Forty art galleries showcased the work of local and foreign artists at the annual Art Fair Philippines held last February 15 to 19 at The Link Carpark in Makati. What started out as a modest exhibition in 2013 has now become one of the landmark events for art enthusiasts every year. Even though we only managed to catch the last day of the fair, the venue–occupying three floors along with the roof deck–was still packed. Outside, the queue went all around the building until right before the event ended at 9PM. Despite the large crowd and having to dodge a lot of selfie-takers posing in front of the artwork on display, we managed to squeeze our way through the venue and take in “the best in contemporary Philippine art”.
Here are some of our favorite artworks from the fair:
1. These ceramics from Mark Valenzuela’s “New Folk Heroes” collection:
2. This dual work (oil on canvas/sculpture) entitled “Orphan” by Renato Borja Jr.:
3. This fun collage (mixed media on canvas) called “Rolly the Curly in Board Shorts” by Richard Quebral:
4. This amazing piece called “Space Between” created by Raffy Napay that used thread, textile cloth, and acrylic on canvas:
Here’s a closer look at “Space Between”:
5. This work by Gregory Halili on a giant clam entitled “Echo 2”:
6. This glass and lights work by Gabriel Lichauco called “Astro Bling” made of stained glass, metal, and light fixtures:
7. This mixed media sculpture by foreign artist Kiriku entitled “Skull of Flower”:
8. This inventive piece entitled “Goodbyes” by Lara de los Reyes that used hair as thread on satin:
Detail from “Goodbyes”:
9. This wonderful found objects installation by Alwin Reamillo called “Matchbox Works”:
10. This sculpture made from carved wood, polychrome, and Mactan coralstone created by Riel Hilario titled “Solace in a Sea of Clouds”:
