FilipinART Exhibit Artists: Anne Labesores, Eve Florida, Domiel Mercado, Grace Maribojoc, Criselda de Leon Nañola and Jaymee Liz Borja. (Not in picture: Khrisna Nañola)
FilipinART Exhibit Shines the Spotlight on Women’s Creativity at Crimson Hotel
In celebration of Women’s Month, Crimson Hotel Filinvest City and South Arts Festival proudly present FilipinART, an inspiring art exhibit showcasing the artistry and creative spirit of Filipina artists. Running from February 26 to March 19 at the Crimson Hotel Filinvest City Gallery, the exhibit brings together a diverse collection of works that embody inspiration, power, and unwavering passion.
The exhibit officially opened with a vibrant reception on February 26, where art enthusiasts, collectors, and supporters of local talent gathered to celebrate the featured artists: Criselda De Leon Nañola, Khrisna Nañola, Domiel Mercado, Anne Labesores, Grace Maribojoc, Eve Florida, and Jaymee Liz Borja. Each artist’s work reflects a unique perspective, offering a dynamic blend of colors, emotions, and stories that pay tribute to the strength and creativity of women.
Whether you're an art lover or simply looking to immerse yourself in a space filled with inspiration, FilipinART is a must-see. The exhibit remains open until March 19, inviting guests to witness the powerful expressions of Filipina artistry.
For those who can’t visit in person, an online catalog featuring the exhibited works is available here: FilipinART Exhibit 2025 Catalog. The exhibit photo gallery can be viewed here: FilipinART Exhibit 2025 Photo Gallery.
For more details, visit Crimson Hotel Filinvest City or follow South Arts Festival for updates on this and other creative events.
South Arts Festival Artists Collaborate On Group Show With (Re)Union At Altro Mondo Creative Space
(Re)Union 04.27-05.25.2024
(Re)Union is where artistic diversity meets collaborative evolution. Through the unique perspectives of JJ Duque, Piaget Martelino, Alfonso Recto, and Rachel Le Roux, (Re)Union offers a dynamic exploration of personal vision and collective growth.
At the heart of the exhibition lies JJ Duque's journey of resilience and self-discovery. His abstract drawings, once discouraged by galleries, now stand as a testament to his unwavering commitment to artistic integrity. Incorporating his signature doodle style into larger works, JJ challenges conventions and invites viewers to explore the simplicity and complexity of his creative process.
Piaget Martelino's transition from painting to pen and ink marked a pivotal moment in his artistic journey. His pieces for (Re)Union reflect a fusion of distinctive styles, blending fluidity with richness to evoke joy and amusement. Through playful experimentation, Piaget brings viewers to revel in vibrance.
Alfonso Recto shares a raw and gestural energy, infusing his works with spontaneity and depth. His abstraction mirrors the playful yet deliberate approach shared by the group, offering viewers a glimpse into his evolving artistic expression.
Rachel Le Roux's figurative style adds a unique dimension to (Re)Union, imbuing the exhibition with feminine energy. Delving deep into the essence of womanhood, Rachel's artworks invite contemplation and empathy. Through fearless exploration of new techniques, she pushes the boundaries of her signature style, creating a space for reflection and dialogue.
The artworks in (Re)Union ignite conversations on innovation, introspection, and the multifaceted nature of art. Whether it's JJ's intricate doodles prompting closer inspection or Rachel's evocative portrayals, each piece captivates viewers on a personal and profound level.
For JJ, Piaget, Alfonso, and Rachel, this exhibition represents a reunion of kindred spirits, brought together by their shared passion for art. (Re)Union offers a space for collaboration, growth, and mutual support, reminding us of the enduring bonds that unite us as artists and friends.
Text and exhibit curation by Ayni Nuyda.
