Tag: artablado

This Mother’s Day, ARTablado shines the spotlight on artists who are moms with the exhibit “Woman I Am,” happening at ARTablado Robinsons Galleria, until May 15.

Since 2020, ARTablado, a Robinsons Land initiative, has been supporting Filipino artists by providing them with venues so they can bring their art closer to people. In the past years, ARTablado, a portmanteau of the words “art” and “entablado,” has featured artists both rising and established at its art stages in Robinsons Galleria, Robinsons Antipolo, Summit Ridge Tagaytay and Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila.

This time, artist-mothers take centerstage in an exhibit organized by Valerie Teng and Mylene Quito.

“Artablado is the perfect venue to celebrate the diverse experiences and contributions of mothers through art… Artablado also plays a crucial role in artistic growth. It makes art accessible to the public and helps artists reach a wider audience, encouraging them to continue creating art,” they said. 

“Woman I Am” is a celebration of a woman’s strength in art. “It tackles a woman’s resilience and power through her artistic expressions amidst her multifaceted roles in society. Each artwork serves as a testament to her profound strength as she balances motherhood, professional endeavors and personal aspirations.”

Teng, Quito and 16 other women showcase their artistic prowess in the exhibit.

Teng said, “This all-women show is dedicated to moms and all participants are mothers with different backgrounds and professions—housewives, designers, full-time artists, lawyers.”

“They have different art styles and interpret their creativity in different ways,” added Quito, an artist, entrepreneur and mom of three, who held her solo exhibit art “Portraits and Patterns of Unconditional Love” in ARTablado Robinsons Galleria in 2022.

Another featured artist is RC Manrique-Santos, a visual artist and mom of three whose passion to paint was rekindled during the pandemic. She previously had a month-long solo exhibit at ARTablado Robinsons Galleria called “Spes in Cruce.”

Other artists who are part of the “Woman I Am” exhibit include Bing Famoso, a painter, portraitist, natural history illustrator, ceramicist, art educator, licensed teacher; Giselle Besana, who finds inspiration in women of all forms and the stories they have to tell; Isah Rodillo, who fell in love with pyrography and now works with acrylic paints; Marie Ann Paredes who does animation and digital art but calls painting her first true love; Maida Simbahan, whose daughter inspired her to pursue her passion for art; Heidi Pataueg-Fernando, a visual artist, art restorer and a former nurse; Shai Lirio, a self-taught artist who hopes to give people a feeling of optimism with her art; Rachel Barbosa Salva, a mother, wife, artist and lawyer; Gretchen Taruc, a self-taught artist from Pampanga; Z Cabangon, a mom of three and former embassy employee who started painting again during the pandemic; Rowena Maac, an artist who grew up in Masbate; Ann Gatdula, a special needs parent who hopes to spark hope in the hearts of others with her art; Tei Leonardo, a lawyer, up-and-coming post-modern visual artist, devoted wife to Erick and mother to RC; Jaymee Liz, a visual artist, certified art therapy life coach, events host and makeup and special effects prosthetics artist for film and television; and Catherine Ponteres De Guzman, who has worked in garment manufacturing and textile design and who enjoys hand-painting fabric, creating fashion accessories, and paintings on canvas.

Teng said, “Motherhood can influence an artist’s journey in so many ways. It connects us to our art through our emotions, sensitivity, empathy and a deeper understanding of human connections, making our art more relatable and authentic.”

“Woman I Am” runs at ARTablado Robinsons Galleria until May 15.

Diverse cultures, perspectives and artistic styles are showcased in the Art Show Philippines exhibit “Cultural Kaleidoscope,” running at ARTablado Robinsons Antipolo until April 30.

ARTablado and Art Show Philippines are united by their common goal: to promote Filipino art and help Filipino artists. The two have been partnering since 2022.

