The Design Center of the Philippines celebrated its 50th anniversary with "Art x Design: A Special Reception of the 50 Years of Philippine Design and Beyond" at the National Museum of Fine Arts. A staggering variety of items that represent the height of Philippine industrial design and architecture over the last fifty years are on display in this exhibition. President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. graced the occasion as a guest speaker at the exhibition, which is a monument to the extraordinary contributions made by Filipino architects and designers to developing the country's cultural landscape. Marian Pastor Roces is the exhibition's curator. It includes notable artists whose works have had a long-lasting impact on Philippine design.
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Francisco Mañosa: Embracing Filipino Heritage
Mañosa's design for LRT station terminals inspired by bahay kubo (top); his 'Bobi Toys' design
Francisco "Bobby" Mañosa, a renowned National Artist for Architecture and Allied Arts, is a shining example of Filipino architectural creativity. Mañosa's designs, such as the iconic Light Rail Train (LRT) station terminals and the Coconut Palace, showcase a harmonious fusion of indigenous aesthetics and modern functionality, drawing inspiration from the traditional bahay-kubo. His early entry into the design world, when he created wooden toys with Filipino themes, highlights his dedication to maintaining local history in the face of a quickly changing environment.
Al De Lange: Pioneering Indigenous Design
Chair designed by the Philippines' first industrial designer, Al De Lange
As the Philippines' first industrial designer and founding director of the Design Center, Al De Lange revolutionized the field by seamlessly blending international influences with indigenous materials such as narra. Through his furniture brand Designs Ligna, De Lange introduced the concept of indigenized international style, ushering in a new era of design that celebrates the nation's rich cultural heritage.
Arthur Edwards: Innovating with Rattan
'Bella' chair was designed by Arthur Edwards and produced by Mehitabel Inc.
Arthur Edwards' groundbreaking use of laminated rattan poles in the "Bella" chair epitomizes his innovative approach to furniture design. While incorporating cosmopolitan elements, Edwards' creations retain a distinctly Filipino aesthetic, highlighting the versatility of indigenous materials in contemporary design.
Jon Pettyjohn: Mastering Ceramics
Jon Pettyjohn's first-ever pottery (left), together with another landmark Philippine pottery (top, right) and now rare pottery with Palawan animal motifs (bottom, right)
Jon Pettyjohn's pioneering work in studio pottery has earned him recognition as the country's premier ceramic artist. Together with his wife Tessy, Pettyjohn's contributions to Philippine contemporary ceramics have been instrumental in shaping the local art scene.
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Larry Cruz: Transforming Tradition
Picture of Cafe Adriatico interior
Entrepreneur and restaurateur Larry Cruz's Café Adriatico exemplifies a unique blend of tradition and innovation. By repurposing salvaged materials from old houses, Cruz created a space that pays homage to Filipino heritage while embracing modern design sensibilities.
Budji Layug: From Hairdressing to Furniture Making
'80s armchair by Antonio 'Budji' Layug
Budji Layug's journey from celebrity hairdresser to acclaimed furniture maker reflects his boundless creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Inspired by traditional boat-making techniques, Layug's furniture designs showcase a harmonious fusion of craftsmanship and modern aesthetics.
Betty and Kenneth Cobonpue: A Legacy of Design Excellence
'Lotus' Chair (1984) by Betty Cobonpue
The Cobonpue family's legacy in design spans generations, with Betty and Kenneth Cobonpue leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Betty's bent rattan chair and Kenneth's innovative furniture designs exemplify their commitment to pushing the boundaries of design while staying true to their Filipino roots.
Movement 8: Championing Filipino Design on the Global Stage
Movement 8 furniture (left), including a shell-covered 'Palayok' metalwork by Luisa Robinson (right)
In response to global competition, Movement 8 emerged as a collective of Filipino designers determined to showcase the nation's design prowess on the international stage. Led by Budji Layug, the group's innovative approach to design has garnered acclaim worldwide, cementing their status as ambassadors of Philippine design excellence.
Napoleon Abueva: Sculpting Tradition
Bench sculpted wood (2006) by Napoleon Abueva
National Artist Napoleon Abueva's mastery of sculpture extends beyond traditional art forms, as evidenced by his iconic Narra benches that seamlessly blend functionality with artistic expression. Abueva's contributions to Philippine design exemplify a unique fusion of artistry and functionality.
Schema Lanterns: A Tale of Resilience
Schema 'Luminaire' chandeliers
Celia Jiao's resilience in the face of adversity underscores the transformative power of design. Jiao and her family's journey from exporting Christmas decorations to making inventive lamps out of recycled materials is demonstrated through Schema, demonstrating the adaptability and creativity of Filipino designers in a world that is changing quickly.
The "Art x Design" exhibition honors the creativity, inventiveness, and perseverance of Filipino designers and architects who have contributed to creating the nation's distinctive style in celebrating 50 years of Philippine design and architecture. The show captivates and inspires viewers while acting as a continual reminder of the extraordinary legacy of Philippine design.
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