UP Orchestra Plays at the CCP

The University of the Philippines Orchestra heralds the start of celebrations for the 100th anniversary of the UP College of Music in 2016 with a concert at 8 PM, September 1, 2011 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo. Billed Countdown to a Century, the concert will feature pianist Nita Abrogar-Quinto with the UP Orchestra with conductors Michi Martinez and Rodney Ambat.

The UP Orchestra was revitalized in 2003 by Dean Ramon Acoymo at the UP College of Music. It serves two purposes, that of a laboratory class for string and wind majors and as one of the University’s performing groups. The UP Orchestra has made significant contribution to the university by the uplifting the standard of training that students receive in orchestral performance studies. It gears itself towards developing more symphonic programs while striving to be the best training venue of the future professional orchestral musicians of the country. It has had many successful performances, some which have featured the country’s most distinguished artists.

The 65-strong UP Orchestra is under the shared directorship of Prof. Edna Marcil “Michi” Martinez and Prof. Rodney Ambat.

For the concert at the CCP, the UP Orchestra will perform two works by Beethoven, namely the Coriolan Overture and Symphony No. 1, under the baton of Prof. Rodney Ambat, in the first half of the program. Prof. Edna Marcil Martinez leads the Orchestra in the second half of the program feature Britten’s Simple Symphony for Strings, Abelardo’s Piano Concerto with Nita Abrogar-Quinto as soloist, and Antonino Buenaventura’s By the Hillside.

Countdown to a Century will raise funds for the UP College of Music Alumni Association (UPCMuAA) which promotes the development and training of young Filipino musicians. In particular, the concert is a fundraising effort for the UPCMuAA Students’ recital fund and the development of the UP Orchestra.

For tickets and information, please call the CCP Box Office at 832-3704, CCP Music Division at 832-2314 or Ticketworld at 891-9999.

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Necro Rites for National Artist Edith Tiempo in Dumaguete City

THE National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) pay homage to the late National Artist for Literature Edith Tiempo. Necrological Rites will be held at Dumaguete City on August 29, 2011, 9 a.m., at the Silliman Church and interment at the Dumaguete Memorial Park on the same day. The tribute by the artists community at the CCP will be announced. Tiempo passed away last August 21.

A poet, teacher, fictionist and literary critic, Edith Tiempo was one of the finest writers in English in the country. Her works were characterized by a remarkable fusion of style and substance, of craftsmanship and insight. Her poems were intricate verbal transfigurations of significant experiences as shown in her much anthologized pieces, “The Littlest Marmoset” and “Bonsai”. She was an influential tradition in Philippine literature in English, where Filipino sensibility was fully expressed as exemplified in her Abide, Joshua and Other Stories (1992) and His Native Coast (1979) which won the CCP Award for the Novel.

Together with her late husband Edilberto K. Tiempo, she founded and directed the Silliman National Writers Workshop in Dumaguete City, which until now, has trained and produced some of the country’s best creative writers in English. She was a recipient of several awards from the Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature and the Philippines Free Press literary contests and the Elizabeth Luce Moore Distinguished Asia Professor Award (1978) and has received grants and fellowships from Rockefeller Foundation, the Ford Foundation and the Asia Foundation. She was listed in the Princeton Encyclopedia of Poets and Poetics, the International Authors and Writers Who’s Who, (Cambridge,1977), the Contemporary Living Poets in the English Language (London) and the Marquis’ Who’s Who in the World (Philadelphia, 1998).

Edith Tiempo was conferred the National Artist Award for Literature in 1999. She is survived by son Maldon, daughter Rowena T. Torrevillas, son-in-law Lemuel and grandchildren.

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Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) 29th Season

September 9, 2011
PPO SEASON CONCERT I
“A HERO’S LIFE”

Olivier Ochanine, conductor
Renato Lucas, soloist
Saint-Saens, Camille - Bacchanale from Samson and Delilah
Elgar, Edward - Cello Concerto
Strauss, Richard - Ein Heldenleben

October 7, 2011
PPO SEASON CONCERT II
“MUSICAL LANDSCAPES”

Olivier Ochanine, conductor
Ariel Sta. Ana, clarinet
Revueltas, Silvestre - Sensemaya
Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Clarinet Concerto
Pena, Angel - Igorot Rhapsody
Respighi, Ottorino - Feste Romane

November 11, 2011
PPO SEASON CONCERT III
“JAE JOON LEE AND BUI CONG DUY”

Jae Joon Lee, conductor
Bui Cong Duy, violin
Brahms, Johannes - Academic Festival Overture
Bruch, Max - Violin Concerto
Berlioz, Hector- Symphonie Fantastique

December 16, 2011
PPO SEASON CONCERT IV
“ARIEL DECHOSA’S RETURN”

Olivier Ochanine, conductor
Ariel Dechosa, piano
Ravel, Maurice - Le Tombeau de Couperin
Beethoven, Ludwig van - Piano Concerto 4
Rachmaninoff, Sergei - Symphony No. 2


January 20, 2012
PPO SEASON CONCERT V
“THE INEXTINGUISHABLE”

Olivier Ochanine, conductor
Takahiro Ono, trombone
Dvorak, Antonin - Czech Suite
Rimsky-Korsakov, Nikolai - Trombone Concerto
Nielsen, Carl - Symphony No. 4 “Inextinguishable”

February 17, 2012
PPO SEASON CONCERT VI
“JAMES JUDD AND THE ITALIAN SYMPHONY”

James Judd, conductor
Vesa-Matti Leppanen, violin
Bernstein, Leonard - Overture to Candide
Beethoven, Ludwig van - Violin Concerto
Mendelssohn, Felix - Symphony No. 4 “Italian”

***Venue of James Judd and the Italian Symphony concert will be Philamlife Theater

March 16, 2012
PPO SEASON CONCERT VII
"Gerodias and Bruckner"

Olivier Ochanine, conductor
Rachel Gerodias, soprano
Arias, kundimans and more
Bruckner, Anton
Symphony No. 4 "Romantic"Buenaventura, Antonino - By the Hillside

April 20, 2012
PPO SEASON CONCERT VIII
“OCHANINE CONDUCTS THE RITE OF SPRING”

Olivier Ochanine, conductor
Sofya Gulyak, piano
Brahms, Johannes - Piano Concerto
Stravinsky - The Rite of Spring

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ART IS NOT A CRIME - An Online Art Exhibit

There are two functions of Art in society, one is to mirror all it's glory and beauty, the other is to mirror all it's grotesque misery. The former encourages it to surpass itself, the latter makes it look at itself in a new way that it may avoid decay.

Art is not a crime, those who stifle it are.

