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‘Ang Larawan: The Musical’ is a tour de force in the PH theater

The all-star cast, Alice Reyes Dance Philippines’ dancers, and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab, presented Contra Mundum, a star-studded concert version of Ang Larawan: The Musical, held at the Manila Metropolitan Theatre last May 6, 2023.

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Manila Metropolitan Theatre, and Culturtain Musicat have offered a one-night-only Saturday performance of the three-act musical to celebrate the 50th-anniversary of the Order of the National Artists of the Philippines and National Heritage Month. It was also streamed for free on MET’s official Facebook page.

The country’s best artists from the film, music, and theatre industry united on stage to perform the greatest Filipino stage musical ever made. The stellar cast includes Celeste Legaspi, Bituin Escalante, Dulce, Aicelle Santos, Audie Gemora, Mitch Valdez, Karylle Tatlonghari, Hajji Alejandro, Kakai Bautista, Mikki Bradshaw-Volante, Kakki Teodoro, Nyoy Volante, Menchu Lauchengo-Yulo, Agot Isidro, Bodjie Pascua, Jericho Rosales, Sandino Martin, Markki Stroem, Nanette Inventor, Jojit Lorenzo, Jaime Fabregas, Nonoy Froilan, Paulo Avelino, Roeder Camañag, Ricky Davao, Rachel Alejandro, and Bea Alonzo.

The musical was based on the National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin’s stage play, A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino. It tells about two spinster sisters who are barely making ends meet despite having the ability to sell the symbolic and valuable last painting that their sick father made.

The musical play was staged several times by different theatre companies through the years, starting with its non-musical and original script presented with its English text in 1955, and it became more popular for its Tagalog musical adaptation in 1997, translated and lyrics by Rolando S. Tinio, and music by Ryan Cayabyab. The musical was even made into a film in 2017, directed by Loy Arcenas, which is an entry to the 43rd Metro Manila Film Festival that won the Best Picture award.

In Contra Mundum, the producers put a great effort to bring a top-notch stage musical, which is a pure Filipino masterpiece and a precious gem in literature, music, and arts. The concert version was brought to life with Chris Millado’s direction.

The concert had different actors who portrayed some roles in each act, showcasing different approaches to the lead characters of Candida and Paula, as well as Tony Javier and Bitoy Camacho.

Winter David’s minimalist set design and Barbie Tan-Tiongco’s wonderful lighting design complement all mise-en-scènes that were on point, making the entire show complete perfection with Joyce Garcia’s projection design. National Artist Badong Bernal, with well-known costume designers Gino Gonzales and Francis Libiran did a great job of making all the artists’ costumes fit their character’s bone structure and be realistic based on the story set in the 1940s.

Ang Larawan: The Musical is truly a must-see for everyone, especially millennials as if it is both entertaining and enlightening. Never boring, it is a spectacular musical for its wonderful music score, a high-spirited conga number led by Elsa Montes (Bea Alonzo), and inspired performances by the talented cast. It is also enlightening and informative, giving us a glimpse of Old Manila through the play’s dialogues, scenes, and songs. It shows a part of our history through a fictional tale of an impoverished family, specifically the spinster sisters, who are trying to desperately hold on to and fight for what is left behind – the painting, the house, their values – in the face of materialism, the changing times and the looming second World War.

Contra Mundum, the musical play’s concert version, is truly a tour de force in the Philippine Theatre that pays tribute to our very own art and culture. It is both a literal (the actual painting) and figurative (the Filipino artist) depiction of the Filipino artist. It is a sad commentary about starving artists who write or paint for their personal satisfaction. Their art gives them food for the soul but there is that sad realization that they also need to earn to put food on the table.

The award-winning film adaptation of the musical is now available for streaming on Netflix. It can also be streamed on iWantTFC.

Contributed by Rayne Jarabo

#AngLarawanTheMusical #ContraMundum #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Breaking Stereotypes: Redefining Fatherhood Through Art

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this transformative exhibition, on display until July 8, 2023, at the Imahica Art Gallery.

 

In a bold and inspiring move, a groundbreaking exhibition is challenging traditional notions of fatherhood and redefining the role of fathers in our society. “Inheritance: Tracing Lineage & Inspiration” is an extraordinary display that seeks to dismantle preconceived notions and celebrate the diversity and depth of the paternal experience through experiencing the artworks of Pandy Aviado, Diana Aviado, Fil Delacruz, Janos Delacruz, Roy Espinosa, Pauline Allison Espinosa, Nikulas Lebajo, Beatrice Lebajo, Fernando Sena, Tintin Sena, and Oddin Sena.

 This thought-provoking event serves as a platform to explore the multifaceted nature of fatherhood. Through diverse artistic expressions, the exhibition showcases the unique journeys, perspectives, and narratives of fathers from all walks of life. It aims to break down stereotypes and highlight fathers’ immense impact on their children’s lives.