ARTablado, a portmanteau of the words “art” and “entablado” (stage), is the initiative of Robinsons Land which has been giving artists the space and support they need so they can showcase their work to a bigger audience since 2020. Art Show Philippines is an artist-run community that aims to empower Filipino artists and make it possible for them to exhibit their work globally. It started during the pandemic and now has a network of over 2,000 exhibiting artists of all levels from all over the Philippines.

Art Show Philippines also holds fundraising exhibits for children with cancer and with special needs, art mentoring sessions, mental health programs for creative people, and gives grants to artists in need of art materials.

Artists get a chance to grow in Art Show Philippines, just like Jay Vincent Gatdula, who now helps organize and lead exhibitions. “I am happy to be a part of Art Show Philippines. With their help, I discovered my art style Sining Sawali [weaving of two different paintings together to make a single art piece] and have given me many opportunities like participating in local and international exhibits to represent our country.”

For many years now, artists have been using the internet to showcase their work but physical exhibits are still essential both for artists and the audience. Art Show Philippines founder Frederick Epistola talked about their importance. “Physical exhibits like the one at ARTablado can be incredibly important for Filipino artists for several reasons. First, they provide a platform for local artists to showcase their work to the public, allowing them to reach a wider audience and gain recognition for their talents. These exhibits also offer opportunities for artists to network with other creators and industry professionals, fostering collaboration and growth within the local art community. Additionally, physical exhibits can help Filipino artists connect with buyers and collectors, potentially leading to sales and further opportunities for their artistic careers to thrive. Overall, these exhibitions play a valuable role in promoting Filipino art and artists both locally and globally.”

And that’s exactly what ARTablado does. The art stages, which can be found in Robinsons Galleria, Robinsons Antipolo, Summit Ridge Tagaytay and Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila, have given the spotlight to both up-and-coming talents and established artists, allowing people to enjoy their creations up close. 

Epistola added, “ARTablado, a gallery in malls and hotels, helps artists by increasing their visibility to a wider and more diverse audience, making art more accessible to the public, potentially boosting sales through impulse purchases, and fostering community engagement within the mall environment.”

This time, at ARTablado Robinsons Antipolo, mallgoers will get to enjoy “Cultural Kaleidoscope” which features the work of a new generation of Art Show Philippines artists, most of whom are exhibiting in ARTablado for the first time.

One of the first-timers said, “I’m participating in an exhibit organized and presented by ARTablado for the first time. I appreciate that Robinsons Land’s ARTablado provides a venue for artists, no matter their experience level, and a space to pursue their passion.”

Some of the art that can be viewed at “Cultural Kaleidoscope” are “Sampaguita Garland Maker” by Lei De Jesus, “Habing Katutubo” by Joanne Nidea, “Mga Laro” by Marjowyn Vito, “Baro’t Saya” by Cristel Ramos, and “Almusal” by Paula Santiago Clarito.

Epistola said, “Like a kaleidoscope that creates beautiful patterns through a combination of different colors and shapes, this exhibit may showcase a colorful array of artwork that celebrates various cultural influences and artistic expressions. It suggests a rich tapestry of creativity and diversity for visitors to explore and enjoy.”

The exhibiting artists are as diverse and colorful as their art. Here are just some of them: Gina Flores-Molina is a dentist-painter from Batangas with a passion for Impressionism. Nikolai M Flores is a software analyst at a bank who creates abstract art. Maria Cecilia Tacayon-Sarinas is a professional animator who has a newfound love for painting. Elise Capunitan is a visual artist and architect in the making. Solenart is an ex-OFW who considers art her safe space and emotional therapy. Pat Munar-Wigan is a wife and mom of two with a deep love for visual arts. Jobert U. Serrano, a son of a farmer and who grew up in a city at the foot of Mt. Banahaw, finds inspiration in nature and animals. Paola Santiago Clarito is a painter who has published two contemporary coloring books.                              

Why did they choose to exhibit at ARTablado? Epistola said, “Collaborating with Artablado can boost the credibility of emerging artists and assist in their establishment within the art community.”