ART IS NOT A CRIME
An online art exhibit

http://artisnotacrime.tk/

Featuring the works of:
Marius Black | JL Burgos | Benjie Belgica | Rustom Casia | Xander Calceta | Jeff Carnay | Ceej Gomera | Sarah Geneblazo | Racquel de Loyola | J.Luna | Kim Oliveros | Kirby Roxas | Noel Pocot | Mark Villanueva | Louella Suque | Chen Breva | Paolo Castro | Menk Cruzat | Cherry Hilao | Irish Flores | Jehan Manansala | Niel Marcelino | Macoy Bacay | George Barrios | Janice Cortez | Leo Dilay | Dan Duran | Pepper Hernandez | Monique Laurel | Krisette Lacuesta | Diana Clara Mendoza | Cha "Cherry Red" Roque | Noel Jordan Racca | Jepren Solis


A Rezureccion Art Project exhibition

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NCCA Opens ManilArt 2011

The National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and Bonafide Art Galleries Organization (Bago) will open ManilArt 2011 on Aug. 24-27 at the NBC Tent in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

ManilArt 2011, the 3rd Philippine International Art Fair, is the country’s biggest gathering of galleries with diverse and vibrant art expositions.

“Viewers shall witness a groundbreaking launch—the simultaneous opening of various art exhibitions during gala night,” ManilArt 2011 director Delan Lopez Robillos said.

“Exhibitors will not simply be showcasing the works of artists, but each gallery shall be presenting a conceptualized art exhibit,” he added.

The maiden run of ManilArt in 2009 had a painting of a jeepney by Onib Olmedo as its banner piece, while 2010 bared Andres Barrioquinto’s “Crystal Gazer.”

This year, ManilArt is privileged to have the artistry of highly sought painter Elmer Borlongan with his obra “Batang Edsa.”

This year's fair features more than 300 represented artists and hundreds of artworks on display. ManilArt 2011 seeks to merge the visual arts with other disciplines.

Programs will include a modern-dance interpretation of Borlongan’s art by premier contemporary-dance maven and Dance Forum founder, Myra Beltran during the gala.

In conjunction with promoting Philippine art, the art fair’s goals are to compound visitorship and strengthen support from both local and foreign exhibitors.

A series of live sketching sessions will run every Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Mercato Centrale in Bonifacio Global City.

Artists will show how they perceive the same subject as they create their work from scratch. Among the featured artists are NCCA-National Committee on Visual Arts head Nemiranda and artists Al Perez, Jun Martinez, Cee Cadid, and Raul Isidro.

For details, call 5316231 or 0917-8511333, or e-mail info@manilart.com. Visit www.manilart.com.

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UMPIL Holds Its 37th Annual Congress

UMPIL HOLDS ITS 37TH ANNUAL CONGRESS, THE RIZAL SESQUICENTENNIAL LITERARY CONFERENCE FOR TEACHERS, AND THE 24TH “GAWAD PAMBANSANG ALAGAD NI BALAGTAS” RITE ON 25-27 AUGUST 2011

As a commemorative event and important part of its annual convention, the Unyon ng mga Manunulat sa Pilipinas (UMPIL) will hold the Rizal Sesquicentennial Literary Conference for Teachers on 25-27 August 2011 at the Claro M. Recto Hall, College of Arts and Letters, Rizal Building, College of Arts and Letters, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City.

Guest of honor is National Artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera.

On 25-26 August (Thurs-Frid), respected scholars will deliver papers on the works of Jose Rizal, each one assigned a particular literary genre and is expected to give new insights on the subject. Dr. Soledad S. Reyes (Ateneo de Manila) will tackle the novels, Dr. Virgilio S. Almario (UP Diliman) the poems, Dr. Paul A. Dumol (University of Asia and the Pacific) the plays, and Dr. Ambeth R. Ocampo (Ateneo de Manila and UP Diliman) the essays. To further inspire teachers to find new methods of teaching the Rizal course, veteran educators will demo-teach on poetry (Prof. Danilo Francisco M. Reyes), plays (Dr. Jerry Respeto), and essays (Dr. Corazon Lalu-Santos).

On 27 August, the annual UMPIL members convention features the Panayam Adrian Cristobal (public intellectual lecture series), a booklaunch, a literary forum, and the Gawad Pambansang Alagad ni Balagtas. All the previous recipients of the Gawad are invited to attend this whole-day event.

It is in honor of the late Adrian E. Cristobal, essayist, fictionist and playwright, and in homage to the Public Intellectual, that UMPIL and the Cristobal family jointly initiated the Adrian E. Cristobal Lecture series last year. The first lecturer of the series was poet Gemino Abad. The 2011 lecturer is National Artist for Literature Virgilio S. Almario. His book Rizal: Makata (Anvil Publishing, 2011) will be launch after the lecture.

The Writers Forum, with the topic “Ang Realismong Panlipunan at ang Pagsulat ng Kontemporaneong Nobela sa Filipinas” (Social Realism and the Writing of the Contemporary Filipino Novel) will feature three of the most engaging fictionists today: Mario I. Miclat, of the The Secret of the Eighteen Mansions fame; Genevieve Asenjo, who wrote Lumbay ng Dila; and Edgar Samar, author of Walong Diwata ng Pagkahulog.

The Congress’ main event is the awards ceremony of the “Gawad Pambansang Alagad ni Balagtas” for Filipino writers who have produced outstanding works and have dedicated their lives and talents to the development, propagation, and promotion of Philippine literature. The 2011 Pambansang Alagad ni Balagtas awardees are Herminio Beltran (Poetry in Filipino), Fanny A. Garcia (Fiction in Filipino), Elmer A. Ordoñez (Essay in English), Crisostomo Ilustre (Fiction in Iluko), Maria Luisa S. Defante-Gibraltar (Fiction in Hiligaynon), and Sze Manchi (Poetry in Chinese).

Paz Verdades M. Santos receives the Gawad Paz Marquez for Outstanding Educator in the field of literature and The Varsitarian of the University of Santo Tomas the Gawad Pedro Bucaneg for providing a bright guiding light to talents that later contributed in no small measure to national life.

The event is made possible by the support of the Adrian Cristobal Foundation, UP Institute of Creative Writing, and the UP College of Arts and Letters. The Office of the Chancellor-UP Diliman and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Department of Education (DepEd) endorse the conference.

UMPIL members, teachers, and other interested parties are encouraged to participate in the conference as well the convention. The Conference has a registration fee of P3,000 and the Convention P500 for new and current organization members.

For details, call Ms. Eva Cadiz c/o UP Institute of Creative Writing, 9221830. Or email the conference director and UMPIL Secretary General Michael M. Coroza at mcoroza@ateneo.edu.

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Open House @ Filipinas Heritage Library

BOOK AT THE LIBRARY

On the occasion of the Filipinas Heritage Library’s 15th year, we are hosting an open house for the venues that we offer for both corporate and personal celebrations.

On August 26 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., interested clients will be given a tour of all the event venues by our event coordinators.

You can also avail of the following perks:

·Get tablescape ideas or possible themes for your next event. Our preferred caterers will present thematic table settings.

·Select the suitable menu for your meetings or social gatherings. Caterers will provide menu selections, including sampling of select food items.

·Meet your other party needs through the different event suppliers who will be present during the open house. Ask about discounts and packages as some promotional activities will be conducted at their respective booths.

·Get a free discount voucher, which entitles you to a 15% discount on room rental. An additional 5% discount will be extended to those who will reserve on the day or will book an event that falls on a Monday.

Admission is free of charge. Freebies await the first 100 guests to register.

