In February 20, 2019 — Following its
successful turnout last year, Ortigas & Company launched the 10-day Ortigas
Art Festival to assert their commitment to bringing arts and culture closer to
the people.
Now
on its second year, the exhibit continues to put its efforts towards
establishing Estancia as the art hub of Ortigas. This year’s approach brought
individual artists to the spotlight, showcasing their creative individuality
and placing them at the forefront of the art scene.
It
was the idea of Renato Habulan,
renowned social realist painter, to tap the various groups of artists from all
over the country and give them a venue to exhibit their works. Ortigas Malls
was receptive to the idea of promoting grassroots participation in the art
scene. No gallery representation – just artists working together; no admission
charge for the viewers – walk through the art for free.
"Ortigas
& Company is delighted to see that support for contemporary Philippine art
has been growing. As part of our commitment to the arts, we are holding the
second run of this art festival in the hope that this will increase
appreciation for the creative individuality of artists. By holding this in
Estancia, we are also making art accessible to Filipinos, especially for our
mall patrons and the Capitol Commons community,” concluded Arch. Renee Bacani,
VP of Ortigas & Company.
To
create a more interactive and immersive art experience, various activities have
also been lined up, which visitors can join for free. On February 23, master
engraver Benjamin Cabrera shows his prowess in print-making. For those
interested in watercolors, watercolor artist Peter Sutcliffe held tutorials on
February 24 and March 2. On March 3, Renato Habulan introduced guests to Print
Alla Prima with the Master. Throughout the festival, the public is also
encouraged to participate through the “Comment Areas” where they can share
their thoughts and opinions to let the artists know how their works are
perceived.
Among
the featured artists is master engraver Benjie
Torrado Cabrera, the only engraver in the country specializing in this
laborious, centuries-old medium. His works, which are complex in detail, are
inspired by his interest in cosmology, with geometric shapes and spheres that
signify the universe.
Another
one to look out for is Darwin “Japat”
Guevarra, a self-taught artist
inspired by the works of masters and his peers, showcases works that reflect
his concepts of life and social realism, expressed through his mastery of the
paintbrush, sculpting, photography, and experimenting with scrap and molded
materials.
Also
in the spotlight is photographer Bern
Wong, with her camera that has captured the most moving meditative and
breathtaking landscapes she has seen encountered in her travels. Her works
express the minimal, abstract, and even the surreal aspects of places she
visits.
Make
sure to check out the works of Richard
Buxani, an architect who has since harnessed his talent to create
sculptures made out of metal. Inspired by Ronald Castrillo, Richard
For
updates and more information on the Ortigas Art Festival, connect through its
Instagram and Facebook page and use the hashtag #OrtigasArtFestival.
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