Cover (Photo: Shianne Gomez of Pose & Play Studio)

Artist and pharmaceutical entrepreneur, Melissa Yeung-Yap, infuses a touch of local Filipino flair into her artwork, making a magnanimous statement in both her art and business

Melissa Yeung-Yap has more than a handful of strong suits. A known entrepreneur and artist, Yeung-Yap is also something of a philanthropist—though, in our interview, the word itself ("philanthropist") never came up. Instead, Yeung-Yap merely spoke of her multi-faceted passions, ones that were magnanimous in nature but never for show. One of her greatest loves is the arts, which has a bit of a funny backstory. "My passion for arts started when I was in pre-school," Yeung-Yap shares. "I was the only girl in the family. At that time, we only had one TV, and my brothers would always outvote me on which show to watch, so I ended up just creating crafts to pass the time." 

Read more: 5 Artists Who Are Also Masters In the Kitchen

Fast forward a couple of decades, and Yeung-Yap no longer has to contend with anyone for the television. She has, however, freely chosen to pursue her childhood hobby in her adult life. 

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Above T'nalak animals
Tatler Asia
Above T'nalak animals

Though half-Chinese by blood, Yeung-Yap has a distinct art style showcasing Filipino culture's beauty. Indigenous Philippine culture is a huge inspiration for the artist, who's worked and volunteered with many local artisans. "My style is modern contemporary art infused with indigenous cultural elements," she explains. "The challenge I've given myself as an artist is to use my art as a platform to help indigenous and grassroots communities sustain their craft by presenting it in a way that would be appreciated in these modern times." 

Before the pandemic, Yeung-Yap had travelled to depressed areas to conduct art workshops for children affected by calamities. She has visited victims of war (such as those in Marawi) and natural disasters. "I've seen how art can really help children express themselves and begin to heal from such traumatic experiences," Yeung-Yap shares. "I also work a lot in regional art promotion and development, particularly where I live in Tarlac, and it's so inspiring to see young and old people express themselves so beautifully." 

During the pandemic, Yeung-Yap collaborated with T'boli, Inabel, and Palawan weavers, alongside Paete woodcarvers and artisans, to promote their products. "I've then made it a point to include as much of their products as I can into my art while still retaining my personal aesthetic, which is more modern and contemporary. Thankfully, our art has been widely supported, allowing us to revolve more funds back to the community." 

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Playing around with such traditional items can definitely be intimidating. Fortunately, Yeung-Yap remains within the confines of what each tribe allows; her relationship with these also helps to give her access to fantastic pieces to showcase. "I wanted to incorporate more of their weaves, so I sent them my palette, and they dyed the abaca accordingly. Good thing this practice is acceptable and is not in violation of their tradition," she smiles. 

Read more: Art Fair PH Featured Artist Bjorn Calleja on Navigating the Future of Art

Her overall artistic philosophy helps in forging close relationships with those whose art she features. "My overarching philosophy is for my art not just to be a medium for self-expression but also a medium to help improve lives: mine, my audience, and communities close to my heart. I want my art to be a platform for cultural artisans to share their craft, story and culture, to increase their sales so they can sustain their livelihood," she explains. "Floral/natural elements are also typically used to share my advocacy on taking care of the environment. Most of my pieces are serene because I also advocate for self-care. Looking at art is usually a solitary activity. I want my audience to feel happy, or at least pleasant, when they look at my art amidst the chaos and stress of life."

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After gaining recognition as an artist, it may surprise some to know that Yeung-Yap also helms a pharmaceutical company as part of her career path. Katinko, a menthol oil and ointment cure, is a significant commitment of Yeung-Yap's. Though it seems almost contradictory, Yeung-Yap says this complements her artistic endeavours. "Given Katinko's mass-market appeal, we were able to use the platform available to us to help promote local artists to our customers through the Katinko art gift boxes," she says. "Artists received royalties and got to increase their audience, while the audience who mostly won't get to afford original art got access to the artists." 

Balancing both worlds may seem like a bit of a challenge, but it is only natural to Yeung-Yap. "Pharmaceutical companies are generally very rigid because we need to abide by many rules and regulations. Art-making allows me to move more freely and also keep ideas flowing," she explains. "Art always makes me happy." 

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