Floral profusion marks Women’s Month at Robinsons Antipolo

Flowers that range in size from tiny and delicate to lush, dinner plate-like dimensions bloom in an ongoing exhibit at ARTablado at Robinsons Antipolo. The exhibit features the works of members of Unified Artists Society (UAS) that was formed last May.

Rey “Ser Rey” Adolfo, Box Populi, Anne Margaret Villanueva, Minda Santa Maria, Jonna Fe Custodio-Adraque and Juvy Teope Mago banded together with the aim “to elevate the world of art to the highest level possible.” By providing an avenue for local artists to showcase their talent, the original group of five has since doubled and tripled in number.   

In less than a year, they have gone on to stage four events and five group shows. “Indayog ng Kalikasan (Dances of Nature): An ode to nature in celebration of Women’s Month” is their sixth group show, which runs until March 15 at the upper ground floor of Robinsons Antipolo’s main mall.

UAS has attracted artists both young and established because of their openness. “We also do mentorship and share our knowledge with aspiring artists,” said Adolfo. “We believe art can be a powerful force for positive change and cultural celebration.”

The theme Dances of Nature was chosen to mark Women’s Month but it was also since many of the participating artists are women whose creations celebrate the country’s diverse flora and fauna. “[The exhibit] showcases the artists’ love for nature. UAS places value on the environment and on the image of women as enchanting and full of beauty,” Rey added. 

“We also hope to spread awareness about the plight of our environment. We want to help people recognize the beauty in diversity, the strength in vulnerability, and the endless capacity for growth and renewal. [The aim of the exhibit is] too inspire people to a deeper reverence for all that is around us and give tribute to the spirit of beauty inherent in all of us.

The group chose ARTablado for their latest group exhibit because, as Adolfo pointed out, “the venue is well known among the artistic community and has enough space to showcase the works of a big group of artists. The name ‘ARTablado’ works like a magnet for artists who want to exhibit their works. It also helps that the people handling it are doing a great job.”

Adolfo then shared a few tips for young artists: “Do not be lazy when you are creating. As you create art, you learn more and become more attuned to the natural world. Avoid rushing through the creative process and turning in mediocre work. Lastly, if you plan to include your work in an exhibit, make sure it is presentable because the finished product speaks volumes about the person.

“Indayog ng Kalikasan (Dances of Nature): An ode to nature in celebration of Women’s Month” features the works of Abe Tejada, Abegail de Luna, Alexander Balmaceda, Ameer Catandihan, Angie Lazaro, Anne Margaret Villanueva, Benn Mar Pauig, Bernadette de Leon, Box Populi, Cristina Alsol, Christy Lagrada-Tabuldan, Edilberto Decillo, Elanor Oberio, Elias Pernecita Jr., Ferdinand Sanchez, Gary Montenegro, Jaime Agudos Tacuyan Jr., Jay Dy, Jem Garcia, Jessa Velonero, JL Timbreza-Siao, Joahna Bonifacio-Luna, Jonna Fe Custodio-Adraque, Julie Ann Tacapan, Juvy Teope Mago-Abne, Karla Maria Fabon, Konica Faustino, Leandro “Lenny” Gatapia, Marie Claire, Marie Criselda Basilio, Minda Sta. Maria, Nathaniel Umali, Ramon Sediego, Rein Jadie Gile, Ser Rey, Tina Aldana-Cabantog, Ton Munoz and Yana Orais.