SOUTH ARTS FESTIVAL PARTNERS WITH ZONTA ALABANG FOR ZONTA CHRISTMAS CARNIVALE BAZAAR
Zonta Alabang and South Arts Festival have partnered for the upcoming Zonta Christmas Carnivale Bazaar to be held from November 23 & 24, 2024 at The Filinvest Tent in Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City. South Arts Festival will be tapping its community of aspiring and veteran artists to hold a special exhibit at the lobby of The Filinvest Tent. The artists featured in this unique exhibit of paintings, artworks and one-of-a-kind crafts and accessories include: Jaque Borges, Criselda De Leon, JJ Duque, Paul Hilario, Anne Labesores, Roy Tabiolo Legaspi, Mala Lim, Mary Grace Maribojoc, Norlie Meimban, Domiel Mercado, Dx Mercado, Anthony Nañola, Khrisna Nañola-Marcos, Jinky Rayo, Thycoffery and Nikki Vasallo.
The catalog of artworks can be viewed here. For inquiries, kindly send us an email at southartsfestival@gmail.com.
MAX EIGENMANN VISITS CORSO COMO 88 FOR A JJ DUQUE LIMITED EDITION SCARF
2023 Gawad Urian Best Actress Max Eigenmann for the film 12 Weeks, set foot at the Corso Como 88 boutique store in One Ayala, Makati, with the sole intention of grabbing one of the limited edition scarves of artist JJ Duque to wear during the 22nd Mindanao Festival and 2nd Palm City Film Festival in Davao City.
Eigenmann, who also recently won Best Performance by an Actress in the 13th Asia Pacific Screen Awards in Brisbane, Australia for her role in the movie Verdict, was invited to be a member of the jury in the 22nd Mindanao Film Festival. With careful planning of her outfit for the event, Max Eigenmann reached out to JJ Duque and raised her intention of wanting one of the limited edition scarves only available at Corso Como 88.
Corso Como 88 had invited contemporary artist JJ Duque to turn his intricate artwork into fashion pieces with the concept of creating a unique “wearable art” design. Their first project was a limited edition scarf using two of Duque’s works as the inspiration.
“There are only 20 silk scarves available per design, which gives it its rarity,” explained Corso Como 88 owner Imelda Menguito. “The uniqueness of JJ’s artwork combined with the highest quality silk makes the scarf a luxury item. The scarf is just the first step. We will be introducing JJ’s art into other fashion pieces in the future,” she adds.
Max Eigenmann shared the same enthusiasm when she first saw the scarf. “I couldn’t make it to the opening reception when they launched the scarf, but I saw the photos and reached out to JJ that I wanted one, so he accompanied me to Corso Como 88,” Eigenmann shared.
Eigenmann also confessed that Duque is a good friend, having known him since childhood. “He’s good friends with my brother Timmy and my cousins Ryan and Geoff, and I’ve known him for nearly 30 years,” she explained. “I’m a big fan of his art and have one of his earlier works, and I’ve seen his growth and now that his art came out in fashion - I just had to have one,” she beamed.
During the visit, Eigenmann was game enough to show the versatility of the scarf and the many ways it could be worn and used.
Duque, meanwhile, welcomed the opportunity for someone with the star power of Eigenmann to wear his art. “She’s a long-time friend, and I’ve also seen how much she’s developed as an actress, and I’m proud of what she’s achieved,” Duque said. “I”m thankful that she’ll take the scarf with her during those glamorous events. Maybe it’ll even steal the spotlight on the red carpet in Cannes,” he joked.
Corso Como 88 is located at the third level of One Ayala in Makati.
Pop of Pink Artists (L to R) Mai Rodriguez, Rica Dueñas, JJ Duque, Alfonso Recto (behind), Michi Calica, Marilen Faustino-Montenegro, Hazel Imperial-Tan
POP OF PINK ART EXHIBIT ON ANOTHER RUN
Crimson Hotel Filinvest City in partnership with South Arts Festival brings its annual Pop of Pink Art Exhibit from October 2 to October 25, 2024 at The Gallery, Crimson Hotel Filinvest City. This will be the 7th time that South Arts Fetival and Crimson Hotel Filinvest City will partner in order to promote breast cancer awareness during the breast cancer awareness month of October. Art that will be sold at the exhibit will benefit the projects and programs of Stage Zero Foundation by Project Pink, who has also been the sole beneficiary since the exhibit began several years ago. Now, The Pop of Pink art exhibit is an annual event that celebrates strength, hope and resilience.
