Curated by Pia Mercado "The decision to hold and curate this exhibition of 'Mother and Child: Reimagined and Recast by 40 Contemporary Artists', came effortlessly to me. I chose artists with whom I have a personal and professional connection with, artists whose works I am intimately familiar with. Viewers of this exhibition will get a chance to appreciate a diverse range of art from abstract, figurative, pop, surrealism, impressionism, sculpture, and even photography. This show is an avenue for these artists to showcase their individual styles while beautifully and expressively capturing the theme. It's a testament to the power and beauty of art that so many different styles and approaches can all contribute to such a powerful and cohesive display. I cannot emphasize enough how proud I am to have established a rapport with all of these artists for this show. As we all know, the theme of 'Mother and Child' is universally relatable, so it did not take long for them to commit to being a part of it. Despite my relative lack of experience as a curator, working with all 40 of these artists has been quite a ride. I have learned things that I normally wouldn't have if I weren't the show's curator. For one, while we strive to run a smooth show by adhering to deadlines and managing logistics, we are actually dealing with 40 distinct souls, personalities, and stories and this is not a purely transactional process. Artists are not mere art-producing factories, and I have developed compassion to understand and adjust to each artist's individual circumstances. Neil Carandang "Dadamba" JEFFREY SISICAN "Mother Nature and Child" Mixed Media on Canvas The role of a curator goes beyond conception, selection, and the hanging of the works. I have gotten to know some of these artists even better, learning about their current projects and where they are headed next. I have also had discussions about some of their struggles, both as an artist and as a human being. While technology and delivery services have made the art world more accessible, it's important to remember the human factor involved in creating art and putting on exhibitions. It was so heartwarming to be able to see and interact with other artists face to face after months or even years of just staying in touch online due to the pandemic. This exhibition, like most, is not meant to be a one-way street. The artists learn from their audience while the audience learns from the artists. The curator learns from the artists, the artists learn from the curator as well. It’s a cycle that can keep going endlessly, and if you agree to this, even just the slightest, then the show has served its purpose. Thank you all for being a part of this journey. This exhibition is not just about me or the artists involved, it's about all of us. We all contribute to the art world in our own way, and I am grateful to have shared this experience with you." -Pia Mercado RA TIJING "The BlackSheep" Acrylic on Canvas JOSEPH ONG "Mom / Wow" Mixed Media on Canvas JUN ESCARIO "Mother and Child" Abaca on Canvas NEIL FELIPP "Mother & Child Series 01" Hand-sculpted brass sculpture, plated in 24K gold MARK MASA "Sa Piling Ni Nanay" Mixed Media On Canvas "Having spent a considerable amount of time in the art world, I felt compelled to curate the Mother and Child exhibition and collaborate with 40 different artists, even though I am not yet a mother myself. My interpretation of the theme is rooted in my role as a mentor to these artists, in many ways acting as a "mother figure" in their careers. Watching them grow and develop their skills has been incredibly fulfilling, and I wanted to create a platform that celebrated their talents and showcased their unique perspectives. Therefore, this exhibition is my personal interpretation of the theme, a reflection of my deep respect for the artists I have worked with and my belief in the transformative power of art. The artworks featured in this exhibition are not the traditional interpretations of Mother and Child paintings that one might expect. Rather, they represent the unique and diverse perspectives of the contemporary artists that Qube Gallery has had the pleasure of working with over the years. These artists have brought their own experiences, emotions, and creative impulses to bear on the theme, resulting in a fascinating and thought-provoking collection of artworks." - Pia Mercado Mother and Child: Reimagined and Recast by 40 Contemporary Artists 11 May 2023, Qube Gallery Crossroads Banilad This exhibition features the interpretation of over 40 artists and photographers handpicked by one of our directors, Pia Mercado, wearing the hat of a curator for the show. Participating Artists: Alee Garibay Alyssa Selanova Andre Chan Arlene Donaire Belle Maurice Boy Kiamko Budoy Marabiles Carmen Araneta Ceasar Azanza Christian Villanueva Dani Yu Distort Monsters Dondi Joseph Gabi Nazareno Geovanni Abing Golda King Greys Lockheart Hersley Casero Ivy Marie Apa Jan Sunday Jan Michael Tauro Jay Jore Jean Govinda Jeffrey Sisican John Villoria Jose Mari Picornell Joseph Ong Jun Escario Jjawzip Ingking Karina Broce Kean Larrazabal Les Amacio Lhee Taneo Mark Masa Mijan Jumalon Neil Carandang Neil Felipp Nicole Asares OJ Hofer RA Tijing Red Genotiva Ronyel Compra Soika Vomiter Thom Jopson Uzi Emperado Xandro Romualdez

