National Arts Month: Philippine Embassy in Vienna Features Filipino Visual Artists in Austria

February 25-27, 2024 – Vienna, Austria – The Philippine Embassy in Vienna proudly presented an exclusive art exhibition showcasing the remarkable works of the members of the Filipino Visual Artists in Austria, in celebration of National Arts Month. This inspiring event served as a platform for Filipino artists in Austria to share their talents, express their unique perspectives, and strengthen cultural ties between the Philippines and Austria through the power of visual storytelling.

Capturing the scenes, colors, and cultural richness of the Philippines, the exhibition transported guests on a journey through the country’s breathtaking landscapes, diverse traditions, and historical narratives. From the lush rice terraces of Ifugao to the vivid hues of festive celebrations, each piece of art reflected the heart and soul of the Filipino experience, kindling nostalgia, admiration, and a renewed appreciation for the country’s artistic heritage.

The exhibition featured a collection of paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media pieces, highlighting the dynamic creativity of Filipino artists who skillfully blend contemporary perspectives with traditional influences. Each artwork told a unique and compelling story—whether depicting the serene beauty of rural life, the bustling energy of urban landscapes, the blueness and depth of Philippine waters, or the resilience, strength, and warmth of the Filipino spirit. These masterpieces not only celebrated the artistic excellence of Filipinos in Austria but also served as a reminder of the profound connection between art and cultural identity.

Philippines Ambassador to Austria, Evangelina Lourdes A. Bernas, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the FVAA for selecting the Philippine Embassy as the venue for their exhibit. She emphasized that hosting the exhibition at the embassy not only showcases the artistic talents of the Filipino community in Austria but also strengthens cultural ties and promotes a deeper appreciation of Filipino heritage and creativity. Ambassador Bernas acknowledged the FVAA’s efforts in bringing Filipino artistry to a wider audience and reaffirmed the embassy’s commitment to supporting such initiatives that celebrate and uplift Filipino culture on the international stage.

Filipino Visual Artists in Austria: Promoting Art, Culture, and Community

The Filipino Visual Artists in Austria (FVAA) is a dedicated group of Filipino artists residing in Austria who share a passion for visual arts. More than just a collective of painters, sculptors, and creatives, FVAA serves as a platform for cultural exchange, education, and community engagement.

Gerardo “Gerry” de Guzman, a Filipino artist based in Vienna, serves as the President of the FVAA. He co-founded the FVAA in 2019 alongside Imelda Perez Papai, aiming to foster unity and camaraderie among Filipino artists residing in Austria. Under de Guzman’s leadership, the FVAA has actively promoted Filipino artistry through various exhibitions and workshops. Notably, the group held its first collective exhibition titled “Wasser – Water – Tubig” in June 2023 at Vienna’s Wasserturm Favoriten, showcasing the diverse talents of its members.

A Mission to Educate and Inspire

FVAA is committed to making art accessible to all. Through workshops, art classes, and exhibitions, the group encourages both aspiring and experienced artists to develop their skills. They offer painting lessons, creative expression sessions, and hands-on guidance to those who want to explore various art forms. Their workshops are open to people of all ages and backgrounds, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for learning.

Community and Collaboration

Beyond teaching art, FVAA actively engages in collaborative projects, festivals, and exhibitions, showcasing the rich artistic talents of Filipinos in Austria. Their events often highlight Filipino culture, traditions, and history, allowing the Austrian and international community to gain a deeper appreciation of the Philippines through visual storytelling.

Empowering Through Creativity

FVAA believes that art is a powerful tool for self-expression and emotional well-being. By providing opportunities for creative growth, they empower individuals to find their voice and tell their own stories through painting, photography drawing, and other artistic mediums. For the exhibit, 17 artists participated and they are as follows:

Gerry de Guzman

De Guzman has been painting even as a young child, continuing on until today, spanning over 40 years. He uses various media in his art, and also delves into sculpting, among many other forms of arts. De Guzman’s pieces at the exhibit include:

Harvest (Framed Artwork, Watercolor)

This realistic painting depicts a traditional farming scene in the Philippines, showcasing a group of Filipino farmers working together to harvest rice.

