Category: Arts & Culture

Masipag Art Group pays tribute to working-class heroes in ARTablado show

In an age of pop cultural superheroes, multiverses and galaxies far, far away, a group of artists decided to give props to the real heroes among us: the laborers who put entire industries upon their backs.

“(Our exhibit titled) “Dakilang Manggagawa” ay isang pagpupugay sa ating mga kababayan na walang sawang nagsasakripisyo alang-alang sa mamamayan. Kaya bilang pasasalamat, ito ang maging tribute namin para sa kanila.”

This is according to Rico Aunzo, spokesperson of the Masipag Artist Group (MAG), which is featured in an exhibit which is ongoing until July 31 at Robinsons Land ARTablado, Upper Ground Floor, Main Mall of Robinsons Antipolo.

The group had its origin in the Manawari Art Group page on Facebook in 2019. The members did not know each other formally. They would just communicate via social media and share their love for art and all things creative. The FB group evolved into a full-blown art group called Masipag to stress the importance of hard work, grit and perseverance to reach the summit of one’s career.

“Ang kasipagan ang susi ng kaginhawaan,” says Aunzo. The group takes inspiration from the words of the late great Tagalog poet Jose Corazon de Jesus: “Bawat patak ng pawis mo’y / yumayari ka ng dangal / dinadala mo ang lahi mo / sa luklukan ng tagumpay.”

The founder and president of MAG is neo-realist painter Naptalie “Rico” Aunzo, whose art style is characterized by a modern, traditional and cubist take on classic Filipino tropes and customs, with a recurring protagonist named “Pedrong Masipag.” Pedrong Masipag is meant to represent traits and virtues that an everyday Filipino possesses — as an antithesis to the poster-boy of laziness in Pinoy folklore, Juan Tamad. Pedrong Masipag is described as a decent gentleman, dressed in a traditional barong Tagalog and salakot, and often illustrated doing noble deeds.

With Aunzo are Daniel Dumaguit, sculptor-painter Nelson Basa, Pol A. Mesina (the founder of Artipolo Group Inc.), Jayson Borlon, Krister Jhude Isip, Rem Kulas, Mori, Hannah Castalone, Ton Muñoz, Efren Saludar, Rodgie Gapayao, Doodz Iligan, Dominic Gomez, Antonio Pacuan Jr., Leo De Fraga Torcelino, Joyce Pertez and Mark Aparato.

“Sila po ang naging aktibo sa nabuong grupo na ito at handang makipag tulungan upang maging successful ang kauna-unahang exhibit namin.”

The group is grateful to be given the spotlight by an art space known for welcoming artists from all walks of life.

“Ang ARTablado po ang magiging pinaka-malaking susi namin upang maisakatuparan po ang lahat ng aming nilalayon at pinapangarap. Dahil po diyan, taos-puso po ang pasasalamat namin sa Robinsons at sa bumubuo ng ARTablado.”

The people behind Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) believe in the ingenuity and artistry of Filipinos. RLC has allocated spaces in Robinsons Antipolo and Robinsons Galleria Ortigas to hold exhibitions for art practitioners who deserve to showcase their hard work, grit and perseverance. ARTablado’s impact has been instantaneous for members of the art community who have been pining for a platform where every artist — young or old, established or up-and-coming — is welcome.

“Labis-labis ang galak namin na ang aming grupo ay makakapag-simula ng maabot ang pangarap. Ang tinitingalang ARTablado ay isang haligi na may matibay na pundasyon. Tiyak na ang aming pagsisikap ay mabibigyan ng ganap na suporta. At ito na po ang magiging simula ng katuparan ng aming mga pangarap.”

