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The Filipino artist is making art more wearable too
In the What Matters To Me series, a Generation T honouree describes what they do, why they do it, and why it matters.
Quiccs Maiquez makes cool, limited-edition products like toys and art, often inspired by childhood passions, that have proved a big hit internationally. To date, his greatest achievement is his two-year partnership to design shoes, clothing and toys with Adidas, a brand he has loved since his teens. He is also the creative director of multidisciplinary design studio Burnwater.
His work celebrates and unifies the subcultures of Mecha Robots, streetwear, graffiti art and hip-hop through world-class collectible art toys, designer apparel and other merchandise. Here, he shares more about his work in his own words.
Above Quiccs Maiquez has collaborated with Adidas on a special line of trainers.
Quiccs Maiquez has collaborated with Adidas on a special line of trainers.
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I think with everything right now, the main challenge is still related to Covid-19. The main challenge that I faced in the last two years was the cancellation of the toy conventions. These are the fun events where I really meet the collectors, fans, followers and the other very talented artists locally and globally. Without physical presence, it was hard to create our online presence.
I am most proud that I get to do what I love every day. I am earning from what I consider to be play. I am most proud of that. I know it is life's luxury.
Another dream of mine is to see my designs as a game or in a movie.
An interesting fact about me is that I am the first Filipino artist to collaborate with Adidas, Secretlab gaming chairs and USA Major League Baseball cards.
Another fact that surprises people is that I am a Filipino and Manila-based. Usually people think I am an American or Japanese.
See also: Advertising Director Janina Manipol on the Importance of Pursuing Passions
The best piece of advice I have ever received was when my parents encouraged me to take business management in college. I was considering taking a course in the arts, but my parents advised that art will forever be there, and they said I was good in the arts already. It was a very good decision, because I learned how to make profit from my passion, to manage and protect it. It pays that I have a strong background in business management to help me know how to build my art, protect it and form important relationships with people in life.
My favourite artworks are Michael Lau's works. He is an artist from Hong Kong who is considered to be the founder of urban vinyl style on designer toys. I am also heavily influenced by '90s hip-hop music, Japanese cartoons, robots and graffiti—these are all incorporated in my artworks and toys. They represent my childhood dreams and passions.
See more honourees from the Media, Marketing & Advertising category of the Gen.T List 2021.
About
Isabel loves to learn, and see things from different perspectives. Connecting with people and engaging in new experiences to broaden her horizons is what inspires this storyteller, keeping her constantly curious, and excited for what's to come. An absolute love for all things F&B ignited a hunger to devour content from this world and keeps her jumping into tasty adventures around the globe. From the beauty of simple bites, to nuanced fine dining tasting menus, street food, and the art of entertaining, the multi-faceted nature of the dining experience is something she can't get enough of. A good cup of coffee or a glass of wine paired with a dash of witty conversation is a quick way to win her over. This editor loves travelling, food, music, skincare, fitness, and is only friends with people who love dogs. Guilty pleasure?: Binge-watching TV shows and movies she has already seen.
Work
Concept creation is the name of the game and branding takes centre stage in Isabel's day-to-day schedule. From producing shoots, conceptualising bespoke projects for our partners, relationship management, to cooking up features and events for Tatler Dining, this editor is a tried and tested foodie at heart. She mainly writes content for Tatler Dining, engaging in captivating discussions with restaurateurs, chefs, producers, and food enthusiasts to tell must-know stories. Aside from that Isabel manages Tatler Dining's flagship events like Off Menu, or Cocktail Festival and puts together the Tatler Dining Guide, our annual listing of the best eats around town.
Follow her on Instagram @isabelvmf.