Several artists have participated in this event over the years. In this October 2024 edition - the featured artists include Anna Maniego, Marilen Faustino-Montenegro, Michi Calica, Hazel Imperial Tan, Rica Dueñas, JJ Duque and Alfonso Recto.
Pop of Pink Art Exhibit Catalog.
For inquiries, kindly send us an email at southartsfestival@gmail.com.
CRIMSON HOTEL LAUNCHES COLOR PARADE EXHIBIT TO CELEBRATE PRIDE MONTH
Crimson Hotel Filinvest City in partnership with South Arts Festival recently launched Color Parade, an art exhibit that featured artists who are members and allies of the LGBTQA+ community in celebration of Pride Month this June 2024. The ehxibit opened on June 12 and will continue to run until July 7, 2024. The colorful art exhibits marks the third time that Crimson Hotel and South Arts Festival have come together to celebrate Pride Month and honor this community and their civil rights.
Apart from the exhibit, Crimson Hotel also has some perks throughout the month in celebration of Pride Month. There will be drag comedy shows plus a lot of other offerings for staycation and dining packages. Colorful rainbow treats and special cocktails will also be highlighted.
Among the artists participating in the Color Parade exhibit include Millet Sacerdoti, Kate Tinamisan, Red "Pula" Pates, Tates Estrella Cannon, Alvie Gaudino and Bea Viado. Millet Sacerdoti, who leads the GS Art Studio Tagaytay and is a member of the United Women Artists Association of the Philippines (UWAAP) is a proud ally of the LGBTQA+ community as she supports family members who are part of the community.
South Arts Festival organizer JJ Duque curated the exhibit once again.
"I've been partnering with Crimson Hotel Filinvest for many years. Our partnership has brought exhibits to celebrate Women's Month, Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Pride Month each year. I appreciate the opportunity to be able to address and support these diverse issues through the expression of art, and I am thankful for the artists who participate in this exhibits," Duque explained.
To view the photo gallery and the art catalog from the exhibit, please click the appropriate links below.
South Arts Festival: A Celebration of The Arts
The South Arts Festival recently wrapped up its 7th edition (sans the pandemic year of 2020) this May 11 & 12, 2024 at The Filinvest Tent, Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City. The two-day art festival celebrated various forms of the arts in its return to The Filinvest Tent. The honorable Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon dropped by the opening and went around with South Arts Festival big boss JJ Duque to visit each booth to welcome the artists and get a first look on the art fair's artistic offerings.
[View the welcome message of Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon by clicking here]
The art fair brought about hundreds of artists from all over the country to share their colorful and creative expressions through paintings, sculptures, drawings, jewelry, crafts, accessories and so much more. Some of the top contemporary artists of the country that took part were the likes of GSIS National Museum Art Competition multi-champion Sam Penaso, the father of miniature paintings Nelson Castillo, prominent contemporary artists Norlie Meimban, Janddie Castillo, Fitz Herrera, Michael Pastorizo, Marlon Magbanua, Ombok Villamor, JJ Duque and Binong Javier, top sculptors like Meroy Castrillo, Marlon Luceñara and Richard Buxani, talented female painters like Nicole Asares, Raeche, Millet Sacerdoti, Rachel Le Roux and Valerie Teng just to name a few. Art groups representing various parts of the country made their presence felt, such as Bastedor Art Project, Blackbox PH, The Cebu Artists' Collective, Bohol-Buhol, Benguet-based Pugad ni Art Studio, Piskay Art Group from Tagbilaran City, GS Art Studio Tagaytay and Hubog Sining from Cainta, Rizal. Of course, art galleries also shared the stage with the likes of Quadro Art Gallery, Nami Art Gallery, Fifty-One Collective Art-Haus and Obra Galleria there to represent. There was even a traditional mambabatok tattoo artist from Kalinga named Den Wigan, who shared his skills on those who wanted some new skin art.
