Celebrating both the 126th anniversary of Philippine Independence and five decades of diplomatic relations between the UAE and the Philippines, Fil Arts Guild presented an Art Exhibition during Kalayaan 2024. Held on June 9th at the Dubai World Trade Center, the exhibition featured 25 Filipino artists. Each artist brought their unique vision to the theme “Shaping Tomorrow: 50 Years of Shared Stories,” captivating the audience with the rich tapestry of Filipino creativity.
The 25 artworks were the result of a full-scale art competition for Filipino artists in the UAE. Their evocative works resonated deeply with audiences, adding depth to the Kalayaan exhibition. The top three artists were recognized on stage by Josie Conlu Community Champion, Elena C. Cruz, Founder and CEO of Infinite Communities, and H.E. Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver. Ambassador of the Philippines to the United Arab Emirates.
First place was awarded to Faith Gaufo, a self-taught designer and project management professional who explores digital, acrylic, oil paint, and watercolor mediums. Nemar Sencil, a digital 3D artist and animator, secured second place. Kharen Tacmo, a professional artist, mentor, and alumna of the Milan Art Institute, who specializes in symbolic portrayals of women and animals, won third place.
The remaining talented artists included Angel Domantay, Bree Castillo, Carl Bryan Saldivar, Cyril Anne Sinay, Emilia Castus, Jason Gil Burgos, Jeffrey Erencio, Joey Peredo Sabater, John Paul Selencio, JR Scribble, Ma. Louise Lim, Marlon Tuyco, Nelia Fabia, Racel Canaria, Rex Pangilinan, Reynaldo Tambong, Rhianne Ghernelle Intal Bada, Rosela Sarmiento, Ryan Murao, Ryan Rivera, Tamer Basel Suyat Karam and Willie V. Taladro Ferrari.
The one-day event was a vibrant blend of entertainment, culture, and community spirit. A kid’s workshop led by Nelia Fabia allowed children to enjoy painting Philippine-themed drawings on canvases. Merchandise tables featured Ianagi by Ryan Murao and Scribble Art by JR Scribble, along with live charcoal painting by Marlon Tuyco, digital painting by Carl Bryan Saldivar, and live digital caricatures by Rosela Sarmiento.
FilArts Guild expressed gratitude for the unwavering support and generosity of Emirates Loves Philippines and Infinite Communities, now in their second year of participating in the Kalayaan celebration. FilArts Guild in the Emirates is a licensed art community specializing in exhibitions, wall murals, painting workshops, and commissioned artworks, proudly hosting multi-award-winning UAE-based artists.