Filipino Visual Artists in Austria Showcase Diverse Artworks at Vienna's Wasserturm

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The Filipino Visual Artists in Austria (FVAA) brought together Filipino creativity and artistic expression in a group exhibition at Wasserturm in Vienna’s 10th district, running from October 28 to October 31. Featuring 16 exhibiting artists and one guest artist.

This was not the group’s first exhibition at Wasserturm. FVAA had previously held exhibitions at the same venue, with water as the central theme, a fitting choice given that Wasserturm is a historic water tower. Those earlier exhibitions explored the connection between art and water, drawing inspiration from the building’s identity and history, as well as the archipelagic nature of the Philippines.

For this latest presentation, the group took a different creative direction, moving away from a single subject and embracing an open theme. This allowed the artists to explore a wider range of subjects, techniques and personal inspirations, resulting in a diverse showcase of their individual artistic voices.

The exhibition featured a variety of paintings and photographs, offering visitors a glimpse into the different artistic approaches and inspirations of Filipino artists based in Austria. The collection included beautiful floral compositions, portraits, realistic paintings of water life, imaginative interpretations of nature and expressive figurative works. Among the displayed paintings were atmospheric scenes of solitary figures beneath flowering trees, rendered against contrasting dark backgrounds. Other works explored brighter palettes, with richly coloured flowers, lush greenery and expressive female portraits taking centre stage. These varied interpretations created an interesting dialogue throughout the gallery, demonstrating how artists approach different subjects and emotions through their own distinctive styles.

One of the notable works presented was Urduja, a sculpture by FVAA President Gerardo “Gerry” de Guzman, which had previously been featured during Pamana 2026 in Vienna. Drawing inspiration from the legendary Filipina warrior princess, the sculpture highlighted the artists’ ability to explore Filipino history, identity and cultural heritage through different artistic mediums.

Art, cultural exchange and personal stories

The opening programme brought together members of the Filipino community, art enthusiasts and invited guests. Among those who delivered speeches were Consul Theodore Andrei Bauzon of the Philippine Embassy in Vienna, International Cultural Diversity Organization President Josipa Palac and TFCN’s (The Filipino Correspondent Network) Hector Pascua, alongside FVAA President Gerry de Guzman and Vice President Imelda Perez Papai.

For Consul Bauzon, the invitation carried a personal significance. Reflecting on his father’s dream of becoming an artist, he expressed how being surrounded by Filipino artists brought back memories of his father and his love for art.

“Being invited to this exhibition is particularly meaningful to me because it brings back memories of my father and his dream of becoming an artist. Although life may have taken him along a different path, his love for art has always stayed with me. Being here today, surrounded by Filipino artists sharing their creativity, reminds me of him. I am truly happy and grateful to have been part of this occasion.”

Josipa Palac, meanwhile, highlighted the Filipino community’s active efforts to promote its artistic and cultural heritage in Austria. She recognized how community-led exhibitions provide opportunities for Filipino artists to introduce their work to new audiences and encourage cultural understanding.

“What I find particularly inspiring about the Filipino community in Austria is its active effort to promote and preserve Filipino art and culture. Through exhibitions like this, Filipino artists are given opportunities to share their talents, introduce their cultural heritage and connect with the wider Austrian community. These initiatives show how art can bring people together and strengthen cultural understanding.”

FVAA President Gerry de Guzman and Vice President Imelda Perez Papai also expressed their appreciation to everyone who contributed to the exhibition and supported the organization.

“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the artists who participated and shared their works with us, as well as to everyone who continues to support FVAA and its activities. An exhibition like this would not be possible without the dedication, cooperation and generosity of many people. Every artist, supporter and visitor contributes to keeping our community alive and giving Filipino art a place to be seen and appreciated,” de Guzman said.

Papai likewise extended her gratitude to the exhibiting artists, their families, friends, guest artist and invited speakers.

“My sincere thanks go to all our exhibiting artists, their families and friends, our guest artist, our distinguished guest speakers and everyone who came to support us. Your presence and encouragement mean so much to the group. Behind every successful exhibition is a community of people who believe in what we do. We are grateful to everyone who helped make this gathering possible and celebrated Filipino creativity with us,” she said.

Music, food and Filipino fellowship

Moderated by Kim Navarro, the opening programme combined formal messages with musical performances, making the occasion a celebration of both visual and performing arts.

Music added a special dimension to the evening through performances by Nancy Agbon. Her song selections included Vincent, inspired by the life and work of Vincent van Gogh, and If, bringing a reflective atmosphere to the gathering.

She later joined exhibiting artist Randy Ilagan for a duet of Shallow, creating one of the musical highlights of the opening. The performance brought together two art forms and demonstrated how creativity can connect people beyond the gallery walls.

And, as the familiar Filipino saying goes, no Filipino gathering is complete without food and music! The exhibition opening was no exception. Guests enjoyed food, conversations and laughter, while music and the unmistakable Filipino love for singing and karaoke added to the cheerful atmosphere. It was a reminder that Filipino celebrations are as much about sharing good food and music as they are about bringing people together.

Special thanks were also extended to FVAA members Mamerto Luya, who helped with the food arrangements, and Kim Navarro, who served as programme moderator. Although neither participated as an exhibiting artist this time, both played important roles behind the scenes in making the event a success. Their contributions reflected the spirit of cooperation and support that keeps the group’s artistic community thriving.

The exhibiting artists

The participating artists were Alma Laurian-Pajer, Benedikt Valdres, Blair Siasico, Cecille Alfonso Basierto, Gemma Wimmer, Gizelle Khan, Jam Fernández Matsunaga, Jemilly Velasco, Lisa Ante Pangan, Randy Ilagan, Rose Neumann, Sarah Jozelle Rojas, Shiela Feliciano, Vincent Gani Banacia, Imelda Perez Papai and Gerry de Guzman.

Joining them as guest artist was Samantha Ishael Membrot.

For the participating artists, the exhibition provided an opportunity to share their creative journeys, exchange ideas and introduce their works to a wider audience. Each painting carried its own visual language and personal interpretation, while the collective presentation demonstrated the breadth of Filipino artistic expression.

More than a display of paintings, the gathering highlighted FVAA’s role in bringing artists together and strengthening the presence of Filipino creatives in Austria. Through exhibitions, collaborations and cultural activities, the organization continues to create opportunities for Filipino artists to share their talents and build connections within the wider Austrian arts community.

At Wasserturm, the celebration was a reminder that art goes beyond individual works and artistic achievements. It is also about people, shared experiences, cultural identity, food, music and the friendships built through a common passion for creativity.