A Photo Exhibit by Ennuh Tiu KILUSAN, a creative collaboration between FaDAL designers and KMC Solutions, is a photo exhibit that showcases the unique and diverse creations of Filipino fashion and art. From May 10-24, visitors have the opportunity to experience the intersection of fashion and art and the collaborative process behind the exhibit. The exhibit is powered by Aputure Philippines, who provided the high-quality lighting equipment that helped bring the photographs to life. As a fashion photographer, developing a signature style is crucial in establishing oneself in the industry. It takes years of creative experimentation, exposure to different types of work and people, and a willingness to take risks and try new things. However, even established photographers are constantly learning and seeking inspiration from different sources. One of the most challenging parts of developing a signature style is figuring out what you want to achieve visually and then learning to apply it in your work. It's crucial to stick to who you are and what you want, and to try to put your own spin on any influences you draw from. It's also important to be adaptable and have a backup plan in case something goes wrong during a shoot. When selecting final images for a project, it's important to consider the project's purpose and audience. For fashion photography, it's important to highlight the expertise of other creative collaborators, such as makeup artists, hairstylists, and designers. For aspiring fashion photographers, the advice is to find inspiration, stay curious, and train your eye. Experimentation is key to developing a unique style and taking risks can lead to great rewards. It's also important to share knowledge with others and build a community of like-minded people. KILUSAN is a celebration of Filipino fashion and art, a visual testament to the hard work and creative spirit of everyone involved in the project. It's an opportunity to experience the intersection of fashion and art and to be inspired by the creativity and collaboration behind it.

When it comes to modeling and influencing, it takes more than just a pretty face to make an impact in the industry. For some, it’s about using their platform to advocate for important causes and promote positive change in their communities. This is the case for young model and influencer, Liam Labrooy. How did you first get into modeling and influencing, and what drew you to these industries? Starting from a young age, I loved taking photos and dressing up. I loved expressing myself through my clothing choices and loved finding creative ways to present that through photos. Only recently did I start to take it more seriously as a real job. I started out modeling for my friends and doing the occasional test shoot but it was only when I was invited to walk in last years BYS Fashion Week did I realize I wanted to take things more seriously. Shoutout to Kyle (@cruz__kyle) of Cruz Manila (@cruz.mnl) and RJ (@rjsantos) of Randolph Clothing (@randolfclothing) for giving me a chance! As a model and influencer, Liam uses his platform to advocate for causes and raise awareness about important issues. He grew up in Boracay and frequently goes back and forth to help out with his family's businesses. Liam created a brand called WDYGYS (Where Did You Get Your Shit) with his friend Favour Ajah, and they are in the process of creating products locally sourced from Boracay. Liam wants to highlight and support the creative people on the island by organizing relief projects for young locals and feeding programs to help the local community. Although he doesn't feel the need to post about these things on social media, Liam uses his influence to help his community in any way he can. How do you balance your personal brand and identity with the expectations and demands of the modeling and influencing industries? I’ve actually struggled with this a little. I know that I don’t fit under the typical model or influencer in the Philippines and I feel like I have definitely lost some work or opportunities cause I look and act differently. But I’ve learned to trust the process and to believe in myself. I love what I do and the content and work I produce and I just need to believe that other people will see that and recognize it one day! Can you talk about a specific campaign or collaboration that you're particularly proud of, and what made it meaningful to you? I recently did a campaign with Vision Express and it was my first time seeing myself in a store! Crazy to think I was shopping in the store just a year prior. The fact that the team trusted me to have my face plastered all over their social media and stores is amazing haha. When it comes to navigating the potential pressures or challenges of social media and online visibility as an influencer and public figure, Liam used to care so much about what he posted and what people thought of his content. Now, he posts what he wants in real-time without filtering or editing. Liam's page is for him, and if you don't like what he posts, then unfollow him. Social media is fun for him, and he wants to keep it that way without overthinking it. How do you navigate the potential pressures or challenges of social media and online visibility as an influencer and public figure? I used to care so much about what I posted and what people thought of my content and now I just merely post what I want. My friends usually make fun of me cause usually I post in real time haha. Once I take content, I usually post 1 min after without filtering or editing! My page is for me and if you don’t like what I post just unfollow me. Social media is fun for me and I want to keep it that way; I would hate to overthink it. What role do you see models and influencers playing in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the fashion and beauty industries? It’s nice to see more diversity in the industry. I think we have a lot more to do to create more inclusivity but I like that brands are slowly trying to diversify. I think rather than just waiting for brands to reach out, I think it is also important to put yourself out there and get noticed! What advice do you have for other young people who aspire to enter the modeling or influencing industries? Be yourself, know your brand and just keep at it. Not everyone is going to believe in yourself but keep at it and people will see your talent eventually. I also love collaborating with different artists. Test shoots are always fun cause there are no limits. You also get to work with different people in the industry! Whether that be photographers, HMUAs, and fellow models/content creators!