To sign up or get more details, please contact us:

Tel 892-1801
Mobile 0917-5594417
Fax 892-1810
venues@filipinaslibrary.org.ph
www.filipinaslibrary.org.ph

* Booth sponsors/exhibitors are also welcome to participate.

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PETA Battles Shakes-fear with Rap and Hip-hop

Young peeps with caps and blings are found rolling rap rhythms, chanting complicated metaphors while bouncing high-energy hip-hop numbers. Sounds like a Gloc 9 concert or the latest FlipTop Battle in Manila, ain’t it? But it ain’t one. It’s Philippine Educational Theater Association’s (PETA) new Shakespeare rap musical, “William”.

After the success of “Care Divas”, PETA ventures into another ambitious feat. The company, known for its distinctly Filipino theater, focuses on William Shakespeare whose literary works, no matter how great they may be - has horrified many a Filipino student to tears.

Directed by PETA Artistic Director, Maribel Legarda, “William” familiarizes young people with the beauty of Shakespeare’s works and re-invents the Bard using rap rhythm and hip-hop beats.

Shakespeare and rap alchemy

Some may say, “Shakespeare and rap ain’t mixin”. Sure. Shakespeare may not sound as the hippest poet that ever lived, but the Bard is arguably the world’s original rapper.

Shakespeare’s works, just like our rap hits today, are based on beats, rhythm and rhyme. He also first addressed the themes of desire, greed, betrayal, power, violence and love, ages before Eminem did. Besides, Shakespeare just like modern rappers today wrote for ordinary people - his peeps, and his signature iambic pentameter was the best street rhyming of his time.

“I brought in rap and hip-hop as the contemporary voice and language of young people today. I hope that Shakespeare’s poetry and today’s rap (ang bagong balagtasan) find a point of conversation and evolve into engaging dialogue and drama,” Legarda shares.

The cast of “William” trained rap under a true Tondo rapper, Shielbert Manuel, a.k.a "O.G. Sacred" who has appeared in the indie filmTribu (Best Film, Cinemalaya 2007, Pari De L' Avenir, Festival de Paris 2008) by Jim Libiran.

“William” features ten original rap songs composed by Jeff Hernandez. Songs such as “Pucha Bro”, “Nosebleed”, “O Shakespeare”, “What’s In A Name” are fusions of various music genres, like rock, soul, funk, RnB and hip-hop. “William” also utilizes an emerging form of rap, FlipTop, which is becoming more popular among today’s youth. These rap numbers, choreographed by John Tan, (from Urban Dance Crew) are performed along with various hip-hop forms, such as: crumping, breakdance, ballroom and jazz hip-hop.

Reminiscent of today’s popular TV musicals such as Glee and High School Musical, “William” is set in a high school in Metro Manila, where five young students are forced to study Shakespeare by their terror class adviser, Ms. Lutgarda Martinez.

In the process of studying, they not only realize the beauty of Shakespeare’s works but also discover themselves through Shakespeare’s characters. The class muse, Sophia, finds out what true beauty is through "Romeo and Juliet"; the bully, TJ, encounters humility and grace through "Hamlet"; the brainy OFW's daughter, Estela, learns forgiveness while the student council leader, Richard, learns self-acceptance through "Merchant of Venice"; and a timid lad, Erwin, finds his voice through "Julius Caesar".

This high school barkada soon realize that Shakespeare is not just a literary icon meant to torment their lives, but is also a brotha andpeer.

Be fear-less! Shake off your Shakes-fear. The Bard may be old and his English might make your nose bleed, but the Bard sure knows how to break-it-down.

“William” play dates are August 19-21, 26-28, September 2-4, 9-11, 16-18, 23-25, 2011 with shows at 10:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. The PETA Theater Center is located at No. 5 Eymard Drive, New Manila, Quezon City.


“William” is supported by EYP.ph, Juice.ph, ClickTheCity.com, Business World, HerWord.com, SPOT.ph, 2ndAvenue and JackTV. Tickets are Php350 (regular) and Php500 (vip). For inquiries and ticket reservations, contact PETA Marketing & PR Office at 725-6244 or 410-0821, 0917-5765400, petatheater@gmail.com.

Schedules may change without prior notice.

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10 Finalists of the 4th SILVERSHORTS.MOV 2011

"Pick up a camera. Shoot something. No matter how small, no matter how cheesy, no matter whether your friends and your sister star in it. Put your name on it as director. Now you're a director. Everything after that you're just negotiating your budget and your fee." – James Cameron



.MOV Fest asked for shorts, and you gave us shorts – more than a hundred of them, in fact. Thanks to all who submitted. The quantity and quality of the entries we received overwhelmed. Choosing the 10 best entries was a tough row for our programmers – Chard Bolisay, Dodo Dayao, & Oggs Cruz– to hoe, but hoe it they did. Here are the ten finalists for the 4th edition of the SILVERSHORTS Philippine Short Film Competition.

SILVERSHORTS.MOV 2011
(in alphabetical order)

1. JAN PHILIPPE V. CARPIO: Coverage
2. RICHMOND GARCIA: Numbalikdiwa
3. TIMMY HARN: Panty
4. CHUCK HIPOL: Man of the House
5. JON LAZAM: Hindi Sa Atin Ang Buwan [The Moon Is Not Ours]
6. JET LEYCO: Patlang [Blank]
7. GYM LUMBERA: Dahil Sa 'Yo [Because Of You]
8. MARK MIRABUENOS: Gupit [Cut]
9. LITO TABAY: Undo
10. ALVIN YAPAN: Panibugho [Jealousy]

The members of this year's Silvershorts jury are Vanja Kaludjercic (Croatia), Joel Shepard (USA),Kong Rithdee (Thailand), and Chris Fujiwara (Japan).

The 10 Silvershorts shortfilms will be premiered on September 1, Thursday, at The Podium, 11:30am to 5:30pm along with the premieres of Tan Chui Mui’s A Year Without Summer (Malaysia), Khavn De La Cruz’s Breather, and John Torres’ Mapang-akit. That same day, you can catch the opening film Bela Tarr’s The Turin Horse, short films for Alexis Tioseco & Nika Bohinc, and the launch of the DVD “Cinema Is Love: Best of .MOV Fest 2002-2008” containing five of the winning Silvershorts films) in the evening. Repeat screenings of the 10 Silvershorts finalists will be held at the UP Film Center from September 2 to 6.

Previous Silvershorts filmmakers include John Torres, Quark Henares, Sherad Anthony Sanchez, Kiri Dalena, Ato Bautista, Pam Miras, Arleen Cuevas, and Ray Gibraltar.

4th .MOV International Film, Music, & Literature Festival
September 1 to 6, 2011
The Podium, Ayala Museum, & UP Film Center
www.movfest.org

In the name of the revolution

4th .MOV International Film, Music, & Literature Festival
http://movfest.org/

Everything that your shattered heart desires
http://khavndelacruz.org

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Digital Darkroom for Photographers Workshop

Digital Darkroom for Photographers
August 23, 25, and 27 at 6-9pm

Basic photo editing and digital darkroom abilities have become part of the skills required of photographers. There are a lot of tasks and tools involved in the digital workflow but knowing how to crop or sharpen an image, fine tune settings such as exposure and saturation, or add a text can come handy for aspiring photographers.