The painting highlights rural life, teamwork, and the essence of Filipino agricultural heritage. The use of earthy tones and detailed brushwork brings out the authenticity of the scene, emphasizing the hardworking spirit of Filipino farmers.

Colorful Jeepney Painting (Black Canvas, acrylic)

This bright, pop-art-style painting features a Filipino jeepney, a well-known mode of transportation in the Philippines. The neon colors contrast against a black background, making the design stand out. The text on the jeepney includes familiar route names like “Manila, Quiapo, Taft, and Luneta,” referencing major locations in the Philippine capital.

The painting symbolizes Filipino resilience, creativity, and the lively urban culture of the country.

Brass Metal Badjao House Sculpture

This piece, a small yet intricate gold-colored sculpture of a traditional Filipino Badjao house (Stilt), is placed on a stylized base that mimics water. The detailed craftsmanship showcases the cultural importance of these stilt houses, which are commonly found in the areas of the Sulu and Celebes Seas in the Philippines. A small boat (bangka) is positioned next to the hut, further emphasizing the connection to Filipino coastal or riverside living.

Imelda Papai

Papai, the Vice President of the FVAA, is not only an accomplished leader but also an international fashion artist and body painter. Her artistic expertise has been widely recognized, with her works being showcased in numerous galleries including a solo exhibition at the United Nations Office in Vienna, where she presented her renowned painting series, Femme. This collection charmed audiences with its powerful depiction of femininity. Papai’s contributions to the art world continue to make a significant impact, highlighting her versatility and creative vision.

Yamang Dagat Badjao (Acrylic)

A unique perspective of an artwork capturing a group of legs and feet in flip-flops dangling over an edge, likely a dock. Below, the pristine Philippine waters reflect the legs, adding a sense of nostalgia and playfulness to the scene. The composition evokes carefree moments, inviting viewers to reminisce about simple joys by the water. Papai explained that for the Badjaos, wearing flip-flops signifies embracing a more modern lifestyle, as they have traditionally gone barefoot.

In the distance, one can see stilt houses (even clothes hanging to dry), a homage to the Badjaos whose resilience has been a testimony to how Filipinos adapt. The bright blue sky and green landscape add to the lively, carefree energy of the painting.

Yamang Gubat (Acrylic)

A rich, green nature-inspired piece filled with various tropical plants, flowers, and birds. The detailed foliage and bright floral elements celebrate the beauty of Philippine nature and biodiversity. This painting is a reflection of Papai’s childhood, where lush flora thrived in every corner of their home. Positioned on the lower part of the easel, it is best appreciated from that perspective—just as Papai once saw her world as a child, filled with curiosity, or while nestled on her loving father’s lap.

The painting conveys a sense of peace, harmony, and connection to the environment, also a sense of longing to what once was.

Perlito Mesa

A hobbyist for many years now, Mesa enjoys painting chunks of reality that depicts sceneries of Philippine landscapes.

Color of Nature I (Acrylic)

This painting depicts a serene landscape with a river or stream flowing through it. Lush trees with bright green, yellow, and pink foliage frame the water.

The water appears to be a clear turquoise, reflecting the sky. The painting has an impressionistic style with visible brushstrokes and rich texture.

Color of Nature II (Acrylic)

A detailed nature scene featuring a tropical setting. A pair of bright green orchids with red-speckled centers are prominently featured in the foreground.

A cascading waterfall flows in the background, with a dramatic sky above. The painting incorporates deep blues, greens, and purples, creating a mystical atmosphere. Various plants and flowers are scattered throughout, adding depth overall.

These are glimpses of everyday scene commonly seen in the Philippines.

Gemma Wimmer

In her younger years, Wimmer frequently won painting contests, but as life grew busier, she had less time to devote to her art. It wasn’t until recently that she was able to reconnect with her passion. (One would hardly suspect she’s retired, given how remarkably youthful she looks.)

Baro (Acrylic)

The central subject of this portrait painting is a young girl with long, flowing black hair, dressed in a soft pink dress adorned with delicate white patterns. Her gentle expression and poised stance gives a sense of innocence and nostalgia, drawing the viewer into a moment frozen in time. This artwork is a heartfelt tribute to Wimmer’s mother, who lovingly tailored similar dresses (baro in Filipino) for her as a child. Each stitch and fabric choice carried the warmth of a mother’s love and dedication, making these dresses more than just garments but cherished symbols of care and tradition. In retrospect, it serves as a beautiful and sentimental reflection of her childhood, preserving the deep bond between mother and daughter.

