MANILA, Philippines – Art is an elusive term associated with many definitions. It is often associated as being creative, radical or free-spirited. Most of us are familiar with the colloquial definition, “art is the freedom of expression” which encourages anyone to create outputs based on any message we’d like to deliver to the public. Whether emotional, political or satirical, it is a medium of being able to convey with an impact.
At one point in our lives, we have dabbled with art without consciously knowing it. Some of us may have been snipping away to achieve kirigami, the art of cutting patterns into folded sheets of paper to reveal a silhouette, in frustration of turning white bond paper into snowflakes. The destination of one of your elementary class field trips might have been in the timeless, Museo Pambata, where you had your fill of trying out all the fun contraptions. You may even have gushed in awestruck upon setting eyes on the majestic, Baroque style architecture of Saints Peter and Paul Parish Churches when your family visited Pangasinan.
On a historical note, Filipino visual art is inducing with techniques and tricks imbedded by our rich, divergent culture. Some of these occasions took place during the Spanish era, where Filipino painters skillfully created well thought out masterpieces of dimensional paintings. More often than not, their great works of art would comprise of painted saints or religious scenes for friars to put on display at churches. Sculptors would devise intricate carvings on church doors or from facades made out of volcanic rock, coral stone or adobe. Their designs often took form in shapely floral, leafy and religious patterns. From churches, to buildings and paintings to sculptures, many of our country’s sought out attractions feature their artistic craft- deeply admired by locals and tourists alike.
Fast forward today, the emergence of young artists has taken over the local scene. The expansive means of learning various skills to hone one’s artistic prowess has opened an opportunity for artists to grasp and develop their talents. Moreover, with the open-mindedness a portion of the receiving public, a handful of art installations, exhibits and bazaars are being celebrated. Artists have become more practical in creating their outputs, bearing in mind that art can now be a bit more than a painting that you can hang in your house. A duo thought of creating witty, extraordinary quotes and designs which they silkscreen on tote bags made out of “katcha”, an attention-grabbing statement for your next outfit at least. Another example is a communal group of artists painting the town with their colorful graffiti, and on the side, they sell limited edition calendars, quirky keychains and they will soon be releasing “pantotes” a play on word for their upcoming tote bag collection with different pantone colors. Another group is focused on recycling old comic books by turning them into statement wallets and pouches sewn together, creating a fun experience for its users since they can read parts of the comics while waiting in line to pay for bills or when commuting. Indeed, we can say that art has evolved into a more meaningful experience for this generation to enjoy.
One can simply explore a delectable experience through various mediums of art without going far. Metro Manila hosts numerous museums that offer reasonably priced tours, and some art exhibitions gather the most expansive art installations that can visually enlighten anyone, like the recent Art Fair Philippines 2015 held last February at the Link Carpark in Makati. Art bazaars are now prominently conducted in outdoor parks, malls and open spaces- openly inviting enthusiasts, mall shoppers and any passersby. Anyone can learn calligraphy, painting, silkscreen painting and more through Pinterest. Learning the basics of various art techniques can now be achieved through easy “how to” YouTube tutorial videos, all you will need are the proper set of materials. Some may want to learn with a teacher to guide them, and would opt to sign up for hands on workshops offered by various institutions such as Ayala Museum, Sparkle Lab, Faber Castell and U.P.’s Fine Arts Department. These institutions offer workshops from pottery making to the basics of animation, it can definitely cater to each person’s interest.
Recently, a premiere real estate developer Empire East Land Holdings, Inc. innovatively transformed one of their newest luxury projects in San Juan into an aesthetically landscaped garden that is open to every person who loves art. The Mango Tree Residences is actually a master-planned residential development that would soon give rise to two towers with spacious suites available to satisfy anyone’s desire for an upscale, tranquil lifestyle.
But this time, instead of placing a showroom, Empire East developed it into a majestic, lush garden sprawling with greens and naturally grown mango trees. The garden glows with an old world charm, inspired by one of the roots of Italian Renaissance of Florence, Italy. Neighboring residents, or anyone passing by the area never fail to stop and wander inside the refreshing change of scenery, while admiring its carefully thought of design, and relaxing with the cool breeze rustling the mango tree leaves.
This type of setting is the kind that would inspire artists and art-lovers alike into crafting their next masterpiece. Empire East and Mango Tree Residences will be holding an arts fair titled, “ART FEST: Unleash your skills in art and life!” this Saturday, June 6, 2015 from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM at the Mango Tree Residences garden along M. Paterno St. corner Ledesma St. in San Juan City. There will be an open house event, an art bazaar featuring independent artists, food trucks and FREE art workshops on basic sketching, watercolor painting and cartoon drawing! Independent artists, parents and their kids can come around with their own art materials anytime to enjoy a fusion of art and life. For details call 810-0396 or 0917-8367473, LIKE US on Facebook at facebook.com/empireeastofficial.POPADVT