July 11, 2023
12 New Plays For Virgin LabFest 19 Announced

The 12 new plays which will be staged in 2024 are: Sentenaryo by Herlyn Alegre; Vengeance of the Gods by Hans Pieter Arao; Si Hesus naa sa US by Neil Azcuna; Ningas by Lino Balmes; Ang Munting Liwanag sa Madilim na Sulok ng Isang Serbeserya sa Maynila by Dustin Celestino; The Foxtrot by Chesie Galvez-Cariño; The Divine Family by Dip Mariposque; Love on the Brain by Rick Patriarca; Sa Babaeng Lahat by Elise Santos; Pagkapit sa Hangin by Joshua Lim So; Identité by Jhudiel Clare Sosa; and Abo-Kaykay Ang Ikalawang Yugto by Ara Jenika Vinzon.

The 12 untried, untested and unstaged plays were selected from the 145 submissions received early this year. The selection committee was composed of festival directors Tess Jamias and Marco Viaña, together with VLF founders Writers Bloc Inc’s Rody Vera and director-playwright Herbie Go.

Three plays from the 18^th edition will be revisited on its 2024 run, namely Zheg Arban’s Room 209, directed by Delphine Buencamino; Andrew Estacio’s Ang Awit ng Dalagang Marmol, directed by Nazer Degayo Salcedo; and Dingdong Novenario’s Dominador Gonzales, National Artist, directed by George de Jesus III.

Stay updated by following the CCP’s official social media accounts. Visit our website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) for tickets and inquiries.

July 1, 2023
Embark on an Artistic Journey: Arvin Narvaez’s Enthralling ‘Continuum’ at ARTablado, Unveiled

There’s a moment of pause when you ask artist Arvin Narvaez to pin a label on his artwork. An expected, yet revealing pause.

Narvaez explains that he’s perpetually in a state of exploration, making it impossible to categorize his work neatly. “I am trying to explore and learn further by being more aware through the process of creating, hoping to arrive and discover uncharted grounds,” he shares.

Navigating Uncharted Creativity

Having made a name for himself with his intricate ink-and-pencil creations, brimming with linear formations, depth, and illusion, Narvaez has boldly moved to abstracts in acrylic. His reason? A compelling restlessness and visual curiosity.

“I was breaking the notion that artists are encouraged to repeat and are discouraged to explore. And art for me is about discovering and arriving at a certain visual representation, a continuous evolution of processes, as well as learning and developing ideas which then lead to a cycle of change — yet still encapsulate the very nature of being human,” he muses.

Continuum: An Artistic Journey

Robinsons Land ARTablado now presents “Continuum,” Narvaez’s latest exhibit, on display until June 30 at the ARTablado space in Robinsons Galleria. The showcased pieces narrate the artist’s ongoing quest and raise intriguing questions.

“In the first years of creating and with a powerful creative drive, it often led to wanting to explore further. I started with what was there and then the journey unfolded. It was a natural process when discovering other materials that imply the other aspects of a visual language, which I was trying to express, communicate, and arrive at. It is still an ongoing process,” he explains.

Aesthetic Influences

Influenced by artistic giants like De Stijl, Jaap Wagemaker, Mark Rothko, Jose Joya, and Gus Albor, Narvaez’s goal is to “break the fear of stepping into unfamiliar grounds, to further seek, and to give meaning with this life, with what I do — with the acceptance of belief and discarding of doubts.”

His journey of exploration and experimentation eventually birthed minimalist pieces. Narvaez offers an insight into his choice of the word “continuum” for his exhibit.

“(The suite of paintings is) a mix of visual representations from recent styles, a merging of approaches leading to minimalist pieces. They directly represent the time frame and stories of the works. They deal with the realizations and learning that went throughout the entire process of creating the series,” he reveals.

ARTablado: Fostering Artistic Expression

Galleries often encourage artists to stick to a defined style, but Robinsons Land ARTablado breaks this mold by providing fertile ground for artistic exploration. The team behind Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) firmly believes in the inventive genius of Filipino artists. They’ve dedicated spaces in Robinsons Galleria and Robinsons Antipolo for exhibits, giving deserving art practitioners a platform to share their vision, talent, and explorative spirit.

ARTablado has been a welcome change for members of the art community, offering a platform where artists, regardless of their stage in their career, are welcome.

A Serendipitous Encounter

When offered a space by ARTablado, Narvaez was taken by surprise. Unbeknownst to him, he had been speaking with Roseann Villegas, a key driver behind ARTablado’s art initiative.