Binibini (Acrylic)

This striking piece showcases a woman’s face, partially obscured by a dense cluster of green bamboo stalks, creating an air of mystery and intrigue. Her expression is intense and captivating, with deep brown eyes that seem to hold untold stories and emotions. Her bold red lips contrast sharply against the surrounding greenery, adding a sense of passion and strength to her presence.

The interplay between the woman’s features and the natural elements surrounding her suggests a deeper narrative—one of identity, cultural fusion, and self-expression, recurring themes in Wimmer’s body of work. The bamboo, a symbol of resilience, growth, and tradition, intertwines with her face, possibly representing the delicate balance between nature and self, heritage and individuality.

Marvin Balcos

Balcos started painting some years back, his  work often reflects his deep connection to Filipino culture, history, and the natural environment. His art highlights flora and fauna, and other subjects related to his home province, Palawan.

Golden Fish Sculpture (paper tree)

A sculpture featuring multiple golden fish stacked on top of each other. The fish are intricately carved, with a smooth and polished finish, and are arranged in a direction symbolizing movement. This piece is a nod to his beloved Palawan, often called the “Last Frontier” of the Philippines, it is known for its rich marine biodiversity and thriving fishing industry.

Triton and the Call of the Climate (Colored Pencils)

A framed artwork featuring a detailed rendering of a seashell called ‘Budyong‘ or the Triton’s Trumpet on a beach-like background. The shell is depicted with fine details, emphasizing its natural texture and patterns. In Palawan, The Budyong is often used as a horn or trumpet by fishermen and indigenous groups, such as the Tagbanua, to signal gatherings, warn of danger, or call for assistance. In Europe, the Triton shell is often seen as an exotic marine specimen collected for display or used in interior décor.

Balcos explains, “This artwork serves as a call to the international community to safeguard our sovereign waters and, most importantly, protect the rich marine life of the Philippines for future generations. As the global climate crisis intensifies—marked by rising ocean temperatures and surging sea levels—this ancient creature stands as a stark reminder of the urgent threats humanity must confront.”

“Basket Caught in a Frame” – The Palawan Tingkep (Bamboo, Palm, Rattan)

A framed piece of traditional weaving, featuring a geometric pattern made from from stripped and finely shaven materials from various bamboo, palm and rattan. The intricate design showcases a rich cultural heritage, with interwoven brown and beige tones creating a visually striking symmetrical pattern.

In 2023, research by the University of the Philippines and the National Museum’s Archaeological Team confirmed the significance of stone tools, obsidian artifacts, and fiber technology found in the Tabon Cave complex. These discoveries highlight a rich heritage, linking Tingkep basketry and advanced fiber weaving techniques to our ancestors—long before European colonization. This invaluable legacy is a testament to Filipino ingenuity and something we should take immense pride in.

Anna Yacat

Anna Yacat’s art is a fusion of color, texture, and storytelling. Her works often blend traditional painting techniques with bold, tactile elements, creating pieces that not only capture the eye but also invite the viewer to experience them physically and emotionally. She has exhibited her works not only within FVAA activities but also in various galleries and art spaces outside the association.

Panagbenga (Mixed media / Acrylic)

This bold and highly textured piece that resembles a large floral explosion or a blooming garden is a homage to the Panagbenga Festival also called the Baguio Flower Festival, a month-long annual flower occasion in Baguio city, Philippines. The petals or folds are made from FFP2 masks, giving the artwork a dynamic and almost sculptural quality. The colors range from deep blues and greens to bright pinks, oranges, and yellows, creating a sense of joyful chaos and beauty. It’s a mixed-media piece that combines both painting and three-dimensional elements, making it pop out from the canvas.

Panakot (Acrylic)

This serene landscape painting depicts a golden wheat field under a dramatic sunset sky – is a real-life scene in many rural areas of the Philippines. The sky features warm, glowing hues of red, orange, and pink, contrasting beautifully with the golden field below. Scarecrows, Panakot in Filipino, stand in the field, adding a perception of narrative and scale. In the distance are trees enhancing the sense of peace and connection to nature. Though the style leans toward realism, the painting wholly captures the atmosphere and emotion along with fine details.