The artists traveled from all over, with some coming from as far as Pangasinan, Zambales and Cavite, to attend the exhibit opening.

Epistola said, “I am incredibly proud of the new breed of artists of Art Show Philippines. Their innovative approaches, creativity, and fresh perspectives continue to inspire and drive us forward. Each artist brings a unique talent and passion for pushing boundaries and creating impactful art.”

Watercolor paintings are distinguishable by the brightness and luminosity of their hues. An artist with a deft yet light hand can coax layers of colors by taking the time to draw them out—one careful step at a time.

For all their innate breeziness, watercolors can be a challenge to create for beginners. The unpredictable nature of water and pigments, however, can lead to surprising and beautiful effects.

The Philippine Guild of Watercolorists (PGW) is a group established in 2016 whose aim is to enable its members to connect with the art community by showcasing their talent with watercolors. The guild currently has over 200 official members and 7.8 thousand followers on Facebook, and 27.6K reach on their page.

From April 16 to 30, the PWG is holding “Our Stories in Color,” a two-week exhibit of watercolors at ARTablado at Robinsons Galleria. Artworks to be featured include those created by some of its members as well as those by premier watercolor artists namely Erwin Mallari, Richard Romeo, JC Vargas, Dan Macapugay and Ton Ador.

Mallari has been painting watercolors for just over a decade but already has a catalog of realistic paintings honed by his years as a photographer. In 2012, he was a semi-finalist in the Metrobank Art & Design Excellency competition, and in 2014 he was awarded as one of the five grand prize winners of the Kulay sa Tubig watercolor competition.

An architect by profession, Romeo was one of five grand prize winners at Kulay sa Tubig in 2020 where his painting, “A National Treasure”, and “A Golden Hour in Basilan” in 2022, caught the eye of the jurors. Macapugay was also a grand prize winner at the same competition with his painting “Ina” that was based on a photo taken by a friend. He was drawn to the image because it reminded Macapugay of his grandmother.

Vargas is one who works quickly, as one does when working with watercolors. Earlier this year, he was one of the featured artists at a live watercolor painting session held in another mall. Ador bagged the grand prize at the first Sihag Cebu Watercolor competition held four years ago, and Metrobank Art and Design Excellence (MADE) in watermedia category in 2022.

The works of these five awarded artists will be showcased alongside pieces by 15 members of the PGW. Of the 37 members who submitted watercolor paintings on full sheets for consideration, theirs were the ones chosen by the jurors.

The ongoing ARTablado exhibit is noteworthy as it is only the first where all the pieces on display are watercolors. Visitors to the exhibit will find that the PGW is a home for watercolor artists where everyone is welcome no matter what their skill level may be.

The founding members headed by Karen Sioson have cemented PGW’s aim and the succeeding officers continue to stand strong by these: “We aim to build awareness, interest, and appreciation for the watercolor art and discover, hone, and support local talent through art-related 4Es: education, events, exposure, and experiences,” “One of our promises is to provide the network and platform for artistic exchange and collaboration.”

Education comes in the form of opportunities for its members to learn and master their craft via workshops, demos and other activities. Through events, live or digital, members will get to celebrate and express love for watercolors and the arts. Exposure will build awareness by promoting the exceptional talent of Filipino watercolorists through shows and other activities. Experiences in the form of plein air sessions and on-the-spot challenges will further challenge and improve the skills of its members.

There have only been a few juried exhibitions since PGW was established so “Our Stories in Watercolor” is one that is certainly worth viewing. The list of participating artists include Joseph Balderas, Aileen Barreiro, Aileen Cura, Dinna delos Reyes, Rigie Fernandez, Joanne Cariaso-Gacayan, Alice Atienza-Lee, Kyle Fortu-Legaspi, Judy Liuson, Sarah Liuson-Ongsun, Bids Llorin-Luna, Cher Cabula-Mendoza, Drake Pagulayan, Lorraine Panelo and Eduardo Solana Jr.