What do you think is Asia's major role in Art? Asia has a diverse culture and rich history reflected in our Art. It has many countries that are different from one another, and with that, I think Asian art can offer endless experiences and inspiration to people worldwide. Also, with our art, you can immerse in the culture, lifestyle, history, and vibrant landscapes, which are different from western art. Describe the art scene in the Philippines. Where I am from, the art scene is very much alive. When you visit Cebu, art is evident even on the streets. We also have painting exhibits, galleries, and organizations where emerging artists can join, interact and share ideas. Being in a club also helped when I first started with digital art. It gave me ideas about suitable devices, the programs to use, where to land clients, etc. Social Media also plays a significant role in showcasing our artwork. I've connected with artists across the Philippines and met clients locally and internationally. Where is a good place to seek art inspiration in your country? The Philippines has different cultures, languages, food, and scenery. Every region is somehow different. You can find inspiration anywhere. But for me, since I love illustrating people and fashion, Cebu is a great place. It is a bustling city. The people are trendy, excellent art community and you can easily immerse yourself in nature, you can go up in the mountains and the sea just a few hour's drive from the city. But I also get inspired whenever I travel, Like when I went to Siargao, I got inspired by its chill and vibrant summer vibe lifestyle. That made me draw many women on surfboards, bikinis, and beaches. I am Sybil Viviene Mulig-Emphasis, 30 years of age and currently based in Cebu, Philippines. I am a Licensed Civil Engineer, but I fell in love with art and fashion. I did not study any formal art classes. I only did summer art classes when I was a kid, so that was the closest art education that I had, everything else is from youtube, books, and self-taught. 5. Tell us how did you get into Digital Art. When did your interest in painting start? My interest in art and painting started very early in my childhood. I remember I would fill my notebooks with sketches of women and clothes. When my mother noticed my interest, she enrolled me every summer in an informal art class, where I learned the basics. When I went to college, and it was time for me to choose a career path, Fine arts or fashion-related courses were not on the cards. Firstly because it is expensive, Secondly, my mother was sick at the time, so money was tight, and thirdly, Art related courses were frowned upon because they said: "it will not generate money." So, the good choice was to stay in my hometown and study civil engineering. Time went on, and I became a fully pledged civil engineer, but my love for art and fashion is still there. So I ended up quitting my corporate job and started illustrating. It was not I got on Digital art because, at the time, it was convenient, and I could land clients more easily. And from then on, there was no turning back. How will you describe your style in illustration? My illustrations are relatively simple. It is not very detailed and is kind of messy. It's a minimalist style with only a simple background, but I also love a splash of bold colors on the clothes. I don't consciously think about what my art style would be. I just let the art flow and do this magic. I also want to try out different styles and more complex art in colors and composition in the future so I can tell a better story. Tell us more about your exhibition – what's the story / inspiration behind this? These illustrations are a homage to the vibrant collections of major fashion houses.It is Inspired by its elaborate designs and bold colors. Two of these illustrations feature filipino fashion influencers and a design from a filipina fashion designer, Cheetah Rivera. I also love to celebrate filipino fashion in my illustrations to showcase how philippine fashion can compete on the world stage. Did you experiment or had a new approach to this particular artwork set? I experimented with the color palettes and how I can emphasize the colors and details of the clothes more. I also made the poses more dramatic than the reference photos. What's next for you? Any exciting plans for the future? After being on hiatus for a year because I gave birth to my son, I will be opening my online shop soon and hopefully will be able to launch my youtube channel next year as well. I will be offering a different kind of merch and the exciting part is that I will be making it in the comfort of my home. Also, I will be venturing into traditional art more and event illustration and doing live paintings on-site. I'm sure it will be fun! 9. What's your ultimate goal as an artist? The goal is to work with global brands, and my art will be widely recognized across the creative scene. But what keeps me going every day is that I wish my art could bring happiness to others. I hope it is something they can relate to, or feel empowered and inspired by. Just making a difference one art at a time. And with that, I could reach my ultmate goal. What is your motto in life? There is this quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson that says "what lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us". This quote is very powerful because often when I feel down, it gives me a little courage to try again and reminds me that I have the potential within me to reach my goals. I have to work on it a little harder and be braver; the rest are just tiny matters. Where can people contact you or see your work? You can see my works on my Instagram @sviviene.art or send me an email at vivienemulig@gmail.com;'