Siony Schaitl

Even as a child, Schaitl developed a deep interest in painting. Throughout her career as a nurse in Vienna, art remained a quiet passion — one that she could fully embrace only after her well-deserved retirement.

Since then, Schaitl has devoted herself wholeheartedly to painting, and she proudly presents her growing body of work to the public, sharing her unique blend of cultural influences, personal memories, and creative expression in exhibits in and outside Vienna including a solo exhibit last year at the Museum Laxenburg titled “Malerei von Asien bis Europa.”

Banaue Rice Terraces (Acrylic and Oil)

This painting beautifully captures the famous Banaue rice terraces of the Philippines. The landscape is lush and green, with the terraced fields cascading down the mountainside. In the foreground, two indigenous people are depicted — one standing proudly with a spear, wearing a traditional Ifugao tribal outfit and headpiece, while the other sits beside. The scene reflects both the beauty of the land and the deep cultural heritage of the indigenous communities who have lived and worked in these landscapes for generations. The textures and earthy tones convey a connection to nature, hard work, and pride in cultural identity.

Flower Boy (Acrylic and Oil)

This realist painting portrays a young boy by the sea, joyfully carrying a large freshly caught fish. The boy’s bright smile and dynamic pose give the painting a feel of life and excitement. Behind him, you can see traditional fishing boats, calm blue water, and a colorful sky — sunrise. The sandy shore is detailed with seashells and starfish, adding a charming detail. This piece highlights the importance of fishing in coastal communities and captures the energy, innocence, and resilience of youth living by the sea.

Rose Neumann

Neumann, affectionately known as “Mahal” (which means “love” in Filipino) by the members of FVAA, finds deep inspiration in the beauty of the world around her. She enjoys capturing the essence of her travels through her paintings, preserving the landscapes, cityscapes, and cultural moments that have left a lasting impression on her. Her artistic expression extends beyond just places—she also finds great joy in painting scenes from nature, including vibrant floral arrangements, parks, and serene waterscapes. Through her work, Neumann expresses her appreciation for the natural world, inviting viewers to share in her experiences and the emotions tied to each piece.

Cotton Tree (Acrylic and Soft Pastel)

The artwork features a vase with branches of a cotton tree, set against a warm, glowing sunset-like background. The branches have delicate white blossoms, while the colors transition from deep earth tones to golden hues, creating a tranquil atmosphere. The soft blending of pastels gives it a dreamy, textured effect.

Nature Night in Norway (Acrylic and Soft Pastel)

This painting showcases a somewhat dynamic abstract composition, where a rainbow-like reflection shimmers across a body of water. The bold use of colors—blending shades of blue, red, yellow, and green—creates the impression of movement, highlighting the fluidity and ever-changing nature of light and water. The brushstrokes and blending techniques give the impression of ripples, mirroring the way light dances on the water’s surface.

Norwegian art and literature often depict the Midnight Sun as a symbol of mystery, adventure, and resilience. In the Philippines, the golden hues of the sun, especially during sunrise and sunset, inspire many paintings, poetry, and folk songs, similar to how the Midnight Sun influences Nordic culture.

Sheila Feliciano

Feliciano or “Sheng” to many, is an artist who explores themes of human solidarity and interconnectedness. Her work emphasizes mutual respect for individual uniqueness, history, and a deep appreciation for our shared humanity. She has not only featured her art in diverse galleries but has also joined themed art competitions.

Ang Mukha ng Habi (Acrylic)

This painting features a stylized portrait of a woman set against a textured blue ocean-like background representing the archipelagic nature of the Philippines. Her face is composed of colorful, geometric patterns and woven textile motifs, representing the women of the three main islands of the Philippines. These women are key to preserving the weaving tradition.

Weaving the Threads Through Time (Acrylic)

In connection to the above painting, this artwork portrays two figures engaged in weaving. The older woman, dressed in traditional attire, appears to be passing down her knowledge to a younger generation. The deep blue background is adorned with golden swirls representing the continuity of cultural traditions. The intricate patterns on the clothing and fabric reinforce the theme of intergenerational connection and the preservation of heritage through craftsmanship.

