Summary
Highlights
The Art Fair Philippines, held in a car park in Makati, aims to make art more accessible to the public. It features works by top Filipino artists, many of whom are well-known internationally. The organizers, Tricky Lopa and Lisa Periquet, wanted to create an alternative, contemporary space for art.
A central piece at the fair is Gabby Barredo's kinetic art installation, 'Asphalt'. Barredo, known for art using mechanisms, spent 10 months creating this work. His art delves into dark themes, portraying repeating historical cycles and societal issues that are often overlooked, serving as a reminder of past mistakes.
The fair showcases a stunning array of artworks, including pieces by internationally recognized Filipino artists like Ronald Ventura, whose 'bulul' (rice gods) reflect modern times. Winner Jumalon's mysterious works are popular in Asian auction houses, while Geraldine Javier uses taxidermy-like techniques to convey meaning. Cristina Quisumbing Ramilo's art critiques religion, highlighting the Filipino artistic spirit of expressing complex ideas through unconventional combinations.
Renowned painter Romeo Lee offers a critical perspective on the current state of Filipino art, lamenting that much of it focuses on commercialism and lacks depth or 'soul'. He believes that the focus on auctions has led to a decline in genuine artistic expression, although he acknowledges the inherent creativity and talent of Filipino artists.
The Art Fair Philippines runs until Sunday, February 23. Public art installations, like some of Ronald Ventura's 'bulol', are scattered around Makati and will be on display until February 28. There is a 100-peso entrance fee for the main exhibit at The Link in Makati, near the Glorietta area.