All photographers, regardless of skill levels, have a lot to gain in learning the different digital darkroom processes such as transferring, reviewing, organizing, storing, editing, printing, and sharing. The Digital Darkroom for Photographers workshop tackles the digital workflow after the photo shoot. Topics include the following:

·What to do with the images after the photo shoot
·How to edit and fine tune images
·How to back up your images using a secured and reliable storage system
·How to present photos using different yet easy to use softwares
·How to create portfolios, presentations, and multimedia slideshows

Easy editing and fine-tuning steps will be demonstrated using Aperture 3 and other Mac softwares throughout the class. As a bonus topic, the lecturer-photographer will also show how an iPhone or an iPad can be a useful photographer’s tool in showcasing images. Participants will each be provided with a Mac computer and will be guided with step-by-step instructions.

Requirement
Digital camera, preferably SLR

Venue
Power Mac Center, 2/L Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center, Makati City

Speaker
Gunther Deichmann, a noted photographer-lecturer here and abroad, is a certified Apple Pro Trainer for Aperture and is on the Apple Aperture Advisory Board Asia. He has been taking photographs in the past 30 years and in over 25 countries.

Participation fee and discount
P3,500 inclusive of meals, computer use, and a certificate. Cash or check payments are accepted at the library or through a BPI bank deposit. Payment through BPI EPS and major credit cards is also accepted.

Limited slots only. Interested participants are requested to register on or before August 16 by paying at least P1,500 (nonrefundable; full payment is due on the first day of class).* An early bird discount of 5 percent will be given to those who pay in full on or before the deadline (except for credit card payments).

* Payment is transferable to another class if a written notice is given at least five days prior the start of the workshop. Otherwise, a P750 no-show penalty will be deducted.

For more details, please call 892-1801, send an SMS to 0917-559-4417, e-mail cruz.ct@ayalafoundation.org, or visit www.filipinaslibrary.org.ph.

*** Special thanks to Power Mac Center for its generous support of this workshop ***

*** On the occasion of the Filipinas Heritage Library’s 15th anniversary, we are hosting a BOOK AT THE LIBRARY open house for the venues that we offer for both corporate and personal celebrations on August 26 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Admission is free of charge.

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Statement on the Closure of the 'Kulo' Exhibit at the CCP by the Department of Art Studies, UP Diliman

No to Closure, No to Censorship!

We, faculty members of the Department of Art Studies, University of the Philippines in Diliman, urge the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) to reopen the exhibition “Kulo" featuring 32 works from artists who contributed to the curatorial concept of revolutionary ferment in contemporary Philippine society as inspired by Dr. Jose Rizal’s life and ideals.

While there are contending interpretations of an image presented by art, the ethical course of action is to process the contentions and that is what art ensures: a process of communicative action. The closure of an exhibition only achieved the closure of democratic, informed and thoughtful engagement.

While freedom of expression and artistic license are not absolute and must be guided with reflexivity, accountability and responsibility on the part of makers of art, the freedom is fundamental, and inalienable. The work in question is art, and while it is a site of struggle over meanings and definitions, it is protected as expression in a free society. It may violate and offend community and common standards of morality, but it would be more productive for us to bring the discussion in a well-informed manner, to study and discuss our own responses and in the process, gain new knowledge and insights, and hone our visual competencies and literacy. Why for instance do images have the power to offend and provoke an excess of emotion and action?

Now, without the artworks to look at and experience in actuality, and without benefit of proper framing and venue, such informed and engaged discussions cannot take place and so many important ideas are consequently repressed. We sadly observe that the issue has been reduced to the level of polemics, grandstanding and shouting matches over the more vital meaning of art and what role artists play in contemporary times.

The CCP should protect its mandate, reclaim and maintain its autonomy. It must take the lead, not only in guarding artistic freedom but also in ensuring a safe haven where artists as public intellectuals have the freedom to exhibit. We educators will rally behind a cultural institution that will provide the venue and platform for artists, educators, policymakers, students of art and the “public" – by no means homogenous – to come together and raise and address issues in an atmosphere conducive to forming a community of critical audiences of art.

Re-open the exhibition!

Defend the freedom of expression!

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Rizal Lectures this August @ Yuchengco Museum

August Rizal Lecture Series
13 and 20 August (Saturday), 3 - 5 p.m.
Comes with museum admission
(P100 adults, P50 students, P25 children and seniors)

Our popular series of Saturday lectures on Jose Rizal continues, with our August talks looking into the Knights of Rizal and the National Hero's concept of Filipino nationhood.

Both lectures come with museum admission (P100 for adults, P50 for students, and P25 for children and senior citizens). Advance registration is recommended. To register, call 889-1234 or email info@yuchengcomuseum.org. Yuchengco Museum is located at RCBC Plaza, Corner Ayala and Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenues, Makati City.

13 August

The Knights of Rizal: Through the Years
Justice Justo Torres, Jr.

Learn more about the Order of the Knights of Rizal, its history, its organizational structure and worldwide chapters, and its recent activities. Justice Justo Torres, Jr. is the Supreme Commander Emeritus of the Order of the Knights of Rizal, a fraternal organization that honors and upholds the ideals of the National Hero. A retired Associate Justice of the Court of the Appeals and the Supreme Court, Justice Torres is also the Vice President of the Cavite Historical Society and an official of the Philippine Judicial Academy.

20 August

Rizal and Nationhood
Paul Dumol

Join professor and playwright Paul Dumol in a discussion on Jose Rizal's contribution to the building of Filipino nationhood. Aside from teaching at the Department of History at the University of Asia and the Pacific, Paul Dumol is a playwright best known for his works Ang Paglilitis ni Mang Serapio. His plays have been exceedingly on historical subjects, particularly Philippine heroes of the end of the 19th century.

The Rizal Lecture Series is one of the highlights of the RIZALizing the Future exhibit at Yuchengco Museum, on view from 3 June to 29 October 2011. For more details, visit http://www.yuchengcomuseum.org/rizalizing.html.

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Eiga Sai 2011 @ UPFI Film Center

EIGA SAI 2011

the Japanese Film Festival

Aug 17-20, 2011 Cine Adarna @ UPFI Film Center

FREE ADMISSION

AUG 17 Wed
Summer Days with Coo (138 mins) 12:30 PM
One Million Yen Girl (121 mins) 3:00 PM
Yunagi City, Sakura Country (118 mins) 5:30 PM
Villon’s Wife (114 mins) 7:30 PM

AUG 18 Thu
Your Friend (125 mins) 12:30 PM
Yunagi City, Sakura Country (118 mins) 3:00 PM
Feel the Wind (133 mins) 5:15 PM
Climber’s High (145 mins) 7:30 PM

AUG 19 Fri
Climber’s High (145 mins) 12:30 PM
The Chef of South Polar (125 mins) 3:00 PM
Villon’s Wife (114 mins) 5:30 PM
The Summit: A Chronicle of Stones (139 mins) 7:30 PM

AUG 20 Sat
Summer Days with Coo (138 mins) 12:30 PM
Feel the Wind (133 mins) 3:00 PM
The Summit: A Chronicle of Stones (139 mins) 5:10 PM
The Chef of South Polar (125 mins) 7:30 PM




Summer Days with Coo
Aug 17, 12:30 p.m.; Aug 20, 12:30 p.m.