Beatrice Lebajo and her artworks

“Inheritance: Tracing Lineage & Inspiration” challenges the traditional image of fathers as sole providers and disciplinarians. Instead, it embraces the complexity of fatherhood by showcasing tender moments of nurturing, emotional vulnerability, and deep connection between fathers and their children. The artworks on display offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of experiences that fathers bring to their roles, dispelling misconceptions and fostering understanding.

Through visual art, this exhibition invites visitors to engage with the stories of fathers who have defied societal norms and forged their own paths. It encourages us to question and reassess our assumptions, celebrating the diversity of fatherhood experiences and the power of acceptance and inclusivity.

“Inheritance: Tracing Lineage & Inspiration” goes beyond celebrating individual fathers; it aims to provoke meaningful conversations and inspire societal change. By challenging traditional roles and expectations, the exhibition invites us to envision a future where fathers are recognized as active participants in their children’s lives, capable of nurturing and emotional support.

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this transformative exhibition, on display from June 17 to July 8, 2023, at the Imahica Art Gallery. Step into a world where stereotypes are shattered, and the true essence of fatherhood is celebrated. Join us in embracing the richness and diversity of paternal experiences and championing a more inclusive and progressive society. For more information, please contact 0917 894 5646. Together, let us redefine fatherhood through the power of art.

 

#Inheritance2023  #ImahicaArtGallery #groupexhibit #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Artist Mylene Quito hopes to inspire women through her art

For her forthcoming second solo exhibit in October, the artist will showcase her “Belle Fleur” series calling for women’s empowerment.

 

There is truly no limit to what a woman can do. Artist Mylene Quito proves this with her second solo exhibit this coming October 2022 at Ayala Malls Manila Bay featuring her “Belle Fleur” series calling for women empowerment. She hopes to inspire women to follow their passion, continue to reinvent themselves, and bloom.

The black backdrop in the Belle Fleur collection symbolizes all the dark times and failures she experienced throughout her art journey. Quito recalls all the painful storms she went through and reminisces an episode where a critic said she will not make it. Claiming she wasn’t talented enough, and would never succeed without their help . . .  all of which she now feels thankful for as she realized it only made her stronger.

Every painting in the collection are flowers that symbolize the diversity of women – soft, sweet, powerful; all silhouetted with golden linings – symbolic of rebirth and indestructibility.  “No matter what a woman’s flaws and imperfections are, we are uniquely beautiful,” Quito shares.

The Lotus is one of her favorite pieces, a testimony of human resilience and unwavering spirit; also a flower often associated with rebirth and enlightenment. Latched in mud, it submerges in the river and blooms sparkling clean in the morning. Similar to life, we are filled with different problems and anxieties but we will always find a way to rise.

From her La Familia exhibit inspired by her childhood roots, Quito pushes for more greatness beyond as she conquers the Philippine art industry.

From one woman in bloom to another, she says, “Once you become a successful woman, remember to raise others. Start a domino [effect] through your kindness and always remember to stay grounded.”

 

#MyleneQuito #visualartist #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Lebajo Studio: A legacy of more than 50 years of artistic pursuits

The studio is a ground-breaking project of one of the respected icons of Philippine visual arts, Raul Lebajo.

This year marks the 80th birthday of one of the respected icons of Philippine visual arts, master surrealist Raul Lebajo. What makes the celebration significant is that it coincides with the fulfillment of his ground-breaking project – a studio – which now houses his masterpieces, old and new, and can showcase them to a range of art lovers and collectors, even to up-and-coming artists.

Nestled inside the sprawling Lebajo ArtFarm and family resort in Sinaliw Malaki, Alfonso, Cavite, the studio is a two-floor edifice with wide spaces. The roof interior is made of bamboo sticks, which emits a cool atmosphere and looks exquisite aesthetically.

The first floor serves as the main studio. It displays various works of the Lebajo patriarch and his two sons Nikulas and Gio, who both pursued their father’s artistic inclination to arts. The second floor or the loft is where the working area of Raul can be found. It is here where Raul stays most of the time painting to his heart’s content while having a view over the verdant surroundings of the farm.

The main studio is where all the paintings of the Lebajo patriarch are being displayed.

 

Nikulas Lebajo’s masterpiece (left) and Raul Lebajo’s huge artwork adorn the main studio.

 

“Inspiration comes from a wellspring of imagination – what I see from my surroundings – from simple to the most extraordinary, things I can draw motivation from,” Raul shares. “I just keep on painting. No one forces me to paint. It’s like a stream of thoughts, which keeps flowing when creativity is at its peak.”

Raul believes that an artist is someone creative, passionate, and effective. He is someone who is not constrained by money. Ultimately, the reward will come when people see the value of your work, he quips.

“I’m grateful that I can leave behind a legacy that my children and grandchildren will carry on,” Raul muses.

 

Two masters: Raul Lebajo welcomes National Artist BenCab to ArtFarm.

