“It is good to love many things, for therein lies the true strength, and whosoever loves much performs much, and can accomplish much, and what is done in love is well done.” ― Vincent van Gogh
On the 3rd of March 2016, We, the Art TAP members organized a meet-up in an annual event called Art in the Park held at Jaime Velasquez Park in Makati. Now in its 10th year, it was organized by Miss Trickie Lopa of Philippine Art Events, Inc. for the benefit of the Museum Foundation of the Philippines in its mission to create awareness for the National Museum and its network. They gathered together a diverse group of galleries, art schools, independent art spaces, and collectives. I would never have imagined that such occasion will be flooded by artists, art collectors, and art enthusiasts alike. We usually see these artworks in galleries enclosed in walls, but to have them view in a different setting and under a natural light is quite innovating.
First, we met with Mr. Tony Herbosa, the founder of Traders Apprentice Pilipinas (TAP) who's generous enough to show us around and introduce us to some of his colleagues for a bit of lesson in ''art appreciation'' though I prefer to call it ''art enlightenment'' for such creations involves profound understanding to be truly appreciated.
We also got acquainted with Mr. Cecilio Tobillio of Cervio Art Haus and he gave us insights about various artists making their way into the limelight and I can't helped but asked what are certain factors that makes an artist's work increase its value and he pointed out that recognition and awards boosts not just their career but also their pieces' worth. The law of supply and demand also comes into play especially if a particular ''master'' is well-known and much sought-after.
Next, we were introduced with Mr. Manny de Castro of Underground Gallery and Mr. JJ Atencio of 8990 Holdings who gave excellent tips and tricks when choosing artworks where it all boils down to the fundamental - ''Choose a piece that communicates with you and when you find the connection, get it''. I couldn't agree with them more.
You see, most people view art as an investment, yet he pointed out that we should look at it both ways. Whether its monetary value remains static nevertheless, as long as you have fulfillment with what you acquired, there is no greater feeling. Like what Mr. Tony Herbosa said ''It's like hitting the jackpot!''.
Some of the figures on display are Bulul or ''rice god'' which the people of Ifugao are highly known for. Authentic Bulul actually serves as a representation of the ancestor, carved from Narra (pterocarpus indicus) wood and are usually made in pairs (male and female). Created mainly as guardians of the granary, its making includes certain rituals by a Mumbaki (priest) from the selection of wood, sanctification with a pig's blood, up until the giving of offerings.
I greatly admire the details and complexity of these figurines and how painstaking it must be to create one. Mind you, some of them are no bigger than my thumb.
This one is from the The Mighty Bhutens Gallery and was made by an artist from Baguio City where he uses tiles as medium.
This one is on display at the Art Informal Gallery and I overheard that it's from a ''Handkerchief Series''.
These portraits are from Mendez Big and Small Art. Co. and how I love the artist's meticulous means and strict attention to minute details. I remembered staring at them while at the same time arguing with myself whether they're photos or not. I was captivated by how lifelike their eyes are and find these pieces to be exceptionally remarkable.
Here are some of the artworks that caught my fascination.
As I hop from one gallery to another, I can't help but ponder on why I am entice only to certain art pieces and disregard the rest no matter how long a gaze at them, but has its appeal to others. Is the influence akin to looking at a delicious food, an attractive person, or a red Ferrari?
Perhaps art is beyond what the eyes can perceive and it isn't just the piece communicating, but the artists themselves through their work. Like what I always say ''an artwork is a conduit''. I may not be able to take an artwork with me, yet I acquired something I consider priceless - personal and interpersonal growth.
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