Cover Anna Bautista’s ‘From Here, to There’, which can be seen at DF Art Agency’s European Cultural Centre-sponsored exhibition ‘Textures and Interstices’ at Palazzo Mora for the 2024 Venice Biennial Personal Structures exhibition (Photo: Courtesy of DF Art Agency)
Anna Bautista’s ‘From Here, to There’, which can be seen at DF Art Agency’s European Cultural Centre-sponsored exhibition ‘Textures and Interstices’ at Palazzo Mora for the 2024 Venice Biennial Personal Structures exhibition (Photo: Courtesy of DF Art Agency)
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Praise and clamour for Filipino artistry are received once again as the Philippines participate at the 60th International Exhibition of Venice Art Biennale and the 2024 Venice Biennial Personal Structures exhibit
It’s the time of the year again for the much-anticipated event in the global art scene. Art enthusiasts, critics, gallerists, collectors, and more gathered last April 20 for the grand opening of the 60th International Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, also known as Venice Art Biennale. What made it more exciting was the mounting of another exhibition at Palazzo Mora, the 2024 Venice Biennial Personal Structures exhibition. This all-out participation of several Filipino artists showcases to the international community the artistry and craftsmanship Filipinos are known for.
The Philippine Pavilion of the Venice Art Biennale is at the Arsenale. It features the cerebral work of Mark Salvatus, one of the most sought-after contemporary artists today. Curated by Carlos Quijon Jr, the exhibition, Behind the curtain of this age, introduces the natural elements Mt Banahaw has been cradling for generations and the mysticism that envisages the historic mountain.
Above The Philippine Pavilion at the Arsenale in this year’s Venice Art Biennale features Mark Salvatus’s exhibition titled, ‘Kabilang-tabing ng panahong ito‘ (Behind the curtain of this age) (Photo: Andrea D’Altoe / Courtesy of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts - Philippine Arts in Venice Biennale)
The Philippine Pavilion at the Arsenale in this year’s Venice Art Biennale features Mark Salvatus’s exhibition titled, ‘Kabilang-tabing ng panahong ito‘ (Behind the curtain of this age) (Photo: Andrea D’Altoe / Courtesy of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts - Philippine Arts in Venice Biennale)
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At the Arsenale’s main exhibition, Manila and New York-based contemporary art gallery Silverlens features the works of Pacita Abad. Moreover, visitors may also catch the ethereal performances of Joshua Serafin. This main exhibition was curated by Adriano Pedrosa and was titled Stranieri Ovunque (Foreigners Everywhere).
Serafin is a Filipino Brussels-based multi-disciplinary artist who combines dance, performance, visual arts, and choreography. Belgium’s vibrant art centre, Viernulvier, houses this artist for the season 2023-2027.
In their Instagram post, Serafin said: “Such a complex feeling after this beautiful opening week of the Biennale. I can’t describe how it feels in one word. So much feelings, and so much complexity but beyond everything. I am deeply grateful to be part of this beautiful show. Meeting all the beautiful works and artist has been such a gift and meeting all friends from different places and lifetime.”
Meanwhile, the Venice Art Biennale happily showcases the works of Anita Magsaysay-Ho, Nena Saguil, and Maria Taniguchi at the Central Pavilion (Giardini). The 2024 Venice Biennale runs through November 24.
Read more: Silverlens marks two decades with a special exhibition and anniversary bash
On the other side of the famed city, the European Cultural Centre partnered with DF Art Agency to showcase the works of several Filipino contemporary artists who have been making waves locally and regionally. This separate exhibition, the 2024 Venice Biennial Personal Structures, coincides with the Venice Art Biennale and highlights the international acclaim and fascination with the Philippines’ vibrant art scene.
The curated collection showcases an eclectic mix of exceptional talents of Alfredo Esquillo, Anna Bautista, Cedrick Dela Paz, Demi Padua, Dino Gabito, Isko Andrade, Emmanuel “Manny” Garibay, Mark Andy Garcia, Marrie Saplad, Max Balatbat, Pongbayog, and Raffy Napay. The exhibition runs until November 24.
Read more: Derek Flores of DF Art Agency: Purveyor of today’s must-have art pieces
‘Dial-A-God’ by Alfredo Esquillo, 2024, oil on canvas, 60 x 48 inches
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“This exhibition is not just a platform for individual artists but a testament to the vibrant and dynamic nature of Philippine contemporary art. As the only participant representing the Philippines at the ECC's Biennial event, the project is a beacon of national pride and a pivotal step towards introducing Filipino artists to the global art community,” DF Art Agency stated.
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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.