Both paintings reflect Feliciano’s artistic focus on human connection, cultural identity, and the significance of tradition in modern times.

Alma Laurian-Pajer

Pajer is the only one in the group that uses pouring technique. She has always been artistic but like others in the group, kept busy by a career in the healthcare industry.

Hearts (Acrylic pouring)

Pajer’s artwork  features heart-shaped pieces mounted on white canvases. The designs are bright and textured, using a blend of bold colors. Some of the hearts have abstract, marbled patterns, while others contain recognizable elements, such as the colors and symbols of the Philippine flag.

The arrangement of the hearts, along with additional small abstract paintings, creates a visually impressive composition. The overall theme covers a celebration of love, culture, and artistic expression.

Mariah Florendo

The youngest exhibitor in the group, Florendo is currentyl studying architecture and works on her craft on the side during her free time. She has been an avid fan of animes since childhood, which has greatly inspired her to draw and illustrate.

Portrait-based digital/mixed media pieces

The framed artworks feature faces, with themes that explore identity, beauty, and cultural narratives. One piece has the words “Beauty Detox,” suggesting a commentary on beauty standards or a call to advocate for eco-friendly, cruelty-free, or non-toxic beauty products, promoting sustainability in the beauty industry.

Abstract geometric patterns 

Below the easel are framed illustrations with intricate patterns in blue and orange, resembling organic or nature-inspired designs. These are representations of movement, texture, or traditional weaving motifs.

Framed portraits (Gouache)

The smaller framed artworks depict stylized Filipina portraits of historical and cultural importance: Apo Whang-od (the “last” and oldest mambabatok : traditional Kalinga tattooist), Tandang Sora (the “Grand Woman of the Revolution”), Teresa Magbanua (the “Visayan Joan of Arc”), and Gabriela Silang (the “Joan of Arc of Ilocandia”). The color palette and expressive line work give them a distinct character.

Sketchbook/ink-based pattern drawings

A binder with detailed, flowing line work is also displayed, showing intricate, repetitive patterns. This suggests a focus on precision and detail influenced by traditional textile designs.

Aiah, donning a traditional Ifugao wraparound skirt or ampuyo adorned with weaving symbols like binittuwon (stars) and hinappiyo (shield), proudly showcases her connection to her heritage and artistry.

Randy Ilagan

Maria Clara Gown (Acrylic)

This semi-abstract portrait of a woman wearing a traditional Filipino outfit represents Filipinas of older days. She is elegantly holding an ornate fan that partially covers her face, adding an air of mystery and grace to the composition. The background and clothing feature a lively mix of bright colors, including green, pink, orange, and yellow, arranged in a patchwork-like design. The intricate patterns on the fan and clothing suggest cultural influences, likely inspired by Filipino traditions. Overall,  the painting blends folk art and modern expressionism, making the piece visually engaging.

Batang Pinoy and Luksong Baka (Coffee)

The two artworks displayed below were painted using coffee as a medium, giving them a sepia-toned, earthy aesthetic.

The left piece portrays a young Filipino boy (Batang Pinoy) dressed in traditional Katipunero clothing (red pants and scarf if colored, and a camisa de chino), symbolizing bravery and nationalism. The poem (also written by Ilagan) accompanying the painting tells us that despite his heroic attire, he is disappoined due to parental restrictions. The poem further tells of his attitude : A child who knows how to find ways to make himself happy even with simple toys. Indeed, this reflects a distinct Filipino trait—despite initial disappointment, one does not dwell on what is lacking but instead finds ways to make the most of what is available.

The right piece depicts the essence of the Filipino game Luksong Baka, a traditional childhood game that involves physical agility, teamwork, and excitement. In the game, one player assumes the role of the “baka” (cow), squatting or bending down, while the other participants take turns attempting to jump over the “baka” without touching them. As the game progresses, the height of the “baka” increases, making the challenge more difficult and requiring greater skill and coordination. The use of coffee as a medium enhances the warm, natural tones, creating a nostalgic and organic feel.

Lisa Ante-Pangan

Pangan is a multi-passionate artist whose work spans various artistic styles and themes, reflecting her deep connection to culture, nature, and creative exploration. Her artistic journey has led her to focus on three key areas: diaspora art, coffee painting, and flower embryo art (she is an IVF nurse by profession), each carrying its own unique meaning and expressive depth.