Tell us about yourself and your brand ( tiediet). Elevating tie-dye involves taking an old art form and turning it into something new and modern. This can be done by experimenting with different color combinations, pattern designs, and fabric materials. Collaborating with other artists allows me to get exciting ideas to be shared and explored. This can include combining tie-dye with other forms of art, such as painting, embroidery, or photography. Finally, creating magic with colors can involve manipulating the colors of the fabric to create a unique and one-of-a-kind look. This could include using fabric paints, bleaching, or dip-dyeing to achieve a desired outcome. Any childhood memory related to your early beginnings of being an artist? Weirdly Pokémon resonated with me. So I’d always be fascinated with all the new Pokémon’s coming out.I’d always try to collect them all, and I’d love to battle with my friends. I’d also watch the episodes, movies and play the games. It was a big part of my childhood and I’m still playing it to this day. It’s a great way to bond with friends and battle against each other. How would you describe your style? Gemini fairy with a little bit of grunge Where do you seek inspiration? Nature, food, and all the art around me. Tell us more about your brand, where it is started? It started with me customizing ukay pieces in 2013. I had a IG thrift shop for college. That gave me the platform to be creative with making old pieces into new ones. From there, I started to make my own designs and sell them.I started to collaborate with other local designers, manufacturers, and artisans to create limited edition pieces. My designs have been featured in several fashion shows and magazines, and I have been able to grow my brand and create a loyal customer base. I am currently working on launching my own clothing line, with a focus on sustainable fashion. I believe that fashion should be accessible and affordable for everyone, and I strive to create unique designs that are made with quality materials and attention to detail. I am passionate about creating pieces that will last and be loved for years to come. Do you have any particular favorite collection? No. I haven’t made my favorite collection yet. What makes you do clothing brand? what urges you? Honestly my angels. Haha. I’m not kidding! Define art ( what is art for you for this generation ) Art is an expression in different forms. You can use it to heal. You can unleash your frustrations and pain. You’re basically using art as an expression of your current state. So Art for me is an essential key to unlocking my full potential as a creative. To you, what makes a good artist at this time and age? Consistent and nonconformist artists. Someone who is able to remain true to their own personal vision and create compelling and original works that stand out from the rest. Someone who is able to stay relevant and current, while also staying true to their core values and beliefs. Whats your personal motto in life? Love and gratitude What is next for you? Any exciting projects, new collection? Fashion Fundraiser with The Company Cebu this Feb Where to contact you or where can people see and buy your clothes? IG @tiediet

My name is Michael Oliver Love, I’m based in Cape Town, South Africa. I am a self-taught photographer with an educational background in English literature & gender studies. I have always been in love with fashion editorials since a young age. Would love to pick up the latest Glamour or Marie Claire from the local newsstand and flip to see what beautiful images were shot that month. It wasn’t till I was about 17 that I realized that I could also try my luck at taking beautiful images if I really wanted to. So I picked up a camera and started shooting my friends and just grew from there. These days my photography focuses on men, looking into deconstructing modern masculinity and presenting a more gentle, soft, and vulnerable side to my models. I am obsessed with the beige, brown, and sandy color palette which I was very inspired by for this shoot. From the leather to the wood panel floors and the boy's skin, it was just a dream come true. Photography and Styling by Michael Oliver Love Models: Reatile Mohlaoli Okechukwu Ojukwu Newton Igwele