For the artist, it was a case of “what you seek is actually seeking you.” He adds, “This saying truly works in such mysterious and wonderful ways.”

Visitors to Arvin Narvaez’s “Continuum” will swiftly discover the myriad of emotions that can be stirred by mixed media gestures on canvas—as horizons of vision and consciousness take form.

So why not immerse yourself in the journey of Narvaez’s art exploration and lose yourself in the minimalist wonder that is “Continuum”? You may just find your own horizons broadening as well, as you absorb the raw emotions and deep introspections captured in each piece.

Exploring Emotions, Sparking Conversation

Through the artist’s powerful work, viewers are invited to question, feel, and connect. Each piece is a conversation, a compelling story that unravels with every gaze. Narvaez’s art is not only an exploration of his own artistic journey but a catalyst for viewers to explore their own emotions and thoughts.

For those unfamiliar with the language of abstract art, fear not. Narvaez’s pieces, in their simplicity and depth, make for an accessible entry point. With each piece, he strips away complexity, distilling emotions into raw, visceral forms.

Art, in its many forms, allows us to explore our understanding of the world around us. It is a mirror that reflects not only the artist’s thoughts and feelings but also our own interpretations and emotional responses. With his latest exhibition, Narvaez invites us all to step into his world, to explore the boundaries of our own understanding and to engage in a conversation with his art.

“Continuum” is on display until June 30 at the ARTablado space in Robinsons Galleria. Take this opportunity to engage with Narvaez’s thought-provoking pieces and perhaps, discover a new language of emotion and exploration.

June 21, 2023
REVIEW: On its third staging, The Necessary Theater’s ‘Red’ by John Logan is as relevant as ever

Disclaimer: John Logan’s ‘Red‘ is probably one of my favourite plays of all time. I’ve seen it twice before, as staged by Bart Guingona ten years ago also for The Necessary Theater. He produced it once at the SDA Theater in Benilde in 2013 and again in the CCP in 2014, both with Joaquin Valdez. My attachment to the play and its earlier productions have given me a different insight into Logan’s very cerebral, very articulate play about a fictional hypothesis of why celebrated abstract impressionist Mark Rothko returned a then-very lucrative 35,000 dollar commission to paint murals in the Seagram building’s bougie Four Season restaurant, which rocked the art world in that period.

Running approximately 90-minutes with no intermission, ‘Red’ is a two-hander, with Bart Guingona playing the eccentric painter and JC Santos playing the fictional assistant Ken, who comes to work with Rothko at the time of the painting of the Seagram murals. Broken down into scenes, the play becomes a means by which Rothko can openly discuss his views on art and commercialism and consumerism and the then-modern world’s deterioration in its ability to “be human.” In the play, Rothko is deftly smart and unafraid to lord it over his new assistant. He lashes out and asks Ken to “be a human being for once in your life” while asking the same assistant to “be kind” to his paintings.

Ten years ago, Guingona approached this role with a bit of humor. There was a knowing delivery in the way that his Rothko went at Ken. But with Santos eager, bright-eyed Ken looking so vulnerable and fragile, it brings out the cruelty in Guingona’s new approach. He’s mean. He’s condescending. Ten years have aged Guingona’s approach and there’s a world weariness to his Rothko that is emphasized later on in the play when he starts to feel attacked by the pop artists like Warhol and Lichenstein who have begun to take the art world by storm.

The play is didactic. Rothko and Ken argue, debate, and discuss the intricacies of the color red, Rothko’s own vision and belief about art and culture, and the world’s movement away from all things sophisticated and high brow. Through it, we also investigate the complex relationship between the two characters as Rothko inadvertently becomes mentor, friend, and even father figure to the young Ken, something which he explicitly says he isn’t at the very start.