Coo is a kappa, a tiny amphibious creature with a dish-shaped skull. He lives in a swamp near Edo, the former name of Tokyo. There are rumors that the humans plan to drain the swamp for their own purposes, and Coo's father confronts a human samurai on the road one night to beg him to reconsider the plan. He brings the samurai a fish as a present, but the samurai is afraid of him and cuts him to pieces. Coo runs away, but just then an earthquake strikes and Coo falls into a crevice, where he is buried alive.


One Million Yen Girl
Aug 17, 3 p.m.

The film focuses on 21-year-old Suzuko who gets into trouble with her co-workers from her part-time job and ends up in jail. Coming out of the jail, living with her parents seems no longer an option. She takes on a various jobs: cleaning offices, delivering newspapers, and saves up a million yen to embark on a journey. She finds herself in a seaside resort and starts working as a part-time staff at a guest house. A local boy falls for her, but she has promised herself to leave for another town once she saves up a million yen.


Yunagi City, Sakura Country
Aug 17, 5:30 p.m.; Aug 18, 3 p.m.

The film is based on a manga comic by Fumiyo Kono, portraying the tragedy that the atomic bomb carries beyond generations and depicting the viewpoint of two women in two-frame stories, one from the past and the other from the present day.


Villon's Wife
Aug 17, 7:30p.m.; Aug 19, 5:30 p.m.

While raising a young son, Sachi (Matsu Takako), the wife of the popular writer Otani (Asano Tadanobu), struggles to contain the damage wrought by her profligate husband. To pay off his debts, she starts working at a pub where she wins the favor of Okada (Tsumabuki Satoshi), a young fan of Otani's, and her former crush lawyer Tsuji (Tsutsumi Shinichi). But Otani surges with jealousy at the sight of the newly confident and popular Sachi. Struggling with his writing as well, he attempts a love-suicide with his lover Akiko (Hirosue Ryoko).


Your Friend
Aug 18, 12:30p.m.

Writer Nakahara visits a school in a small city for his research on children with problems like school refusal. At the school, he meets Emi, a volunteering college student who has lame leg. Emi is called “Ms. Puffy” by the children because she always takes pictures of clouds. Interested in this girl, Nakahara asks her to be interviewed, but Emi refuses. Emi eventually changes her mind and shares her childhood stories with Nakahara.


Feel the Wind
Aug 18, 5:15p.m.; Aug 20, 3 p.m.

Kakeru (Hayashi Kento), a super talented runner in high school who quit the sports world to attend the up-and-coming Kansei University, finds himself being manipulated by the school's running captain, fourth year student Haiji (Koide Keisuke), to move into the dormitory for the members of the running team. He would have to deal with other tenants manga freak Prince (Nakamura Yuichi), Musa (Dante Carver) who is an African exchange student with no experience in track and field, and chain-smoker Nico-chan (Kawamura Yosuke) who failed a year of school.


Climber's High
Aug 18, 7:30 p.m.; Aug 19, 12:30 p.m.

The film is based on the Japanese bestselling novel by Hideo Yokoyama, which is inspired by actual events. The novel took 17 years to complete. It tells the story of a press reporter who finds the meaning of life through his experiences of news reporting and mountain climbing.


The Summit: A Chronicle of Stones
Aug 19, 7:30 p.m.; Aug 20, 5:10 p.m.

In 1907, a band of men challenged Japan's last unconquered mountain in order to complete a map of their nation. Mt. Tsurugidake, located in Tateyama mountain range in the Northern Alps in Toyama Prefecture, stands 2,999m above sea level, and is known to be difficult climb. It has been designated as the “God” for those engaged in mountain Asceticism-Shamanism and sometimes referred to as the “Needle Mountain” or the “Mountain of Death” for its inaccessibility.


The Chef of South Polar
Aug 19, 3 p.m.; Aug 20, 730 p.m.

Mr. Nishimura, a South Pole research team's chef, badly misses his family in Japan. With that, he always tries to make delicious meals. But, without being able to procure fresh supplies, maintaining variety in the daily menu is a Herculean task. The team is comprised of a Captain who is addicted much to ramen, the Doctor, Moto-san who he himself tries to train to participate in a triathlon event when he returns back to Japan, and the other young support members wherein Nishimura had to push himself to a great length to keep the table filled with delectable meals. Several unique characters have to live together for one-and-a-half years.

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Press Statement by Mr. Chris. B. Millado

PRESS STATEMENT BY MR. CHRIS B. MILLADO, VICE PRESIDENT AND ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, CULTURAL CENTER OF THE PHILIPPINES

12 August 2011

FIRST ALLOW ME TO THANK EVERYONE FOR COMING.

IN BEHALF OF THE OFFICERS AND STAFF OF THE CULTURAL CENTER OF THE PHILIPPINES I WOULD LIKE TO TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT ON SOME ISSUES THAT MAY HAVE BEEN MISUNDERSTOOD OR MISINTERPRETED.

FIRSTLY, LET ME RESTATE IN MY OWN WORDS THE VISION AND MISSION OF THE CULTURAL CENTER OF THE PHILIPPINES:

THE VISION OF THE CULTURAL CENTER OF THE PHILIPPINES IS TO MAKE ART MATTER TO THE LIFE OF EVERY FILIPINO. AND WE AIM TO DO THIS BY CREATING, PRODUCING, AND PRESENTING CULTURAL EXPERIENCES FROM THE PHILIPPINES AND AROUND THE WORLD – ONSITE, OFFSITE AND ONLINE. WE ALSO AIM TO SHOWCASE THE BEST EXAMPLES OF PHILIPPINE AESTHETICS AND EDUCATE THE FUTURE ARTISTS AND AUDIENCES FOR ARTS AND CULTURE.

I JOINED THE CULTURAL CENTER OF THE PHILIPPINES AS AN ARTIST AND MANAGER IN 1986 RIGHT AFTER THE PEOPLE POWER REVOLUTION. AND I AM PROUD TO HAVE BEEN NURTURED IN AN ATMOSPHERE THAT ENCOURAGED THE BLOSSOMING OF ARTISTIC EXPRESSION. I AM DOUBLY PROUD TO REPRESENT MANY TALENTED, EXCELLENT, COMMITTED (AND MAY I ADD - UNDERPAID AND OVERWORKED) ARTISTS AND ARTIST MANAGERS IN CCP .

EVEN AMONG US IN THE ART WORLD, MANY WERE OFFENDED WHEN WE FIRST VIEWED POLITEISMO. BUT IT SERVED AS AN AWAKENING. IT ROUSED OUR SENSES, CHALLENGED US TO TAKE A DEEPER LOOK, WOKE US UP TO A LESS INNOCENT WORLD: WHAT IS THE ARTIST TRYING TO SAY? WHY AM I REACTING THIS WAY? SHOULD I BE ANGRY? OR SHOULD I BE MORE INTROSPECTIVE? SHOULD I JUDGE THE ART WORK FOR WHAT I SEE ON THE SURFACE OR SHOULD I TRY TO UNDERSTAND WHAT IT IS DOING TO AFFECT ME? THIS IS THE EXPERIENCE OF ART.

