MANILA, Philippines - Art aficionados gathered last March 23 at Jaime Velasquez Park in Salcedo Village for a day of wonderful sights and gastronomic delights. In its eighth year, Art in the Park got bigger and better with the 58 galleries, art schools, and independent art groups who exhibited this year. Its aim is to bring art outside museum walls and let people experience it in a more relaxed setting.
Aside from the usual framed paintings, refurbished furniture, installations, comics, prints and pottery were housed under white marquees scattered throughout the entire park. From Rob Cham’s heartbreaking comics to Pete Jimenez’s ode to public transportation, there was no shortage of visual inspiration at the fair. Jomike Tejido’s “Elly Riders,†a set of colorful elephant-shaped furniture with built-in wheels, was a hit with kids and kids at heart. Maxine Syjuco’s “Death of a Salesman (The Wolves Part 1)†welcomed some of the guests with its enchanting take on she-wolves and false mirrors. Secret Fresh’s customized Stormtroopers added a unique pop culture twist to the fair’s setting.
Art enthusiasts searched for their go-to galleries’ booths to catch a bargain from their favorite artists. With nothing over P30,000 and a wide array of artworks to choose from, there was definitely something for the newbie collectors and veteran aficionados.
Not only did Art in the Park feed the eyes, but it also fed the stomach. El Chupacabra, Yuan’s Paella, and Desserts by Ginny, among others, sold delicious grub to the attendees while they rested. The adults cooled down with a cup of wine from The Straits Wine Company, the kids ogled the edible cotton candy animal art by Avellana Art Gallery, all of it scored to the relaxing music of Soulful Mood Strings.
With good food, fantastic art and soulful music, Art in the Park was definitely a feast for the senses. — MAINE MANALANSAN