The jurors included John Cogley, president of Daniel Smith Artists Materials; Dino Pajao, an honorary member of PGW, a multi-awarded watercolor artist and one of the few Filipino members of the the Singapore Watercolor Society; and Iris Babao-Uy who is also an honorary member of PGW, one of the most sought after multi-media workshop instructors in Manila.

Joanne Cariaso-Gacayan, the current President of PGW, expressed, “We partnered with ARTablado for this exhibition because, in addition to their professionalism, we believe that with the gallery’s support, we can make watercolor painting more accessible to beginners and artists of all levels.”

Walk-ins and prospective buyers can look forward to a showcase of watercolor works not just by the members but by guest artists as well. Auxiliary activities include live painting sessions during the exhibit period to further show the public how members of the guild paint in various watercolor styles.

30 young artists from La Salle College of Antipolo showcase their work at ARTablado Robinsons Antipolo from April 3 to 15

Last year, senior high school students from La Salle College of Antipolo (LSCA) got the chance to exhibit their work in ARTablado at Robinsons Antipolo. The show, called “Kaleidscope,” was a great opportunity for the young artists to be able to bring their art to a wider audience.

“Last year’s exhibit was a tremendous success, and it owes much of its success to ARTablado. To me, Artablado is like a welcoming home that always keeps its doors open for young, budding artists,” said LSCA teacher Jade Arabelle A. Cabauatan.

That’s really what ARTablado is all about. This Robinsons Land initiative, launched in 2020, has been supporting Filipino artists by giving them a venue where they can put their prowess on display. ARTablado, which can be found in Robinsons Galleria and Robinsons Antipolo has featured both up-and-coming talents and established Filipino artists.

On April 3 to 15, another batch of Grade 12 students from LSCA will be showcasing their work in ARTablado Robinsons Antipolo in an exhibit called “Kaleidoscope 2: Mirrored Realities.”

Cabauatan said, “LSCA chose to keep the title ‘Kaleidoscope’ because it perfectly encapsulates the vibrant diversity and dynamic creativity thriving within our school’s art community. This title not only symbolizes the kaleidoscopic range of artistic expressions and perspectives showcased in the exhibit but also carries forward the legacy of last year’s students.”

She and fellow teacher John Paul Diciembre have been guiding the students through the entire process. “As educators in the Arts and Design, our primary objective is to provide students with real-world experiences in the industry. This encompasses everything from conceptualization to execution, culminating in the actual exhibition. Our students have invested considerable time and effort into brainstorming and crafting their pieces, with some starting their work months in advance in anticipation of this event,” Cabauatan said.

Thirty students from LSCA’s Arts and Design Strand and Special Program in the Arts—John Michael Carlos, Nicholas Cawicaan, Emman Cervantes, Adrian Dominguez, Brad Fernando, Aaron Legaspi, Victor Mojica, Josh Mondragon, Nathan Soriano, Gino Tolentino, Ben Zamora, Ayen Bonifacio, Sophia Bravo, Neyen Cinco, Rain Dungca, Aleksandra Escala, Daphne Jumawan, Raissa Liban, Ma. Franchesca Libio, Xiomara Ludovice, Kyleigh Christen Materum, Krystle Miguel, Lovely Pili, Maria Antoinette Querijero, Justine Saguid, Czarah Santos, Ma. Eliza Isabel Santos, Dana Tonogbanua, Chloe Wong, and Alegra Samson—will be participating in the exhibit.

“Having a chance to showcase my artworks in ARTablado is a great opportunity for a student like me to express my creativity in art and share it with others,” said student artist Sabel Santos.

Brad Fernando, another one of the students, shared, “As a young, evolving artist, ARTablado has opened a lot of doors for me to showcase what it means to be an artist.”