A LOT OF US AGREE THAT THE CONSEQUENCES OF KULO COULD HAVE BEEN AVOIDED AND INDEED, THIS HAS SERVED TO GIVE US A LESSON THAT WILL GUIDE US IN THE FUTURE.

BUT WE CANNOT IGNORE THE IMPORTANT FACT THAT IT HAS CREATED OPPORTUNITY AND CHALLENGE TO ENGAGE OTHERS, ESPECIALLY AT THIS TIME OF CHANGE.

YOUNG OR OLD, WE NEED OPENNESS AND DIALOGUE THAT WOULD WAKE US FROM OUR COMFORT ZONES. UNDERSTANDING AND CALM, RATHER THAN JUDGEMENT, VIOLENCE OR THREATS.

WE UNDERSTAND THE DISAPPOINTMENT AND FRUSTRATION OF OUR ARTISTS WHEN THEY LEARNED ABOUT THE CLOSURE OF THE MAIN GALLERY. TO THEM PLEASE BELIEVE US WHEN WE SAY WE WILL REMAIN COMMITTED TO THE CAUSE OF ARTISTIC FREEDOM.

IN VIEW OF THE EXTREME REACTION WE RECEIVED AND CONTINUE TO RECEIVE, THE MENACING THREATS THE ARTIST AND SOME MEMBERS OF THE BOARD HAVE BEEN RECEIVING, IT HAD BEEN NECESSARY TO TAKE ACTION TO CALM TEMPERAMENTS.

WE WILL BE HOLDING DIALOGUES WITH RELEVANT SECTORS THAT WILL RESULT IN DRAWING UP REASONABLE GUIDELINES THAT WILL (A) ENSURE AN ATMOSPHERE CONDUCIVE TO ARTISTIC FRUITION (B) ENSURE RECOGNITION OF SENSITIVITIES, (C ) ENCOURAGE ABIDING TOLERANCE.

IT IS UNFORTUNATE THAT THE BIG PICTURE HAS BEEN LOST IN THE FURY AND CONFUSION OF RECENT DAYS. IN ALL MY YEARS WORKING WITH THE CCP, I AM VERY PROUD TO SAY THAT IT IS ONE GOVERNMENT AGENCY THAT HAD FOUGHT HARD AND STILL CONTINUES TO FIGHT HARD TO KEEP ITSELF FREE FROM INFLUENCES OR PRESSURES THAT THREATEN ARTISTIC EXPRESSION.

THIS OF COURSE HAD MADE US VERY VULNERABLE. BECAUSE OF THIS, WE WOULD LIKE TO DO OUR PART IN CREATING BETTER UNDERSTANDING BY HOLDING A SERIES OF PUBLIC FORUMS ON ART AND ARTISTIC FREEDOM, ART AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY, AND ART AND THE MEDIA.

I WOULD LIKE TO INVITE ALL THE MEMBERS OF THE MEDIA TO A TOUR OF THE BACKSPACES OF THE CULTURAL CENTER SO YOU CAN WITNESS THE MANY ARTISTS WHO ARE LOVINGLY AND PASSIONATELY CRAFTING THEIR NEXT GIFTS FOR THE PUBLIC. SO YOU CAN SEE THE FLOOR BOARDS, THE WALLS, THE CORRIDORS WHERE THIS EXCITING PROCESS CALLED ART HAPPENS; FEEL THE ENERGY OF THIS WONDERFUL EXCHANGE AND ENGAGEMENT OF CREATIVE MINDS; SO THAT WE MAY ALL BETTER APPRECIATE WHERE ART COMES FROM, HOW ART IS CREATED AND WHY WE ALL NEED TO STAUNCHLY UPHOLD THIS SPACE CALLED ARTISTIC FREEDOM.

IN THE 1950S THERE WAS A MOVE TO BAN THE TEACHING OF JOSE RIZAL’S NOVELS ‘NOLI ME TANGERE’ AND ‘EL FILIBUSTERISMO’, THE TRIUMPH OF KNOWLEDGE OVER UNENLIGHTENMENT HAS MADE IT POSSIBLE FOR US TODAY TO RELISH THIS ARTISTIC WORK AS ONE OF THE NATION’S GREAT CULTURAL TREASURES. THE MUSICAL VERSION OF NOLI ME TANGERE IS NOW PLAYING AT THE LITTLE THEATER. A WRITER AND A CHOREOGRAPHER ENVISIONED A NATURAL CATASTROPHE OF LANDSLIDES AND FLOODS BECAUSE OF MAN’S DISPRESPECT OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND WAY BEFORE ONDOY AND THE RECENT NATURAL CALAMITIES – THEY CREATED THE DANCE PIECE “ENCANTADA” WHICH IS OPENING THIS WEEK AT THE CCP MAIN THEATER. WE CONTINUE TO CREATE AND TO OFFER GIFTS TO OUR PUBLIC INSPITE OF THE DIFFICULTIES WE FACE IN FUNDING.

WE NEED YOU TO CHAMPION THE ARTS AND NOT DENIGRATE IT. WE NEED YOU TO SUPPORT THE ARTS INSTEAD OF THREATENING TO DEFUND IT. THE UPHOLDING OF ARTISTIC FREEDOM SHOULD BE EVERYONE’S STEADFAST RESPONSIBILITY – FOR IT IS ONLY IN THIS FREEDOM THAT WE CAN ALL LIVE SIDE BY SIDE IN ABIDING TOLERANCE AND SOULFUL CREATIVITY.

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2011 Ateneo Art Awards Shortlist

The Ateneo Art Gallery, widely recognized as the country's first modern art museum, is pleased to announce the 12 artists short-listed for the Ateneo Art Awards 2011: Anatomy of Autonomy. They are:

Renato Barja Jr.
The Jungle and the Rain
Solo Exhibition
Blanc Compound
15 January - 5 February 2011

Frank Callaghan
River of Our Dreams
Solo Exhibition
Manila Contemporary
2 - 24 October 2010

Olivia d'Aboville
New Frontiers: Olivia d'Aboville Chasm of Fantasies
Solo Exhibition
Ayala Museum
15 July - 12 September 2010

Kawayan de Guia
Bomba
Solo Exhibition
Jorge Vargas Museum
15 June - 18 December 2010

Bembol dela Cruz
House Blend
Solo Exhibition
Blanc Compound
9 - 30 April 2011

Nona Garcia
Fractures
Solo Exhibition
West Gallery
27 July to 14 August 2010

Sam Kiyoumarsi
Inalienable Dreamless
Solo Exhibition
Lost Projects
16 March - 20 April 2011

Tatong Recheta Torres
Make My Day!
Solo Exhibition
Yarn Factory Art Projects, Tochigi Japan (Second Life SIM)
21 June 2010 onwards

Maria Taniguchi
Echo Studies
Solo Exhibition
Jorge Vargas Museum
30 March to 28 May 2011

Rodel Tapaya
Simple Depictions
Group Exhibition
Alliance Francaise de Manille Total Gallery
25 November - 16 December 2010

MM Yu
Waste Not Want Not
Solo Exhibition
Finale Video Room, Finale Art File
7 - 30 May 2010

Maria Jeona Zoleta
Sure Sure, Happy Happy, Picture Picture
Solo Exhibition
20 Square (SLab)
7 - 31 July 2010

Established in 2004 to honor the memory of its founding benefactor Fernando Zobel de Ayala (1924-1984), whose support of young Filipino visual artists left an indelible mark in Philippine art history, the Ateneo Art Awards are given to Filipino visual artists below the age of 36 for outstanding works in an exhibition between 2 May 2010 and 1 May 2011.