What makes all of these nuanced shifts and tonal changes apparent is Santos’ portrayal of Ken. As mentioned, he opens the play doe-eyed and innocent but as each scene unfolds, he adds new layers to his relationship with Rothko. He is more comfortable with him as time passes – at first he deigns to ask questions, his posture shifts, the way he looks at the master artist tempers down and then later, he stands his ground and even answers back, he can look at Rothko in the eye and not flinch – the way by which Santos conveys the passage of time is so distinct that it makes the play. Unfortunately, Guingona has chosen to portray Rothko at a fixed point. He doesn’t change except for the ending when he manages to bring out a vulnerability Guingona wasn’t able to tap in earlier productions, it’s only at the finale that he becomes human. But throughout the first three quarters of the play, his approach feels of one note.

And there’s a mannered direction to their line delivery. It’s as if Guingona, who also directs the play, leans heavily into the theatricality of the material. Both characters are very eloquent and very articulate. The mannered way of line delivery lends very well to the moments when the characters enter into their monologues. By emphasizing the scriptedness of the play, the message of the play really jumps out. But there’s also a tension that is created when the play also obsesses over the workings of painting. While talking, the two are engaged in busy-ness. Santos is either always mixing paint or setting up a canvas. The canvasses are huge too and the pair must navigate the cluttered set to move things around. Oftentimes, the stage feels too small for their movements but it helps create this tension of organic activity with the theatricality of the performances.

And the play is as relevant as it ever was! This is an age where AI technology threatens to replace artists and the making of art. This is an age where the new generation boasts of such short attention span that they seem unable to handle overwhelmingly heavier things. This is an age of smart shaming and a changing of the guard. In a way, ‘Red’ as a play becomes a cultural signpost – an anchor, if you will – that reminds us to not be afraid of knowledge and to ask more from the world. To not just settle for “pretty pictures” but to grapple with the stuff of life so passionately.

My Rating:

Don’t miss out on the final weekend of RED, John Logan’s play, in Manila. Catch the remaining shows on June 16 at 8pm, June 17 at 3pm and 8pm, and June 18 at 3pm and 8pm. These are the last 5 shows! RED is currently being staged at PETA. Secure your tickets now by purchasing them here.

June 14, 2023
Wisdom of Da Vinci: An Immersive AI Experience comes to life at One Bonifacio High Street

Immerse yourself in the extraordinary fusion of art and artificial intelligence at Bonifacio High Street (BHS). Teaming up with the award-winning, innovative new media studio from Istanbul, Ouchhh, BHS brings a unique spectacle, ‘Wisdom of Da Vinci: An Immersive AI Experience’, right in the heart of Manila.

Ticket reservations are open, welcoming all into the realm of Leonardo Da Vinci, but with an unexpected twist. Instead of traditional canvas and brush, this exhibit employs algorithms and billions of data as artistic tools. Thus, creating a masterpiece where the strokes of art intertwine seamlessly with elements of science and technology, all powered by AI.

As you step into this innovative space, prepare to be swept into a vortex of large-scale data paintings, accentuated with vibrant audio-visual projections. Whether you’re a seasoned art connoisseur or one searching for that perfect snapshot, ‘Wisdom of Da Vinci’ promises a feast for the senses.

Keeping true to Da Vinci’s legacy as a beacon of the Renaissance era, this exhibit aims to ignite a digital renaissance of its own. It echoes BGC’s mission to consistently blaze trails in retailtainment by crafting immersive experiences for the Filipino audience.

‘Wisdom of Da Vinci: An Immersive AI Experience’ is nestled on the 3rd Level of One Bonifacio High Street, 5th Avenue, BGC, Taguig. The exhibit is set to run from August to October, with tickets priced at P975 for adults, and P780 for students.

Secure your tickets now here and stay tuned to Bonifacio High Street’s official Facebook page for more thrilling updates.

This multi-sensorial showcase comes to life thanks to the collaboration with Metrobank, along with the generous support of Globe, Live PH, EastWest Ageas Insurance, Media Display Solutions, and TikTok.