Various arts were also promoted to compliment the art fair; such as a Filipiniana cultural dance performance by the Muntinlupa Yaman ng Kalinangan Dance Company; a panel discussion on poetry that also featured spoken word performances by LKN, Indigo Pai, Abet Umil, Hannah Pabilonia and Serge Sandigan; with the art of music given some expression through DJs Herbie Walton and John Wink.
Another important activity during South Arts Festival was the collaborative painting initiative of Search Mindscape Foundation to benefit ACAP (Action for the Care and Development of the Poor in the Philippines). Children of the ACAP program were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime experience as they were able to paint alongside some of the country's more prestigious painters. The kids were mentored, tutored and allowed to express themselves with the veteran pro artists adding a touch of their creativity to the works as well. At one point, several artists combined to add their little bit of expression to a unique collaborative piece. The art works created will soon be auctioned with the proceeds to benefit ACAP.
South Arts Festival would like to thank Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon, Muntinlupa City Tourism, Culture and The Arts Department, Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Explore Muntinlupa, Bagwings, Cityneon Philippines, RG Events, Filinvest Lifestyle Malls, Filinvest Land inc., Alveo and The Filinvest Tent. Thanks to all the participating artists, guests and supporters.
South Arts Festival Artists Collaborate On Group Show With (Re)Union At Altro Mondo Creative Space
(Re)Union 04.27-05.25.2024
(Re)Union is where artistic diversity meets collaborative evolution. Through the unique perspectives of JJ Duque, Piaget Martelino, Alfonso Recto, and Rachel Le Roux, (Re)Union offers a dynamic exploration of personal vision and collective growth.
At the heart of the exhibition lies JJ Duque's journey of resilience and self-discovery. His abstract drawings, once discouraged by galleries, now stand as a testament to his unwavering commitment to artistic integrity. Incorporating his signature doodle style into larger works, JJ challenges conventions and invites viewers to explore the simplicity and complexity of his creative process.
Piaget Martelino's transition from painting to pen and ink marked a pivotal moment in his artistic journey. His pieces for (Re)Union reflect a fusion of distinctive styles, blending fluidity with richness to evoke joy and amusement. Through playful experimentation, Piaget brings viewers to revel in vibrance.
Alfonso Recto shares a raw and gestural energy, infusing his works with spontaneity and depth. His abstraction mirrors the playful yet deliberate approach shared by the group, offering viewers a glimpse into his evolving artistic expression.
Rachel Le Roux's figurative style adds a unique dimension to (Re)Union, imbuing the exhibition with feminine energy. Delving deep into the essence of womanhood, Rachel's artworks invite contemplation and empathy. Through fearless exploration of new techniques, she pushes the boundaries of her signature style, creating a space for reflection and dialogue.
The artworks in (Re)Union ignite conversations on innovation, introspection, and the multifaceted nature of art. Whether it's JJ's intricate doodles prompting closer inspection or Rachel's evocative portrayals, each piece captivates viewers on a personal and profound level.
For JJ, Piaget, Alfonso, and Rachel, this exhibition represents a reunion of kindred spirits, brought together by their shared passion for art. (Re)Union offers a space for collaboration, growth, and mutual support, reminding us of the enduring bonds that unite us as artists and friends.
Text and exhibit curation by Ayni Nuyda.
JJ Duque Opens Second Solo Show With (R)Evolution At Altro Mondo Creative Space
(R)Evolution 04.27-05.25.2024
In (R)Evolution, JJ Duque invites us into a realm where the simplicity of circles intersects with the complexity of personal growth. Almost a decade since his last solo exhibition, Duque's journey from detailed abstract drawings to the liberated expressions found in this collection signifies not just an artistic evolution, but a profound personal transformation.