On its eighth year, the Ateneo Art Awards takes the theme "Anatomy of Autonomy," dissecting and surveying artistic thought in the contemporary Philippine art scene. Unbound by any cultural, social, academic or even aesthetic dogma, the creative spirit of young Filipino visual artists is duly recognized.

From the 12 shortlisted exhibitions/artworks, 3 are chosen as winners. The winning artists are then invited to apply for international residency grants funded by the Ateneo Art Gallery and its partner institutions: Common Room Networks Foundation in Bandung, Indonesia, La Trobe University Visual Arts Centre in Bendigo, Australia, Artesan Gallery in Singapore, Art Omi in New York, USA and Liverpool Hope University in Liverpool, United Kingdom.

The Ateneo Art Awards are presented by the Ateneo Art Gallery, Shangri-la Plaza, SMART, Metro Society, Y-style of the Philippine Star, and the New York Art Project, funded by Marcel Crespo.

The works of the short-listed artists will be exhibited at the Grand Atrium of the Shangri-la Plaza, Edsa corner Shaw Boulevard from 5-15 August 2011 and at the Ateneo Art Gallery, Level 2 Rizal Library Special Collections Building, Ateneo de Manila University, Loyola Heights, Quezon City from 20 August – 10 September 2011. The winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony on 11 August 2011, 5:30pm at the Grand Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza. For more information, please contact Ian Jaucian, Ateneo Art Awards Project Coordinator, at 426-6488 or email ijaucian@ateneo.edu, or visit our website http://ateneoartgallery.org/.

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NCCA Celebrates Indigenous Peoples’ Month in Davao Region

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts’ (NCCA) annual celebration of National Indigenous Peoples’ Month moves to Davao Region in Mindanao with Tagum City as its main venue. This October, Dayaw: Indigenous Peoples Festival 2011, under the auspices of the NCCA’s Subcommission on Cultural Communities and Traditional Arts and Mindanawon Foundation, in partnership with local governments, government agencies and the private sector, focuses the spotlight on the country’s indigenous peoples, celebrating their arts and ways of life, discussing important issues and making more people aware of the richness and importance of indigenous cultures.

The leaders and representatives of more than 100 indigenous peoples of the Philippines will converge together on October 6-10, 2011 to showcase their rituals, performing arts, cuisines, games, crafts and others. Additionally, they will be joined by delegates from Southeast Asian countries in simultaneous exchange and interactive activities such as performances, exhibitions, forums, lecture-demonstrations, workshops on traditional crafts and cuisines and indigenous games.

This year, Dayaw aims to celebrate the cultures of the Filipino people as well as those of the visiting foreign delegates by “understanding the commonalities of the various indigenous peoples.” It also aims to “strengthen/broaden the awareness, appreciation and pride of all Filipinos for our own traditional culture in the context of cross-cultural interactions in a global society.

With the theme “Paghabi ng Ating Pagkakatulad Tungo sa Kapayapaan” (Interweaving Our Commonalities Towards Peace), the festival features many components such as Tanghalang Makulay (a ritual and performing arts festival), Salu-salong Sarap (a food festival), Mga Habi ng Panaginip (an arts and crafts exhibit, focusing on basketry, textile and mat weaving), Sama-sama sa Tuwa (games/sports), and Usapang Dangal at Likhang Paghayag (forum and creative workshop on peace and unity).

The celebration is in consonance with Presidential Proclamation 1906, declaring October as National Indigenous Peoples’ Month. The NCCA has been holding major festivals for several years now in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. In 2007, Kalimudan: Panaghi-usa sa Mindanao (Mindanao Indigenous Peoples’ Gathering) held in Davao City in November, featured Mindanao’s ethnic groups. The following year, Timpuyog: Indigenous Peoples’ Month Celebration in Luzon was held in Santiago City, Isabela, focusing on Luzon ethnic groups and featuring performances, arts and crafts workshops, cultural awareness lectures, forums, tours, and a theme-park exhibition featuring the traditional houses, cultural resources, practices/rituals, chants, music, songs and dances, stories, traditional arts and crafts, indigenous games. In 2009, the Indigenous Peoples’ Festival was held in the Visayas, particularly in Roxas City, Capiz, called Dungog, with similar activities and aims. Last year, Dayaw 2010 was held in Metro Manila.

This festival aims to provide venue for indigenous peoples to celebrate the richness of their cultures; allow cultural exchanges that will foster deeper cultural understanding to sustain a culture of peace; provide opportunity to discuss IP rights; give students and other people a chance to deepen their awareness and appreciation of indigenous cultures; recognize the expertise and contributions of indigenous communities; and advocate for the preservation as well as integration of traditional culture into the national cultural mainstream.

Dayaw 2011 is held in cooperation with local governments, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, Department of Education, Department of Tourism, Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Foreign Affairs, Commission on Higher Education, Philippine Information Agency, Department of Trade and Industry, National Commission for Muslim Filipino, SM City Davao, Abreeza Ayala, as well as non-governmental, socio-civic and peoples’ organizations.

The NCCA is led by its chairman, Prof. Felipe de Leon, Jr., and Malou Jacob as executive director, with Commissioner Joycie Dorado-Alegre as SCCTA head.

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Press Statement of the CCP on the Kulo Exhibit

Due to numerous emails, text messages and other letters sent to various offficers of the CCP, and to the artists themselves, with an increasing number of threats to persons and property, the members of the Board of the Cultural Center of the Philippines have decided to close down the Main Gallery where the Kulo Exhibit is on display. This decision was made amidst controversy and deliberation by the Board as to what steps are necessary to avoid future similar incidents.

In the light of the foregoing developments and recent experience, the CCP management has reviewed its policies and are now taking steps to enable its officers and staff to make more informed decisions in the future.

The CCP shall continue to act as catalyst for free expression of Filipino artists. It thanks all those who have, in one way or another, contributed to the dialogue about art, and the different ways it affects society today.


Backgrounder:

KULO' opened on June 17 at the CCP Main Gallery, a compilation of work by 32 artists, meant to be part of the Center's celebration of the 150th anniversary of Jose Rizal. Because all the participating artists had a common educational background, all having studied at the UST, they felt it fitting that the theme of Jose Rizal also reflect the heritage and culture represented by the 400-year old university.