#WisdomofDaVinci
#OneBHS

June 8, 2023
Jason Arrow Takes the Lead in HAMILTON’s First-Ever Global Tour

Jason Arrow is all set to take center stage as Alexander Hamilton in the internationally acclaimed production, HAMILTON. The announcement was made by producers Jeffrey Seller and Michael Cassel AM, setting the stage for the much-anticipated international tour of the Tony®, Grammy®, Olivier, and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical, which kicks off in Manila this September.

Jason Arrow as Alexander Hamilton | Photo Credit: Sam Bisso

Arrow isn’t a stranger to the role, having graced the Australian stages of Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane as Alexander Hamilton since March 2021. His current performance in Auckland continues to draw applause and accolades.

Hamilton Australia | Photo Credit: Daniel Boud

Bridging Borders With HAMILTON’s Legacy

Michael Cassel AM, the producer of HAMILTON’s international tour, praised Arrow’s portrayal of the iconic role as nuanced, thoughtful, and searing. ““Jason’s nuanced, thoughtful and searing rendition of Alexander Hamilton has been beloved by audiences throughout Australia and New Zealand, we are thrilled that he will continue bringing his sensational performance to audiences around the world in HAMILTON’s international tour,” he expressed. The producer expressed his thrill for Arrow’s performance to reach audiences worldwide during the international tour.

Jason Arrow – Hamilton Australia | Photo Credit: Daniel Boud

In response to the announcement, Arrow expressed his gratitude and excitement. “Playing Alexander Hamilton has been the single greatest honour of my career and I am so proud to have the opportunity to continue to learn so much from this character,” he shared. He further stated his eagerness to bring the celebrated musical to audiences across the globe.

Jason Arrow and Australian Hamilton Cast | Photo Credit: Daniel Boud

Stay Tuned for the Full Cast Announcement

The full cast of the HAMILTON international tour is set to be unveiled in the coming months.

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Charting the Course of HAMILTON’s International Journey

Currently captivating audiences at Spark Arena in Auckland, HAMILTON is set to make its grand premiere in Manila at The Theatre at Solaire in September, before embarking on its Middle East premiere at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi in January 2024. Further city announcements are expected in the upcoming months.

Grab Your Tickets to Witness the HAMILTON Phenomenon

Tickets for the Auckland, Manila, and Abu Dhabi seasons can be procured now at hamiltonmusical.com/international-tour.

Since its Broadway premiere in August 2015, HAMILTON has been dazzling audiences across the globe, with performances in London’s West End, Australia, Germany, and most recently, New Zealand. The musical, with its distinctive blend of hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and Broadway score, chronicles the life of American founding father Alexander Hamilton in a transformative theatrical experience and created a revolutionary moment in theatre – a musical that has had a profound impact on culture, politics and education.

Lin-Manuel Miranda

The Unstoppable Global Force of HAMILTON

Brought to life by Lin-Manuel Miranda’s compelling lyrics, Thomas Kail’s dynamic direction, Andy Blankenbuehler’s expressive choreography, and Alex Lacamoire’s musical supervision and orchestrations, HAMILTON is based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography. HAMILTON is a representation of America’s past narrated by its present. The global sensation has bagged numerous awards, including 11 Tony Awards®, seven Olivier Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and the 2016 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theatre Album.

Stay updated on HAMILTON news and updates by visiting hamiltonmusical, Instagram, or Facebook.

June 5, 2023
Unleashing Creativity Knows No Age: The Artistic Journey of Rolando Delos Santos

Creativity and passion defy the boundaries of age, bringing forth art that resonates deeply with people. Rolando Delos Santos, a septuagenarian artist, perfectly embodies this ethos. His evocative paintings transport us back to quieter, simpler times. His paintings, transcending time, invite viewers to a slower, more serene era.

Delos Santos takes center stage at ARTablado in Robinsons Galleria from June 1-15, showcasing a collection that paints tranquility in every stroke. His canvas comes alive with serene pastoral scenes, bursts of flowers, and intricate still life depictions featuring Chinese blue and white porcelain and detailed white tablecloths.

Born and raised in Tanay, Rizal, Delos Santos fell in love with drawing as a young boy, sketching out comic book illustrations. “In grade school, I would copy the illustrations in comic books. Most of the time, these tended to be human figures in action or at war.”