Reflecting on his debut exhibition in 2016, "Patience: An Adventure of Pens & Pencils," one witnesses the dedication woven into each stroke. Duque's commitment to his craft was undeniable, earning recognition and commissions from eager collectors. Yet, amid this success, a yearning for creative freedom simmered beneath the surface.
His recent works emphasize light, shadow, and texture, departing from previous structured techniques. These pieces create immersive worlds on canvas, demonstrating a shift towards spontaneity while maintaining intentional execution.
(R)Evolution embodies the introspect to break free from the constraints of self-doubt and embrace the boundless possibilities of artistic expression. Duque's works exude unbridled creativity, inviting viewers into a world where imagination takes precedence.
Text and exhibit curation by Ayni Nuyda.
The featured women artists of the FilipinART Exhibit at Crimson Hotel Filinvest City pose with South Arts Festival boss JJ Duque.
(L-R) Vanessa Viterbo, Domiel Mercado, Precy De Guzman Brady, JJ Duque, Patricia Collantes, Rachel Le Roux, Maricris Castillo.
Crimson Hotel Filinvest City in cooperation with South Arts Festival recently held an artists' reception for the FilipinART Exhibit at The Gallery of the hotel. The exhibit, which features all women artists, is part of the hotel's celebration of the International Women's Month of March.
The artists featured include established names like Valen Valero, Rachel Le Roux, Domiel Mercado, Precy de Guzman-Brady, Patricia Collantes and Maricris Castillo while also joined by emerging talent like Vanessa Viterbo.
The exhibit runs from March 6 until March 23, and proceeds from the sale of the art works will be used to provide hygiene kits for the female inmates incarcerated at the Parañaque City Jail through the assistance of the Parañaque City Parole and Probation Office. The exhibited was curated and organized by South Arts Festival's JJ Duque with the full support of Crimson Hotel Filinvest City.
Click on
FilipinART Exhibit 2024 Gallery for more photos of the reception.
and
FilipinART 2024 Catalog for the listed artworks.
For any inquiries about the art works or if you wish to donate to the cause, you may email southartsfestival@gmail.com.
ART CONNECTS
South Arts Festival had the chance to join other artists and contemporaries at the Art Connects program organized and hosted by the Museo ng Muntinlupa and The City of Muntinlupa Tourism, Culture and the Arts Department (Explore Muntinlupa). It was nice to learn about the upcoming art events and activities being planned by the Museo ng Muntinlupa as well as to be inspired by the life of artist Maestro Rogelio Orobia. It was also good to feel the support and presence of the Vice Mayor, Hon. Artemio Simundac, Councilor Arlene Hilapo, and Councilor Jedi Presnedi. The event happened last Friday February 23 at the Museo ng Muntinlupa events hall.
Art Connects is in line with the celebration of National Arts Month 2024 with the theme “Ani ng Sining, Bayang Malikhain”. Through this gathering, the museum aims to strengthen its connections with Muntinlupeño artists & galleries and serve as a platform for their visions and artworks.
South Arts Festival organizer JJ Duque was a guest speaker, there to talk about the growth of South Arts Festival from an event to a community of artists that regularly have exhibits and art-related events to support artists and other communities.
For the women's month of March, South Arts Festival will be hosting an all women art exhibit with Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Manila. This exhibit runs from March 6 to 23. Then, this coming May 11 & 12, will be the big two-day South Arts Festival at The Filinvest Tent. A few slots remain for the South Arts Festival as they will be closing reservations on March 8.