 

Not too far from the main gallery is the basement, where the master’s bedroom is located, then the guest room, and kitchen area. The look and feel of the property all came from Raul’s ideas.

One of the best parts of having the studio in this location is to be closer to nature. The scenery is delightful and tranquil. The air is a lot cleaner and fresher, too. You feel relaxed. You can look forward to a picturesque sunrise and be fascinated with the chirping of the birds around you while doing your gardening activities.

 

Raul and his wife Elena nurture together the ArtFarm.

Staying in this kind of healthy and comforting environment makes the artist more productive in creating masterpieces that resonate with his present views of the world at the time of the pandemic.

For the time being, the studio accepts visitors by appointment only. For inquiries, call +639296956656 and look for Gio Lebajo.

#lebajostudiogallery #lebajoartfarm #alfonsocavite #legacy #mastersurrealist #visualarts #filipinoartist #naturefarm #sanctuary #paintings #surrealism #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

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His legacy will live on

National Artist for Visual Arts Arturo Luz passed away peacefully on May 26. He was 94.

Arturo Luz, painter, sculptor, designer, and esteemed Philippine National Artist in the visual arts passed away Wednesday night, leaving behind a legacy in the arts that “exemplify an ideal of sublime austerity in expression and form.”

His daughter, former TV personality, Angela Luz, announced that the 94-year-old artist passed away peacefully while she was at his side at 8:45 pm on May 26.

“God blessed my father with 94 of the most wonderful years on earth. He enriched our lives with his art, his incredible talent, and his genius. As a father and a grandfather, he was simply the best. He was the most kind and generous human being. And as a husband to my mother, he was perfect. He will be terribly missed, but will never be forgotten. His legacy will live on, and will last forever,” wrote Angela on her Facebook post.

“He enriched our lives with his art, with his incredible talent and his genius,” wrote Angela Luz on her Facebook account. Courtesy Angela Luz FB account

Luz was born on November 20, 1926, and was a founding member of the modern Neo-Realist school in Philippine art. He was educated at the University of Santo Tomas School of Fine Arts in Manila, and then went on to the Art School of the Brooklyn Museum in New York, and to the Académie Grade Chaumière in Paris. He became the director of the Metropolitan Museum of Manila in 1976, holding the position until 1986. He was named National Artist in 1997.

Luz’s notable works include the Carnival series of the late 1950s to the recent Cyclist paintings.

Among his other significant paintings are Bagong Taon, Vendador de Flores, Skipping Rope, Candle Vendors, Procession, Self-Portrait, Night Glows, Grand Finale, Cities of the Past, Imaginary Landscapes.

His mural painting Black and White is displayed in the lobby of the CCP’s Bulwagang Carlos V. Francisco (Little Theater). His sculpture of a stainless steel cube is located in front of the Benguet Mining Corporation Building in Pasig.

He produced works that elevated the Filipino aesthetic vision to new heights of sophisticated simplicity.

He established the Luz Gallery that professionalized the art gallery as an institution and set a prestigious influence over generations of Filipino artists. He inspired and developed a Filipino artistic community that nurtures impeccable designs.

Sources: Yahoo News, NCCA, Angela Luz FB account

Featured photo courtesy of NCCA

#ArturoLuz #NationalArtist #visualarts #legacy #DeathofArturoLuz #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Raul Lebajo’s ‘Enter His World’ Book Launch

In his book, the artist invites the viewer and art lover to enter his fantastic world and pursue the surrealist vision in his paintings and drawings.

It was a proud moment for our family when my father-in-law, master surrealist painter Raul Lebajo launched his first coffee table book entitled, “Enter His World,” at the Ayala Museum recently. Finally, it has been out after 20 years in the making. It was authored by noted art critic and historian, Alice Guillermo, and published by LC: Questor Worldwide Corporation.

In his book, the artist invites the viewer and art lover to enter his fantastic world and pursue the surrealist vision in these paintings and drawings.  “Special to Lebajo’s art is the experience of universal energy that courses throughout the whole nature,” describes the author. ”

Lebajo’s masterpieces crafted over the years are divided into several topics which composed the book’s entirety.  Of course, there are landscapes of cosmic energy, the secret life of plants, offerings of fruit, an uncommon aviary, reinventing nature, varieties of organic life, a marine universe, humans in nature, forces as archetypes, cosmic furniture, the vases series, sculptures, and other works.

“Raul Lebajo is a true artist of nature, but this does not mean that he does traditional landscapes and still life paintings of flowers. He does not paint valleys of earth, trees, and sky as though they stretched out before him, or does he paint flowers bunched together in a vase for his personal delectation. Not for him is a linear perspective, for, in fact, he plays with perspective, and his views are often warped, telescoped, spiraling, and spinning into multiple worlds,” – Alice Guillermo. She received her graduate degrees in France and at the University of the Philippines-Diliman.