The cultural evening showcased six magnificent creations from the country’s top artists like Vincent Manansala, Jose Joya, Federico Alcuaz, Lor Calma, Arturo Luz and Fernando Zobel. Each of the pieces was selected by Ayala Museum director Dr. Florina Baker to communicate specific traits as dynamism ("Whirr" by Manansala), presence ("Space Transfiguration" by Joya), power ("Transformation" by Calma), elegance ("Tanto Monta" by Zobel), smoothness ("Ferro#1" by Luz) and substance ("Thirteen Years End, Czechoslovakia" by Alcuaz).
Baker then unveiled the seventh masterpiece, the new BMW 7 Series, which sums up the characteristics of the six other obras. "As with the creation of art works, the new BMW 7 Series is the result of a creative, form-finding process, giving birth to a form that expresses dynamism and presence," said Baker.
"The shape of the new 7 series is not a traditional wedge, but rather a three-dimensional masterwork that integrates the highest quality material with the latest technological features: luxury, quality, and innovation – the hallmarks of a true masterwork of art," Baker added.
Consul General Cecilia Rebong, assisted by Philippine Center GM Gavino Abaya, cut the ribbon and welcomed the guests, who were in a festive mood after the long winter. The two Filipino figurative painters, clad in native barongs, eagerly presented their works to the enthusiastic crowd composed of patrons from the Filipino-American community in New York and a very supportive group of Upsilonians and Sigma Deltans from the East Coast.
Lily Gamboa O’Boyle, with her son Alvi Mendoza, was spotted proudly showing her brother Manuel’s paintings to relatives and friends. Gamboa’s colorful and evocative paintings of Philippine scenes drew sighs of happy recollections, while Carreon’s "Dreamscapes" elicited quiet, meditative reflections.
Congratulations for the successful exhibit and keep on showcasing Filipino artistry to the world!