Members of the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Fine Arts Alumni Association gathered together last October 8 at The Velaris for an intimate celebration of camaraderie and diversity in the pursuit of art
A homecoming event, an exhibition of paintings and sculptures, and an opportunity to showcase the artistic talents of alumni of the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts. There are many ways to describe the event last October 8—a private viewing at the Velaris Showroom in Bridgetown, Quezon City. The exhibition opened to the public from October 9 to October 22.
It featured a collection of artworks with diverse styles and media inspired by Filipino aesthetics, a stunning array of pieces highlighting religious motifs, native flora and fauna, indigenous textiles like abaca, and the urban landscape.
Some prominent figures in Philippine art, such as Elmer Borlongan, Lito Carating, Toym Imao, Junyee, Rico Lascano, Fred Liongoren, Camille Ver, and Nestor Vinluan, shared their exquisite pieces for the show.
Other exemplary artists include Alex Aguilar, Carlito Amalla, Ana Araneta, Armand Bacaltos, Benjie Cabangis, Maria Antonette Cac, Phons Castaneda, Marcy Dans, Jeff Dizon, Mara Fabella, Esther Garcia, Ding Hidalgo, James Hermogenes, Pete Jimenez, Norlie Meimban, Janice Liuson-Young, Pearl Ortega, Menchu Pascual, Erwin Teves Pascual, Katrina Pallon, Gig de Pio, Sim de Pio, Gabby Prado, Paul Quiaño, Mitzi Aguilar-Reyes, Gabbi Reyes-Banaria, Tammy De Roca, KR Rodgers, Marc San Valentin, Ann Tulayan, Raffy Ugaddan, Rick de Villa, Celvic Villacorta, and Anna Vergel RS.
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Above Marcy Dans, 'Untitled', water colour

Above Benjie Cabangis, 'Watching Trees Grow II', acrylic on canvas, 2021
Members of the alumni association organised the exhibit across generations to promote the evolution of local visual art and raise funds for a brand-new, state-of-the-art building.
In an opening speech, Pascual, a 1971 Bachelor of Fine Arts graduate, remarked, We dream that through your support, we shall pave the way for future artists to let their voices be heard across our nation and to the world.
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The Velaris Showroom was intimate but not too confining. Its clean walls and stylish atmosphere were a fitting backdrop for a gathering of old friends coming together for the shared appreciation of craft and creativity.

Above Ana Abigail Araneta, 'Padayon', acrylic on canvas, 2023

Above Celvic Villacorta, 'Sofa Home', acrylic on crumpled canvas, 2023
Today marks the beginning of a series of fundraising exhibits aimed at nurturing and sustaining the future of the next generation of artists through scholarships and support to our beloved College,
Pascual says.
Indeed, the collective efforts made by the UPCFA and its supporters will bear the fruit of future students advocating for diversity in art.
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