Cover Jaime Gubaton's works

Time and time again, artists tell us that they strive to be anyone they can be and thus explore limitless possibilities

The world is definitely your oyster; you can do all things you want to do with the opportunities life has to offer—no one's going to stop you. This is the concept that Ides Contemporary Art wants to tell in one of their latest endeavours. 

Titled “Celebration 2: The World is My Oyster”, this exhibition in Alabang curated by archivist Kristoffer del Villlar showcased a collection of several artists’ artworks—pieces that encapsulate the message of gratitude for endless opportunities. For him, it is an era that focuses on the treasures one should be thankful for.

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Above A set of artworks

The artists, acting as writers, note that each piece is inspired by reality. The everyday. The mundane. Their past, their present, along with their positive outlook for the future. “If the world is your oyster then you’re likely to find treasure in it, and these participating artists surely did,” says del Villar in the exhibit catalogue. 

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Above A set of artworks

Among the talented artists who lend a hand was Denise Heredia, who expands her artistic skills by exploring the world. Her works symbolise her acceptance of life for what it is. The artist isn’t forcing things anymore.

On the other hand, Olivia D’Aboville and Chino Yulo were one of the few to focus on nature. D’Aboville stressed natural wonders that stood out from the rest of the world, such as Mount Iglit-Baco National Park in the Philippines. Yulo focused more on the specifics, particularly his fascination with the water. As he considers the ocean his church, he hopes that his pieces will be another drop that will start a ripple.  

Melissa Yeung-Yap also stood her ground and stayed true to her advocacy. Through her works, she spoke for the unnoticed and promotes the importance of celebrating the rich culture of our local art scene. 

Another artist keen on symbolism is Kiko Marquez. He incorporated the texture of plastic bubble wraps in his pieces to relay a message of protection in one’s valuables and exert effort to uncover and see what’s within. 

Read also: Melissa Yeung-Yap on the importance of Filipino-centrism in art and philanthropy

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Above Kiko Marquez's The Alter World of Cleopatra
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Above Ambie Ambaño's wisdom and Illusory Self; Kiko Marquez's Alter world of a lady's series 04

Meanwhile, Ingrid Valerie Cagas proudly shared her most powerful ally: colours. Young, rebellious and positive, she insisted that she wants her works to be unapologetically honest as herself. 

Others like Ambie Ambaño, however, responded to their inner passion. An architect turned visual artist, she found her true calling in creating portraits and illustrations. 

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Above Chino Yulo's Cerulean and Princess Empress 1
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Above Ingrid Valerie Cagas' Watch what happens at 7:00

Other exciting artists whose works celebrated life and its opportunities were Carl Martin Aragones, Cezar Arro, Reynard Borillo, Tao Butao, Ferdie Cacnio, Jesse Camacho, Tammy De Roca, Ross Gadiana, Jaime Gubaton, Allain Hablo, Denise Heredia, Markus Jentes, Piaget Martelino, Katey Oliva, Josh Palisoc, Marlon Ponsoy, CJ Tañedo, Christian Tamondong, Jhon Tejones, Valen Valero, and Edwin Wilwayco

For them, the world is their oyster—they can do anything they want. They can be anyone. 

For more information, please visit idescontemporaryart.com.

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Angela Nicole Guiral
Digital Editor, Tatler Philippines
Tatler Asia

Angela Nicole Regis Guiral is the assistant digital editor of Tatler Philippines. She studied journalism and has since written features that look closely at how culture, lifestyle and social impact converge, while occasionally wandering into the worlds of style and travel.