Her artworks have been displayed in various galleries, including a group exhibition alongside fellow artists at the Vienna Atelier of Traditional Art. In addition to exhibiting her work, she actively shares her expertise by conducting coffee painting workshops, welcoming enthusiasts of all backgrounds to explore this unique and organic medium.

The Golden Time (Gouache)

This imaginative painting depicting a lush, tropical landscape is Pangan’s memories during her recent visit to the Philippines brought to life on canvas. It depicts a serene river that flows through the center, surrounded by dense greenery, flowers, and rocks. A woman releasing flowers into the river symbolizes life’s simplicity and a deep appreciation for nature—a gesture often seen in the Philippines.

The presence of marine life, including a clownfish, sea turtle and other aquatic creatures, suggests a harmonious connection between land and water. Upon closer inspection, one can spot flip-flops—footwear commonly worn by Filipinos, especially during the summer months. The dramatic sky, with warm and cool hues blending together, adds an ethereal, dreamlike quality to the scene. This piece combines realism with fantasy, portraying themes of nature, environment, and cultural heritage.

To the Beach (Coffee)

The lower artwork is a sepia-toned painting created using coffee as a medium. It portrays a tranquil seaside setting with a traditional Filipino outrigger boat (banca) resting near the shore. A twisted, leafless tree stands prominently in the foreground, its gnarled branches reaching out toward the water. The calm waves and distant rocky formations create a feeling of peaceful solitude, painting nostalgia and a deep connection to the sea. The sepia tones give this piece a rustic and timeless appeal.

Cecilia Basierto

An avid painter who has exhibited with FVAA through the years, Cecilia Basierto’s art is distinguished by its vibrant, expressive, and deeply evocative cultural and emotional themes. Her work blends realism with stylization, creating compositions that engage the viewer on both an aesthetic and emotional level. Through her use of bold, dynamic colors and carefully chosen symbolic imagery, Basierto conveys narratives that celebrate identity, heritage, and human connection.

Drawing inspiration from traditional Filipino influences, as well as contemporary artistic movements, her paintings often depict scenes of familial love, community, and daily life, infused with warmth and reminiscence. She skillfully integrates patterns, rich textures, and expressive brushwork to enhance the depth and meaning of her pieces. Whether portraying intimate moments of motherhood, depictions of cultural traditions, or representations of universal themes such as unity and resilience, Basierto’s art resonates with a strong emotional core.

Banga/Tapayan (Acrylic)

A painting depicting a large brown clay pot against a backdrop of green bamboo stalks. The title is derived from Filipino terms referring to traditional earthenware jars used for storing water, rice, or fermented food.

In the Philippines, a banga or tapayan is more than just a vessel; it holds deep cultural and practical significance. These jars, crafted from clay and often unglazed, were traditionally used to keep water cool before modern refrigeration. The porous nature of the clay allows for slight evaporation, which helps maintain a lower temperature, making the water refreshing to drink. Additionally, tapayans were used for fermenting food such as bagoong (fermented fish or shrimps).

The presence of the banga in the artwork represent Filipino heritage and craftsmanship, as these pots were handmade by artisans in different regions, particularly in Ilocos, Kalinga, and Visayas. Bamboo is an important plant in Filipino culture, often associated with strength, adaptability, and harmony with nature.

Balete Tree (Acrylic)

This artwork shows a large, lush green tree with intertwined roots and trunk, set against a vibrant sunset sky blending pink, orange, and blue. Two figures in white dresses stand near the tree, which depicts an old Filipino tale of the White Lady.

One of the most famous versions of the White Lady is connected to the Balete Drive in Quezon City, where many have claimed to see a ghostly woman appearing in the middle of the road. In other regions, people believe the White Lady is a spirit trapped within a Balete tree, seeking revenge or justice.

King Bueno

Bueno is a photographer known for his active involvement in the Filipino community, capturing events, portraits, and cultural celebrations through his lens. Beyond photography, King also expresses his creativity through pencil drawing, where he focuses on intricate details and vivid imagery. Recently, he has begun exploring painting, adding color and texture to his artistic repertoire, expanding his passion for visual storytelling.