He drew inspiration from renowned comic illustrators such as F.C. Javinal, Nestor Redondo, and F.V. Conching. “I wanted to do what they were doing so I would copy their drawings.”

His artistic journey led him to study Fine Arts at Feati University, where he honed his distinct painting style. His work has been celebrated in numerous solo exhibits and acclaimed group shows, including “100 Years, 100 Artists” at the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

A notable commissioned project found Delos Santos painting 27 floral artworks that adorned the lobby of the Heritage Hotel Manila. This significant commission allowed him to build his own house. “I was able to have a house built from the commission I received for that project. I had been living in an apartment for five years before I was tapped by the hotel,” he said. Another cherished memory is when former First Lady Imelda Marcos purchased one of his paintings during a solo exhibit held in a department store in Makati.

His upcoming exhibit at ARTablado, aptly titled “Vision of Reality,” highlights the importance of an artist’s vision. It is this vision that gives life and color to everyday objects, creating vibrant images from the mundane. “From that singular vision, we are able to create images and pictures solely from our minds. It really depends on what you see as an artist and how you are able to bring those images to life. As artists, we gaze at the mundane, the everyday items and imbue color and meaning to them,” he shares.

To budding artists, Rolando offers sage advice: “Use your God-given talents wisely. Figure out what your passion is and stay the course. Even as a child I already knew what I wanted to do, and that was to make art.”

Being featured in renowned art books by Manuel Duldulao has extended his artistic reach. Delos Santos considers his feature in ARTablado a blessing, as it provides artists an avenue to showcase their talents without worrying about the financial aspects of holding an exhibit.

Established in 2020, ARTablado (a portmanteau of “art” and “entablado”) is Robinsons Land’s tribute to Filipino creativity and ingenuity. It empowers emerging and established artists to express themselves freely through art, paving the way for wider recognition of their talent and dedication. So far, ARTablado has hosted over 300 artists and numerous exhibitions.

Experience the timeless artistry of Rolando Delos Santos this June and immerse yourself in his captivating world where every brush stroke tells a story.

June 2, 2023
Dama Ko Lahi Ko Bets on Filipino Culture as Economic Stimulus

Dama Ko Lahi Ko, the volunteer-driven initiative encouraging the celebration of Filipino culture through the five senses every Independence Day, enters its third year.

Established in 2021 by the Filipino Culture Collective, the movement banks on the Filipino’s massive and constant presence on social media to pique interest in, and spread awareness of, what makes Filipino culture unique. In this way, the movement seeks to spotlight Filipino culture (in products, services, and experiences) on the global menu.

Modern Creative Visionaries
In an intimate event held at the prestigious Ito Kish showroom, prominent figures from various creative fields shared their insights on promoting Filipino culture locally and abroad.

Each speaker focused on a sense. Award-winning furniture designer Ito Kish described how growing up in San Pablo, Laguna was a tactile inspiration. Solihiya chairs at his grandmother’s house, balusters that let in cool breezes, became memories woven into his creativity. “Filipino will always be my design language,” he said.

Renowned scenographer Gino Gonzales illustrated the impact of the terno in Philippine history to champion the sense of sight, with vintage photographs showing how the terno was worn in everyday life. “When you wear a terno, you wear your heart on your sleeve,” he said. “You wear your nationality for everyone to know that you are Filipino.”

Artu Nepomuceno, one of the most talked about young photographers today, shared his experience of shooting cultural icon Apo Whang-od for Vogue’s magazine’s April 2023 issue, which rapidly gained worldwide acclaim. “I wanted to photograph Apo Whang-od like my lola,” he said. “When people abroad message me about the cover, they thank me for bringing a piece of home to the world. And now this photo exists in homes everywhere.”

Bayang Barrios’ lilting voice made its entrance before her, captivating the audience. The indigenous musician spoke of her journey to embracing her Manobo roots, culture, and music. She emphasized that more people should appreciate the different kinds of music in our heritage: “Kung hindi natin mamahalin ang kulturang atin, tayo po ay magkakawatak-watak at mismong bansa ay hihina at walang mapatutunguhan.”

