Cover Jonathan Rachman, Jemma Cave, Jonathan Matti at the dinner hosted at the Malacañan Palace for the British luxury brand de Gournay (Photo: courtesy of the Office of the President)
Jonathan Rachman, Jemma Cave, Jonathan Matti at the dinner hosted at the Malacañan Palace for the British luxury brand de Gournay (Photo: courtesy of the Office of the President)
1 / 1
The three-day celebration honouring the exquisite art of luxury wallpaper by de Gournay was concluded with a formal dinner at Malacañang hosted by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos
The distinguished British luxury brand de Gournay, known for its wallpaper and fabrics, held an exhibition in Manila in March. Over three days, the event highlighted Manila’s rich history and artistic traditions through an engaging cultural showcase. Named Latina Manila, it was held at the historic Malacañan Palace, emphasising the venue’s importance as a cultural guardian of the Philippines. The highlight was an impressive display of handpainted wallpaper panels created through a collaboration between de Gournay and acclaimed Filipino interior designer Jonathan Matti. As the first Filipino to partner with the prestigious British brand, Matti contributed to a 20-panel art piece that beautifully merges fine art with interior design.
Above The cocktail area spotlights the handpainted panels
The cocktail area spotlights the handpainted panels
1 / 1
Originally introduced in 2017, the Latina Manila, designed by Matti, was created in the traditional papiers prints panoramiques style. The artwork beautifully revived 19th-century Philippines in handpainted splendour, echoing the timeless flow of the nearby Pasig River. The panoramic scenes are rich with local flora and fauna, prominently featuring native bamboo groves and flame trees. These exquisite panels now permanently adorn important spaces within the Palace, including the State Dining Room, the President’s Hall and Kalayaan Hall.
The highlight of the three-day celebration was an elegant formal dinner held on the second night at Malacañang. De Gournay’s founder, Claud Cecil Gurney, travelled to Manila with his international team to mark the historic unveiling. The evening was hosted by President Ferdinand R Marcos, Jr and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, bringing together international dignitaries and cultural luminaries.
Read more: What’s next for the Pasig River?
Above Stephanie Spero, Claud Cecil Gurney
Stephanie Spero, Claud Cecil Gurney
1 / 1
Under the guidance of Indonesian-American interior designer Jonathan Rachman, the venue showcased exquisite local floral arrangements and sophisticated tablescapes. Guests enjoyed a culinary feast that highlighted the rich, diverse cuisines of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The evening was further enhanced by a performance from the award-winning singer-songwriter Nicole Laurel Asensio.The event was ultimately a celebration of shared narratives, reflecting the historical legacy of global exchange established by the galleon trade.
Huai Seng Chong, Ning Chong
1 / 8
Through this partnership with local cultural leaders and artists, de Gournay demonstrated its dedication to preserving traditional artisanal techniques whilst connecting histories across continents. The Latina Manila exhibition successfully highlighted the Philippines as an essential contributor to the international arts dialogue, transforming the past into a living sanctuary of style and showcasing the boundless potential of Filipino artistry to the world.
NOW READ
Fashion Aid Philippines’s The Grant 2025 hails Deya Tsyna from Bohol as the winner
The Goldenberg Art Series presents Ronald Ventura’s ‘Astig-Mata’ exhibition
Credits
Images: courtesy of the Office of the President
Topics
About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
Work
Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
