MaArte supports the evolution of Filipino artisans

MANILA, Philippines - MaArte Fair, organized by the Museum Foundation of the Philippines, has been witness to the growth of the best of Filipino craft and artisanship. It has been instrumental in showcasing how traditional Philippine materials, designs and techniques can be adapted to the modern lifestyle, keeping the products relevant to consumers today.

The fair, now on its 8th season, has evolved as well. It has found a new home – the penthouse and lobby of 8 Rockwell, which will host the event from Aug. 26-29.

“We have been doing this for eight years and we have grown so much,” says Museum Foundation president Maritess Pineda. “Over the past years… we have attracted a wider market of individuals who appreciate the indigenous work of the Filipino, for the modern lifestyle.”

Known for its thoughtful selection, the fair will showcase some 70 retailers this year, including jewelry by Gemological Institute of America accredited designer Micki Olaguer who specializes in colored stones, while a group called Silnag, which means “rays of the sun” in Ilokano, uses natural materials like bone and shells to create bold statement pieces.

MaArte features those who make each piece by hand, including EJ Espiritu of Cornerstone Pottery Farm  and mother and son tandem Connie and Caxantino of Happy Star Child.

There are also foodie finds that include Green Babes and Pastry Armoire.

Many retailers featured in MaArte work closely with small communities to help them grow and prosper. Milvidas, for example, specializes in crocheted homewear done by women of Gawad Kalinga. Akaba promotes indigenous, handwoven textiles and empowers underpriveleged rural communities by connecting artisans to the global market. Gifts and Graces works with craftsmen and micro-entrepreneurs from marginalized groups and helps them develop and market high quality handcrafted products.

Also noteworthy is the MaArte Finds section, which features up and coming designers discovered by the MaArte steering committee.

Each carefully-curated piece at the MaArte Fair has evolved from the hands of its makers, but captures something that stays the same through the years – the soul of the Filipino artisan.