Finally, restaurateur Jenny Yrasuegui spoke for the senses of smell and taste. She pointed out that the combination of Filipino hospitality and food is unparalleled. “Filipino food does not need to be elevated because there is nothing to elevate.” she said. “All you need to do is to find creative ways of presenting it.”

Culture and Soft Power
During the event, the movement’s co-founders Leigh Reyes and Len Cabili emphasized the importance of Filipino culture as soft power in a world seeking what’s authentic, memorable, and valuable.

“What can help us advance as a nation can come from who we are. We can all be part of it by living our culture collectively, consciously, and consistently in our everyday lives,” the co-founders emphasized.

Dama Ko Lahi Ko is the unifying theme that compiles all Filipino experiences within the framework of the five senses. By using the hashtag #DamaKoLahiKo when sharing Filipino themes, everyone can actively support the growth and recognition of Filipino culture and talent—shaping a future where the Filipino identity thrives both at home and abroad.

For more information on Dama Ko Lahi Ko and upcoming events, please visit damakolahiko.com or follow us on Instagram: @damakolahiko.

June 2, 2023
Amador Inlayo goes from landscape to Cubism with a twist in ARTablado exhibition

A young Amador Inlayo would accompany his grandmother to go to the church to sell goods. This was decades ago: Antipolo was greener then, more rustic. The boy would marvel at the sights along the way. He soaked everything in.

A lifetime later, Inlayo the painter — inspired by Amorsolo and Kiukok — will let his hands remember on canvas what he saw with his grandmother, doing plein-air painting and expressing that sense of wonder he felt as a kid.

“Ang hindi ko malilimutang painting na aking nilikha ay ’yung landscape sa may Simbahan ng Antipolo,” he shares about a painting bought by the owner of Emilio Aguinaldo College in Manila. “Dahil ang painting na iyun ay sumasalamin sa aking kabataan.”

Robinsons Land ARTablado presents Inlayo’s third solo exhibition titled “Kubismo,” which is on view from June 1 to 15 at ARTablado in Robinsons Antipolo.

The artist is making a transition from landscapes to Cubism with a contemporary approach. He would start with an image of his figurative painting, upload it into his computer, use an app to convert it into a cubistic image, and paint that very image onto a canvas.

Over 30 artworks of his will be featured in his ARTablado show.

“Napili ko ang ARTablado (for my exhibit) dahil ito ay isa sa mga pinakamagandang lugar na pinagdarausan ng mga art exhibitions at maraming natutungan mga artists na katulad ko,” he explains.

The people behind Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) believe in the ingenuity and artistry of Filipino artists. RLC decided to provide a platform for artists from all walks of life, allocating spaces in Robinsons Antipolo and Robinsons Galleria (Ortigas) to hold exhibitions for art practitioners who deserve to showcase their artistic vision and talent. ARTablado’s impact has been instantaneous for members of the art community who have been pining for a platform where every artist — young or old, established or up-and-coming — is welcome.

Artists such as Amador.

“Ang masakit na naramdaman ko noong nagsisimula pa lamang akong mag-pinta ay ’yung wala akong pambili ng materials na pang-pinta at hindi makasali sa mga exhibits dahil sa kawalan ng pera.”

The man strove harder, winning multiple art and painting contests. Various art organizations saw something special in him. Inlayo participated in group shows from Antipolo to Hong Kong, and mounted solo exhibitions — first at Loreland Farm Resort (“Agos” in 2017) and second at Luljettas Hanging Garden Spa (“Lily” in 2019). Now, things are looking up for this humble art practitioner.

Natulungan ako ng art upang maging masaya at maihayag ang aking damdamin. After five years bilang isang full-time artist, naging masaya at masagana ang aking buhay.”

And ARTablado has given Amador Inlayo all the space he needs to present his vision: memory encapsulated as imagery, converted by an app into a cubist form, and repainted as something new to remember all over again.

