watch our vendors grow,” said HABI president Mia Villanueva, who started her relationship with HABI as a vendor—her bags and accessories brand MCV Designs participates in Likhang Habi Market Fair.
Adelaida Lim, HABI president emeritus said, “We have seen many weavers develop into competent entrepreneurs while improving their craft skills.”
But it’s just one part of what they do.
They’ve published four books on Philippine fabrics and produced three documentaries. They hold the annual Lourdes Montinola Piña Weaving; and the Eloisa Hizon-Gomez Abaca Weaving competitions. They teach and give lectures, connect and collaborate with other organizations here and abroad, and educate about and advocate for Philippine textiles and the people behind them.
The people of HABI “envision a strong Philippine Textile Culture that is vibrant, diverse and very much a part of our modern present” and their work has helped turn that vision into reality.
Thanks to HABI’s efforts, traditional textiles are no longer viewed as just material for native costumes, they’ve become part of daily life, “as contemporary attire with a relevant place in current lifestyles,” Adelaida said.
Another indicator of their success is the growing interest in weaving and Philippine textiles among young people. For a long time, there was concern that weaving was a dying art, that the next generation wasn’t interested in continuing what those before them had started.
One young weaver, LoveLove Monon, granddaughter of Manlilikha ng Bayan Salinta Monon, is featured in HABI’s “Threaded Traditions” documentary “Memoirs of a Textile: Inabal of the Bagobo-Tagabawa.”
Wanting to push for innovation, HABI also decided to create a category in their Piña Weaving Competition for weavers under 30 years old. The year’s Likhang Habi Market Fair theme, “Earth To Loom: Celebrating Natural Dyes in Philippine Textiles,” is something that also speaks to the younger generation, a generation known for their concern about climate change and passion for sustainability.
Maybe it’s the new generation who will make a difference. And HABI is here to help them make it happen.
Visit www.habiphilippinetextilecouncil.com and find HABI: The Philippine Textile Council on Facebook and Instagram (@HABICouncil).
