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Art Fair Philippines 2016

February 18, 2016

By Danica Eliana Ferino

March 11^th, 2016

Art Fair Philippines has been a highlight of my February since last year. The organizers convert two floors of the Link Carpark into one enormous gallery featuring the best in the Philippine contemporary art. That’s about 6,374 square meters of inspiration and curiosities!

The following photos are some of the interesting pieces at the fair.

YOD x Kogure

A collaboration of two Japan-based galleries.

Write your story here. (Optional)

“Cuckoo Sanctuary” by Archivo 1984 Gallery

Art installation by Jetro Vin Rafael, owner of the quirky Van Gogh Is Bipolar restaurant in Quezon City.

He sends the following inspiring message on his exhibit:

“For the past 37 years of my life, I never thought that I am given this rare opportunity to share my realm with the world, Being bipolar is no longer a big deal for me. I even think I am more of a schizo or maybe a multiple-personality, and it doesn’t matter anymore. These are just labels created by the world, and the most important lesson I’ve learned is that I love and accept who I am, celebrating all of my greatness and imperfections. And yes, I made a choice (that) as long as I breathe, I believe that I am part of something beautiful. I even now believe that the monsters are part of something beautiful. And so are you.”

The art installation mimics the atmosphere of his home sans the dim lighting. Pretty much a wonderland sort of experience.

“Infinity Series” by Mark Justiniani

A play on the senses. A pit of mirrors, a never-ending tunnel, an eerie cathedral, and that hell of paperworks just like the requests for quotations in Maxicare…

"His Only Son" by Daniel Dela Cruz

Step into the religious macabre.

“In Search of Meaning” by Pam Yan Santos

The thing with the art fair is that you’d have to spend at least three hours to check all the pieces on display. You’d get tired from just walking around the first floor of the exhibit. And that’s why I think everyone’s grateful for this installation - finally a place to sit down and relax! The grass is made of fabric. You’re surrounded with letters. It’s a good place to think or maybe just rest or shoot.