Philippines - An Art Affair to Remember

MANILA, Philippines — Under the shade of the trees still sprinkled with the lights of the previous holiday, was an affair to remember, that is, an affair with art. 


In Salcedo Park, on a lazy Saturday afternoon was a gathering of art lovers, admirers, collectors and anyone who has made art their mistress in one form or another, for the most awaited art event of the year.

Art in the Park has once again proven itself to be a most visually appetizing experience bringing together more than 40 art groups and artists for a fundraiser to benefit the Museum Foundation of the Philippines. A day of food, friends and fine arts, Art in the Park has consistently gained a steady following since it first began six years ago. Since then, more people have come not only from all over the country but also from other places specifically for the chance to take part of the festivities. Organizers Trickie Lopa and Lisa Periquet marked the larger crowd that attended, with even Singaporean nationals flying in just to immerse themselves in Philippine art.

The immaculate white tents were opened to the public at 2pm and under their safety were the most coveted artworks from the best that the country has to offer --- sculptures, paintings, frames, vinyl toys and many other trinkets, all of which represent the products of unique and talented individuals. Lope and Periquet calls to attention as well the neighboring art events, such as the Apartment 1b display of Brendale Tadeo’s work and Kim Atienza’s collection in Picasso Boutique nearby. The aroma of delicious cuisine floated through the air with food stalls tempting passersby with desserts, pizzas and other such delicacies. Wine and other drinks were also provided for, making it hard to find a reason to leave. Indeed people came and stayed and watched and enjoyed. From flocks of families to cliques of students, curious tourists to art groupies, painters to sculptors, potters to jewelry makers, writers to photographers, browsers to serious buyers, everyone found their own cozy little corner in Art in the Park. Flashes went around as in every corner there was a picturesque scene. In keeping up with the festive and high spirits of the people, there were many performances throughout the day. Aside from the acoustic notes making the mood even more joyful, there were also the distinctive performances such as Diwa De Leon on the hegalong. Leroy New, garnering fame with his installation pieces, one of which was worn by eccentric singer Lady Gaga for one of her singles, featured his works in a unique way. Using women as his canvas, he featured his wearable art as his models roamed the park dressed in his quirky and striking pieces, to the delight of both art critics and children.

“Every year is always an exciting year,” says participating artist Pete Jimenez. Exhibiting almost 50 of his pieces, his sculptures gathered around the small courtyard, as they are admired on their collapsible table pedestals. A combination of massive and intricate pieces decorated his area, the gray tones that dominated his work were an interesting contrast to the plants of the park that was set as his background. His favored piece, “Raise the Roof,” which was taken from his previous exhibit entitled, “Body Parts,” pertaining to the body parts of the Volkswagen Beatle, was the most eye-catching. Blending with the elements of the park, it provided itself as an arc over the greenery, which exemplifies how Art in the Park not only celebrates nature, but perhaps also enhances it.

Ral arrogante, another talented sculptor also exhibited his works on his own solo stall.  A staple in Art in the Park, he has been a participating artist for the past five years. However, the list of participants extends beyond solo artists, as majority includes art groups, art galleries, schools and collectives, many of them hailing from as far as Bohol, Cebu, Cagayan De Oro and the Mountain Provinces. The stall of the potters' group for example, includes potter Seigrid Bangyay from Sagada, bringing a fusion of her own personal form to the traditional practice of the North.

Galleries also provide a wonderful selection, putting out the works of their best artists at an affordable price in the name of charity. This is perhaps one of the biggest draws of Art in the Park; a percentage of the proceeds will go to the operations of the National Museum and other avenues to promote cultural awareness. However no piece can be sold for more than P30,000.00 in order to entice people to purchase more works. As celebrated artist Gus Albor said, “It brings art to the masses, it gives people a chance to own art.” His works were exhibited in the stall of Art Informal, which was promoting art on paper.

All in all exhibiting artists include Sheerjoy, Art WEnesday, Nineven Art space, DEATI School of Fine Arts, TutoK, Metro Gallery, TUP fine arts, Galerie Astra,Avellana Art Gallery, Neo0Angono Artists Collective, Mighty Bhutens, Galeria de las islas, Aimless, Kulay Art Group, PWU School of Fine Arts and Design, Gallery Orange, Secret Fres, Delirium [Design + art ], Ortigas Foundation Library, Espasyo Siningdikato, Studio 1616, Alternative Contemporary Art Studio, Tara Soriano, Resurrection Furniture and Found Objects Gallery, Ang I.n.K, silverlens Gallery, CANVAS, L’Arc en Ciel, Blanc, Acid House, Tin-Aw Art Gallery, UP Artists Circle Alumni, Boston Art Gallery, Art Informal, Art Verite, Gallery Frames, Vinyl on Vinyl =, Parokyano ng Malabon, Amarela, Charlie Co, Dei Jardiniano and Urban Sketchers Philippines.

Lasting all the way until 12 midnight, Art in the Park fulfilled the weekend dreams of art junkies, and provided a wonderfully new experience for innocent newcomers. While the day has passed, many will excitedly wait for the next time Art in the Park is in the neighborhood.

HANNAH JO UY

mb.com.ph

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