Featuring Kamilla https://www.instagram.com/gintong.bathala/ Photo by Resbon Despi https://www.instagram.com/resbondespi/

Photography: Valeur Imagery by Muke Gonzaga and John Kirby Do Model: Alfio Schmidt Styling by Ryan Hinayhinay Swimwear undies by Cyrix Muyco Location: Boracay Philippines

Words by: Mariel Abanes “I said yes right away.” It was a no-brainer for Jake Cuenca, TV and movie actor, to return to the theater stage for the second time around, following his debut success in the 2018 project “Lungs”. More so for such an unconventional play bringing life to a provocative, non-typical character that represents a “stereotypical male”, as he describes it. “I attract these kinds of projects because I want to do and be part of these things. Parang not the typical, not your cup of tea—the alternative choice,” he shares on accepting the role of Pete, a pornstar, for V-Roll Media Ventures’ upcoming theatrical production “DickTalk”. After portraying a closeted gay in his most recent film “My Father, Myself”, the actor will momentarily step out of the screen to make a mark again on the theater stage. The play, inspired by the 1996 piece “Vagina Monologues”, flips the coin for this local all-male version that promises to roll out a narrative normalizing how people look and accept the concept of the male genitalia. Dubbed as a “dickstravaganza”, it celebrates the significance of males’ manhood in everyday life. Jake, along with fellow cast members Mikoy Morales, Gold Aceron, Archie Adamos, and Nil Nodalo, are in for a ride as they present five Filipino characters and their hitch that comes with having a “manhood” to front. Jake As Pete, Pete As Jake We are used to seeing this heartthrob on our big and small screens, but it was only in 2018 when he first stepped foot on the theater stage that we saw his acting flair in plays. Fast forward to five years later, he makes his comeback for another challenging concept—where he dares himself to bare it all. While his character is a pornstar, he believes that it isn’t very far from what he does as a star who’s always in the spotlight. Somehow, he spills, this role is a relatable one as they share a common expression. “As an artist, I can equate what he goes through-- about certain insecurities and certain things—and what's going through in his career with a facet or phase of mine,” Jake reveals. Pete, proud of his sexuality and the lifestyle that comes with it, wears toxic masculinity on his sleeve. And while he may think of it as an advantage in such a male-dominated society, this exactly is where he will fall short. Jake muses, “It’s a stereotypical thing if you look at it from the outside. But as his story unravels, you see na maaawa ka sa kanya, because he doesn't know any better.” After reading through the script, the actor is stirred with excitement as rehearsals come into play. Of course, the story will tackle the righteousness and faults of men as humans with the male genitalia, but it aims to peel more of the layers beyond the decisions caused by the struck ego of a dick-tating (pun intended) part of a man’s anatomy. He remembers the era when male toxicity is at its height and applies that kind of mindset to play Pete. Thus, personifying a role founded on “what they are accustomed to or they're conditioned with,” the thespian says. “It's what I'm trying to inject in my character.” After all, he sees the theater stage as a platform for voicing out people’s truths. “We live in a time na people are so very careful with what they say and being judged. But here, we don't have to be censored. We can actually speak things out. A lot of people will relate to the material,” Jake notes. Throughout its two-hour run, the audience will see how Pete is a lovable character in his own right, just like he did. “I’m sure it’s gonna be very memorable,” Jake adds. A Stage Actor If you ask Jake why he gravitates towards the theater stage, it’s the unique challenge it offers that gets him on his toes. Maintaining his “newbie” status in this field, the artist insists that he still has a lot to show. “It's something that I need to prove not only to the audience, but also to myself as an actor.” It’s also a different kind of high when he acts in the play, putting it as “having that full control as an actor”. Being on the driver’s seat, having that command on the character everytime the spotlight is on, offers that fulfillment that movies or teleseryes fail to suffice. “Once you experience it, you realize that it's an actor's medium. For me, I get to go outside of my comfort zone and conquer my fears,” he asserts. He continues. “That’s why I keep going back to it, kasi it's always very humbling; it’s always the best teacher. Every time I go back to theater, I feel like I've unlocked something with myself. Parang wala na akong reluctancy.” It’s this affection towards this new craft that rejuvenates him, something he knows he should get more of. Starting 2023 with a bang through this production, it seems like he won’t leave even after the “DickTalk” curtains close. Following this project, Jake had already said yes to another stage play—so we’ll all see him put his act together this coming July. Indeed, it’s a new era for the actor, and we’re all ready to embrace “Jake, The Thespian” in all his impressive glory. Producer: Matt Pingkian and Stephen Capuchino Photo: Stephen Capuchino @stephencapuchino using TTArtisan 35mm f1.4 for Sony E-Mount Systems @ttartisanofficial Art Direction: Jobo Nacpil @jobonacpil Grooming: Jia Enciso Catu @jiagorgeous