South Arts Festival & Crimson Hotel Filinvest City Launch Pop Of Pink Art & Fashion Exhibit To Benefit Stage Zero Foundation by Project Pink
It's the 5th year in a row (except for the pandemic year) that South Arts Festival and Crimson Hotel Filinvest City have come together to come up with an exhibit to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer. With October globally recognized as breast cancer awareness month, South Arts Festival & Crimson Hotel Filinvest City put together Pop of Pink: An Art & Fashion Exhibit and launched it on October 4 at the hotel's Lobby Gallery. Among the participants for fashion are: Beatriz Art & Accessories and Amoire.MNL. For the art section, we have Mia Antonio, Raphael Barroso, Janddie Castillo, Markus Jentes, Jaque Borges, Jliane Perdiguez, Rachel Le Roux and Nikki Vasallo. The exhibit runs until October 24 with a percentage of sales from the exhibit to benefit Stage Zero Foundation by Project Pink.
Seen in photo above (L to R): Keesha Duque (Amoire.MNL), Jaque Borges, South Arts Festival's JJ Duque, Rachel Le Roux, Markus Jentes, Mia Antonio, Carissa Cruz Evangelsita (Beatriz Art & Accessories), Raphael Barroso, Nikki Vasallo & Janddie Castillo.
Ides Contemporary Art Launches Celebration 3
The old masters concern themselves with defining culture as a creative expression. The young have always occupied themselves to be veering on the radical and contemporary. Comprised of large-scale artworks, sculptures, and installations, Ides Contemporary presents Art: Our Common Playground, a selection of visual artists of varying ages, visual styles, and artistic approaches to art. Comprising Celebration 3, it expresses their self-taught metaphors reflecting their experimental yet distinct, confident yet sensitive brushstrokes and sculpting concepts.
Both seasoned and freshly-ushered into the art scene, these artists were mostly students of fine arts and other art-related disciplines, curator Norlie Miemban personally handpicked them for showing their bespoke and promising potential to create.
Exc. from Jay Bautista
Celebration 3 - curated by Norlie Meimban features the works of Hermes Alegre, Ela Andal, Russell Balajadia, Monnar Baldemor, Marko Bello, Arron Berte, Sam Bulaga, Richard Buxani, Wendel Candawan, Janddie Castillo, JC Castillo, Aka Chan, Melvin Culaba, Jeff T. Dizon, Augie Michael Domalaon, JJ Duque, Alvin Florentino, Joselito Jandayan, Binong Javier, Rico Lascano, Joji Limayo, Marloun Magbanua, Ram Mallari, Norlie Meimban, Felix Ely Meimban IV, Pepe Mendoza, Otto Neri, Niño Odosis, Milmar Onal, Anthony Palo, Sam Penaso, Gig De Pio, Maan Premacio, Jay Ragma, Jojo Ramirez, Rosscapili, Aner Sebastian, Gino Tioseco, Bryan Yabut, and Kevin Yrin on display from May 18-31, 2023
Celebration 3 ART: Our Common Playground is the third in a series of Five Celebrations to open the new gallery of Atty. Jing David at Festival Mall. This was done to give an opportunity for several artists to be featured. But instead of having one grand opening, Ides Contemporary Art sectioned it into 5 different celebrations with 5 different themes, featuring various artists per celebration.
Ides Contemporary Art is located at the UGF Expansion Wing of Festival Mall, Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa.
You can follow them on their Instagram by clicking the link below.
Ides Contemporary Art
Color Parade 2023 Launches
Crimson Hotel Filinvest City partnered with South Arts Festival to celebrate Pride Month with The Color Parade art exhibit which featured artists from the LGBTQ+ community. The colorful works of artists Mick Barretto, Cheecho Cacho, Lex Dignos, Drake Pagulayan and Nathaniel San Pedro will be on display from June 2 until July 2, 2023 at the 8th Floor Lobby Gallery of Crimson Hotel Filinvest City.
Radiance Art Exhibit Opens
Crimson Hotel Filinvest City marked its 10th year anniversary with The Radiance Art exhibit which featured ten contemporary artists to commemorate the ten years of the hotel. The exhibit, which runs until May 21 2023, features artworks created by Richard Buxani, JJ Duque, Frederick Epistola, Ivy Lim, Domiel Mercado-Campos, Annabelle Papas, Raeche Dacanay, Daisy Tempongko, Nikki Vasallo, and Bea Viado.