Sa Aming Nayon 1 (Watercolor)
This piece depicts a typical Philippine farm scene, showing a woman surrounded by fruits and livestock. The colors are vibrant, and the style leans toward realism with a touch of folk art influence. It captures the essence of rural or community life, depicting the culture and livelihood of Filipino farm dwellers.

Mulat I (Acrylic)
This abstract portrait in a cubism-inspired style features a female face, fragmented into bold, geometric shapes filled with bright colors like red, yellow, blue, and green. The expression is strong and emotional, giving the piece a modern and contemporary feel. Mu

Mulat II (Acrylic)
Another colorful portrait, this one also uses a cubist approach but with a slightly different mood. It has a similar fragmented style, but the facial features are softer and more flowing. The color palette, hues representing the Philippine flag, is equally bold, creating a lively and expressive piece.

Sa Aming Nayon II (Watercolor)
This piece returns to a more traditional scene, showing a rural setting with a woman sitting among animals, fruits, and greenery. It highlights the beauty of countryside life, with bright, cheerful colors and a focus on nature and agriculture.

Marie Khan

Khan’s love for painting was something that had to take a backseat as life led her down the paths of writing and photography. Though her passion for colors and brushstrokes never truly left her, it quietly lingered in the background while her creative energy found new outlets through storytelling and capturing moments behind the lens.

Back in the day, she would occasionally sit down with her children, paintbrush in hand, and create playful pieces together — a mix of imagination, laughter, and the simple joy of creating without rules. Those sessions were more about bonding than artistry, but they kept her connection to painting alive, even if only faintly.

Into the Blue (Mixed Media Acrylic)

This painting inspired by snorkeling through the waters of the Palawan island Dimakya, features a brightly colored sailboat with a multicolored sail set against a deep blue sky and ocean. The scene captures a tropical paradise, with lush palm trees on a sandy shore – which could be seen in many islands of the Philippines.

In the foreground, a sea turtle is making its way along the shoreline, half in the shallow, crystal-clear waters and half on the warm sand. The painting uses vivid blues for the water and sky, while warm tones in the sand and green hues from the palm trees provide a balanced tropical aesthetic. The piece conveys tranquility and adventure, embodying the beauty of Palawan’s seascapes and marine life.

Kim Navarro

Navarro, a passionate painting hobbyist, brings nature to life through the strokes of acrylic paint, capturing its beauty with deep appreciation and artistry. As a self-motivated artist, Kim embraces painting as a form of creative expression and relaxation. His dedication to the craft is evident in his attention to detail and ability to convey mood and atmosphere through color and composition. Whether painting for personal fulfillment or sharing his art with others, Navarro’s work reflects passion and a love for the scenery that inspires him.

Seashore (Acrylic)

This acrylic painting titled Seashore, is a serene and atmospheric depiction of a coastal landscape inspired by the Philippines. The artwork features a tranquil shoreline with a small wooden boat resting near the water’s edge, giving a peaceful and reflective mood.

The background showcases a distant mountain range enveloped in mist, with a blend of soft blues and greens creating a dreamy horizon. The sky transitions from a muted golden hue to a cooler blue, suggesting either dawn or dusk. Gentle waves roll towards the shore, their motion captured with expressive brushstrokes, adding depth and movement to the composition.

Tall reeds and coastal vegetation frame the scene, painted in earthy browns and greens, adding a natural and rustic feel.

The textured brushwork and harmonious color palette make this painting a beautiful representation of a peaceful seashore, drawing likeness from the natural beauty of the Philippines.

A Supportive Community

The event was made even more special by the presence of art enthusiasts, members of the diplomatic community, and supporters of Filipino culture, all of whom came together to appreciate and celebrate the talents of the featured artists. Their enthusiasm and encouragement reaffirmed the importance of art in fostering cultural understanding and unity.

A heartfelt thank you to the Philippine Embassy in Austria for making this event possible, and to everyone who attended and supported this meaningful celebration of Filipino artistry. Your presence and appreciation make a difference in promoting and preserving the rich artistic heritage of the Philippines. Here’s to more opportunities to showcase the creativity and passion of Filipino artists around the world! Maraming Salamat po!

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