What is Art for you? Art - is the meaning of my life. It is a way to express my style, mood and ambitions. What makes a good artist in this generation? Making people feel something, when they look at their work. A nice piece of art can bring you good memories, inspire you to try new projects, and raise your spirit. Basic info (name, age, where are you based, school or photography training, awards and achievements or anything related to photography etc..) Nastya Polehyna. Based in Odessa, Ukraine I am self taught My achievements, well: twice I became the best photographer in competition in Odessa. And lots of random people in the Internet write me how they like my editorials and thank me for the inspiration (that's the most pleasant part) Tell us how you got into photography. When did your interest in photography start? I adored fashion from early childhood. I was blogging fashion editorials for a while and as I am very ambitious - I decided to make photographs by myself. How will you describe your style in photography? I`m trying to stand out, to be original. I don't show the beauty of people - that is boring, I express my creativity by my shoots. About your editorial – what’s the story behind this? I wanted to make some huge project to test my organization skills. As usual - I made a clear plan of posing and I felt like a conductor of a small orchestra during the shooting. That feeling is amazing. What was the creative process in coming up with these images? I looked through lots of editorials on Pinterest to realize - what exactly I want to get. I think that is the most important part - an original photo is a well - organized one :) Anything interesting or memorable about the shoot and did you experiment or had a new approach on this particular shoot? I learned how to find a replacement for a model at the last minute and to style the group shoot by the clothes in my wardrobe) And it was the first shot - when I was so impressed by the beauty of models - that I forgot how to breathe sometimes :) What's next for you? Any exciting plans in the future? I want to work on top model agencies and to open a Youtube channel dedicated to fashion. What is your motto in life? Nothing is original (from my favorite book by A.Kleon) Where can people contact you or see your works? My instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polehynastya/ My group: https://new.vk.com/polehynaphotography Social media page: https://new.vk.com/polehynastya

Photography by Diego Harmuch (@iamdiegocristiano) and Nina Eilisa (@itsninaeilisa) Hair and Makeup by Sara Yunis (@sara.ymakeup) and Karima Gilmanova @kareema_mua Models: Sabrina De Mello (@sabrina.demello) & Anita (@annienayyar) Styled by Faheem Ismail (@faheemfj) Creative direction by Sai Ferrera (@saiferrera) Clothes by: ( @cece.chic )

Jad Solito winning piece for WISDOM Eco-Warrior Competition held last December 8 at the Hilton Hotel Manila. INAUL: a representation of Dream weavers to the world Weaving plays a massive role in promoting the identity, culture, and arts of the Philippines. Inaul is an art of weaving of the Maguindanao people. Its luxurious texture is a blend of silk and gold threads infused into the pure cotton threads and woven in complicated techniques. This design was a fusion of cultural filipiniana and maguindanaoan architecture presented in a modern approach. The details signify the strength of the culture as it stands firm with pride, dignity and identity. It is a unifying factor that binds culture and communities. Together, it is the embodiment of not only the maguindanaoan people but of the Philippines as a whole. With the use of recyclable plastic bottles to add details, it sends a simple but significant message “trash to fashion” “throwing to upcyling” executed in sustainable way and pushing boundaries of fashion for the future. Together, let us celebrate our heritage and keep it alive for generations to come. I am Jad Solito, a proud filipino designer. And this is my Art. IG: https://www.instagram.com/findingdarrel/