May 31, 2023
CCP Bulwagang Roberto Chabet Explores ‘Space/Place’ with PinoyPrintMakers

The CCP Bulwagang Roberto Chabet (CCP TIG Gallery) will officially open to the public on May 16, 6pm, with the exhibition by the Association of Pinoyprintmakers (AP), titled “Space/Place.”

On exhibit until June 18, the exhibit features 37 printmakers who respond to the prompt of space by utilizing a limited printable surface of 20×20 inches with their interpretation of the idea of a place.

The featured artists are: Marz Aglipay, Leonardo Aguinaldo, Psalm Astejada, Jose Santos Ardivilla, Melai Arguzon, Diana Aviado, Virgilio “Pandy” Aviado, Luigi Azura, Mars Bugaoan, Elmer Borlongan, Benjie Torrado Cabrera, Kristen Cain, Jandy Carvajal, Salvador Ching, Joey Cobcobo, Salvador Convocar, Noell El Farol, Jess Flores, Annatha Lilo Gutierrez, Tish Hautea, Eugene Jarque, Villia Jefremovas, Carmel Lim Torres, Little Wing Luna, Angelo Magno, Hershey Malinis, Fara Manuel-Nolasco, Gabi Nazareno, Jamel Obnamia, Samm Occeno, KR Rodgers, Angela Silva, Jone Sibugan, Jun-Jun Sta. Ana, Suchin Teoh, Wesley Valenzuela, and Anton Villaruel.

Space/Place takes inspiration from Michel Foucault’s Heterotopia or his musings on the concept of space and how individuals best understand them. The common understanding of space is often associated with people, things, and environments, while Foucault argues that our understanding of it has changed or rather, is constantly changing.

Construction 1, Artist Proof by Kr Rodgers, Relief, 2023

Fundamentally, the printmakers’ response to working with a predetermined printing surface puts into play the dynamics of working within a collective.

The exhibition hopes to investigate how printmaking can be utilized to represent our personal narratives and each artist’s process in place-making. Technique-wise, the prints are products of a variety of hand-pull printmaking techniques which include, but are not limited to relief, intaglio, serigraphy, and lithography.

Defining Territory, 1_1 by Benjamin Torrado Cabrera, Relief Engraving and Monotype Lithograph, 2023

The exhibition highlights how printmaking can be expanded through the exploration of various creative methods and hopefully encourages discussions on the significance of the medium in contemporary art practice.

Formerly known as the Philippine Association of Printmakers, AP is the CCP’s artist-in-residence group for the visual arts. The group has been founded in 1968 at their first studio-workshop at the Philippine Women’s University, through the initiative of artist Manuel Rodriguez Sr., along with its first board members Ivi Avellana, Mila Enage, Lamberto Hechanova, Imelda Nakpil, and Adiel Arevalo who became its first president.

For Joel, 11_25 by Virgilio Pandy Aviado, Relief, 2004

In 1972, the group moved to Jorge Bocobo St., Ermita after raising funds for the construction of a new studio. Through the years, the printmaker group transferred from studio to studio until they finally found a home at the back of the Tanghalang Francisco Balagtas (Folk Arts Theater) in the CCP Complex in 1997. Through the CCP Resident Companies and Associates Program, the studio continues to be AP’s creative space for members and visiting artists.

Through the years, AP has been on top of promoting the art of printmaking in the Philippines, offering workshops on the different techniques of printmaking not just in their studio, but also in the regions.

Every year, AP holds annual shows at the CCP, as well as exhibitions in different galleries and art spaces here and abroad. The group also organizes “Art by the Bay,” an open house event where visitors can chat with the printmakers, participate in printmaking demos, buy artworks, and join print raffles while enjoying good wine and the excellent view of Manila Bay.

For updates, follow the Association of Pinoyprintmakers on Facebook and Instagram. For other inquiries, call the CCP Box Office: 8832-3704/8832-1125 local 1409. Visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) for more information. Follow the official CCP social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates.

May 31, 2023