“Kaleidoscope 2: Mirrored Realities” is an invitation to a transformative journey that will allow viewers to navigate the labyrinth of mirrored realities, where truth and illusion intertwine, and the ordinary becomes extraordinary. Through different mediums, the exhibit captures the profound essence and inherent beauty of life itself, transforming experiences and emotions into tangible expressions of art. The students’ diverse perspectives on everyday life will be on display, creating moments for deep reflection, contemplation, understanding and connection.

The works will include paintings, digital art and even fashion design. The centerpiece of the exhibit: 27 artworks by 27 artists who will express their individuality through butterflies.

Diciembre said, “Partnering with ARTablado offers a unique opportunity to expose students to a broader audience and foster a deeper appreciation for art. It’s priceless and rewarding to see another batch of students have the chance to shine and share their art with a wider market, further enriching the school’s artistic legacy.”“Kaleidoscope 2: Mirrored Realities” will run from April 3 to 15 in ARTablado Robinsons Antipolo.

The term gathering point can mean several things but it always turns out to be something good. It’s a meeting place, a stomping ground or a hangout. For four friends who hail from Angono, one of the country’s top art capitals, it’s the title of their ongoing group show at ARTablado at Robinsons Galleria as well as a reunion and a chance for them to showcase their artistry to a wider audience. 

Jovito Andres, Edberth Roan, William Ner and Irwin Tolentino all grew up in the town of Angono, roughly 30 kilometers east of Manila. A small fishing village along Laguna de Bay in the province of Rizal, it has a laidback vibe that might have helped to cultivate dozens of artists and creatives.  

The four featured artists were mentored by Angono native and esteemed visual artist Nemi Miranda who is credited with the art style called Imaginative Figurism. Despite this, all four went on to develop their respective art styles. 

Jovito and Edberth were elementary school classmates and became fast friends because of their shared love for art.

“We met William at art club in high school and remained friends all the way to college where we took up Fine Arts at the University of Santo Tomas,” Jovito said. They later met Irwin at Angono Ateliers, the art group where they were all active members, he added.

“We had our own groups of friends but since we all were passionate about making art, we were able to form strong bonds with one another,” Jovito said. 

Time passed and William and Irwin moved to the United States while Edberth transferred and busied himself with other pursuits. Only Jovito remained in Angono where he honed a style of painting that hews to traditional Filipino values of family.

Using oil paints on canvas or wood panels, or pastels on paper, Jovito’s idealized depictions include a family unit complete with tatay, nanay and bunso as well as separate paintings of Mother and child, and even a Father and child. The latter features a father with his back turned to the viewer and carrying his young son who is clutching a “lato lato”—a popular noisemaker that was the toy craze earlier this year.

Edberth prefers working with charcoal or colored pencils to bring out the different tonal values of shadows and light on paper. Many of his drawings are of orchids, lily pads and water lilies seen from above, the plants’ surfaces dotted with beads of moisture. His koi series is an archetype invitation to explore the natural world with an elevated ecological consciousness. Edberth also works with mixed media using intricate metalwork, gilded fibers, and other unusual everyday objects to produce unique pieces.

Using oil paints on Masonite board or canvas, William creates realistic and surreal paintings that incorporate disparate elements like Lego bricks, a Pinocchio puppet, bunched-up fabric, and tiny storm clouds. 

“Excruciate” is a painful closeup of what viewers might assume to be Christ’s twisted feet on the cross. William expresses his truth with a powerful blend of surreal elements and bold, representational imagery that beckons viewers to take a closer look. 

The fourth featured artist, Irwin Tolentino, creates abstract expressionist pieces that consist of acrylic paints and ink on watercolor paper. He employs action-packed paint splashes, organic drizzles, vivid color smears, and other texture-altering techniques to bring his pieces to life. 

“Although the four of us seldom get together, our friendship is still there. In fact, we still manage to joke around with each other given the ease of communicating nowadays,” Jovito said. 

“Gathering Point” is a way for the four friends to touch base once again, this time at ARTablado, a setting that—for several years now—has been a staunch supporter of Philippine creativity.  The exhibit at ARTablado at Robinsons Galleria runs until November 30.