Each artist participated with one installation. It was curated by J. Pacena II.

In keeping with previous practice to evaluate merits of art works on the basis of established parameters, the CCP Visual Arts Division, headed by Karen Ocampo-Flores, approved the proposal to exhibit on the basis of an evaluation of their proposal as well as the background qualifications of the participating artists.

Publicity on the exhibit only happened after a major network covered it in the news. Particular focus had been put on one specific art work, "Politeismo." By Mideo Cruz. Politeismo has been exhibited since 2002 in such venues as the Ateneo de Manila, UP Vargas Musueum and Kulay Diwa Galleries.

Threats to security became most alarming on Aug. 4 when Security reported that a couple had vandalized the art works and attempted to set fire to the exhibit but had been unsuccessful. Subsequent hate mails and threats to members of the Board intensified following this incident.

Following serious discussion, the Board members agreed on the common objective, to nurture freedom of artistic expression, while recognizing the responsibilities that go with it.

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Philippine Opera Company Presents Ang Bagong Harana

The word “harana” is a Tagalog word (the predominant Philippine dialect) that connotes a traditional form of courtship in which a man woos a woman’s affection by singing love songs.

This iconic romantic tradition is the penultimate test for the Pinoy macho in the early 1920’s to court the woman he fancies in their neighborhood. Accompanied by two to three other male ‘barkadas’ with the guitar as the only musical instrument, the main male proponent would sing around two to three locally-written songs about the joys of love, and how one’s heart longs for the woman destined to be his wife. Widely practiced all over the Philippines up until World War II, the ‘harana’ is done at night when the folk are already asleep, the ‘lady’ being courted would get up from her bed and together with her kinsfolk, the ‘window’ is opened as a polite gesture of appreciation until the rest of the songs are completed. “The ‘harana’ is quite similar to the balcony scene of William Shakepeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” but delivered in a medieval poetry.

The ‘harana’ or ‘kundiman’ became a mainstream musical style with veteran performers namely Diomedes Maturan and Ruben Tagalog popularizing it until the late 60’s. Unfortunately, with the advent of newer music genres, ‘harana’ has quietly been left behind. Today, the young generation may not even know its real essence as far as Filipino folk traditions are concerned. And that is the one singular reason why POC is reviving this beautiful Filipino culture,” says Ms. Karla Gutierrez, the dynamic artistic director of the Philippine Opera Company.

In 2008, POC produced the critically-acclaimed hit “ Harana ” as a vehicle to showcase the evolution of Philippine music through song and movement. Its numerous reviews from Manila’s art cognoscenti and clamor for more shows further boosted “ Harana ” to conquer the international scene when it went on a tour of Amsterdam in 2009. Upon the group’s return, the 2010 regional tour covering the cities of Cebu, Roxas, Antique, Bohol, Dumaguete and Palawan continued to reap more success and acclaim. For the early part of 2011, “ Harana ” has performed in Bacolod, Ormoc, Tacloban and Samar.

For the 2011-2012 season of the Philippine Opera Company, “ Ang Bagong Harana ” takes another bold step with a newer and fresher version with an array of immortal and classic Filipino songs that will be interpreted in “never seen performances” by the country’s foremost artists from the field of music.

So, what makes “ Ang Bagong Harana ” different?

According to Floy Quintos (a multi-awarded writer, director and Carlos Palanca winner), this new ‘harana’ is going to be much more challenging as over-all director because of the wholistic approach in looking at our culture and the music that resonates from every region in our country.

“ Ang Bagong Harana ” will integrate past, present, north, south, colonial, post-colonial experiences and put them into a revue where our whole souls will be the source of inspiration. The different suites shall mix old and new songs re-mixed, re-arranged and re-edited while talking about “ who we are as a Filipino ” and “ where we have all come from ”.

The creation of each Harana ‘suite’ is a product of thorough research with the commitment to preserve indigenous Philippine music and its appropriate dance and folklore.

“ Ang Bagong Harana ” will showcase the best of all the Filipino composers from different music genres --- Nicanor Abelardo, Ryan Cayabyab, Willy Cruz, Francisco Santiago, Antonio Molina, Resti Umali, George Canseco, Ernani Cuenco, Levi Celerio, Jose Estrella, Constancio De Guzman and Felipe de Leon, to name a few.

“ Ang Bagong Harana ” will feature Philippine theater’s celebrated singers - Karla Gutierrez, Aizel Prietos, Charley Magalit, Janine Santos, Marian Santiago, Lawrence Jatayna, Jack Salud, Nazer Salcedo, Marvin Gayramon, Al Gatmaitan, Jurgen Unterberg and Floyd Tena.

“ Ang Bagong Harana ” is truly the musical journey every Filipino should take and all Filipinos should be proud of. Every suite and costume details were thoroughly researched by the artistic team.

It’s a must-see production for every Filipino who wants to hear our very own ‘ kundiman ’ music amidst all other music genres, which are now perpetuating our local music scene. This will also serve as a musical treat for foreigners as an initial step to immerse themselves in a truly authentic Filipino music environment with the hope of making them understand our country’s cultural and musical heritage.

“ Ang Bagong Harana ” is also a tribute to the Filipino youth of today. As more and more younger kids are drawn to become ‘musical artists,’ most of them have been drawn to Western influences. Perhaps, the young kids of today can learn from “ Ang Bagong Harana ” specially, those who need to assert their own Filipino identity through the rich music heritage we have.

“ Ang Bagong Harana ” will have a limited run from September 29-October 1 at 8pm with matinee at 3:30 pm on October 1 at the Carlos P. Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati.

For ticket sales please call Philippine Opera Company at 881-7168 or 0917-5272880 or TicketWorld at 891-9999 or log on towww.philippineoperacompany.com or Like Harana on Facebook.

 

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Three Solo Shows by Women Artists @ Boston Art Gallery

Three solo shows by women artists at Boston Art Gallery this August:

Weena Soberano-Espardinez, Tammy Tan, and Sonia Alluso

Opening on August 13, 2011 at Boston Art Gallery in Cubao are simultaneous solo exhibitions of recent works by Weena Soberano-Espardinez, Tammy Tan, and Sonia Alluso.

Weena Soberano-Espardinez unveils her “Trying Waters” show of recent paintings in acrylic on canvas. Her work combine figures of women submerged or interacting with the element of water, creating scapes and shapes distorted and diffused by water, light, and glass.

The artist captures these moments of transition and transformation where figure and flesh meets fluid, dripping and drenched or in contact against wet glass. The works tread across “the symbolic and the technical—an experiment in both skill and meaning,” as the artist terms it. Soberano-Espardinez has been a practicing visual artist and writer for the past two decades and is a member of the artists group Salingpusa.

Tammy Tan presents “Stilled Life,” showing human figures lost in indoor scenes and still life objects, such as potted plants and bonsai. Imbuing human presence into scenes populated by otherwise still objects, Tan's paintings capture little moments and memories of discoveries, suspended in time.

Sonia Alluso's exhibit of new genre paintings, entitled “Spices of Life,” represents in vivid colors scenes and vignettes from everyday life, highlighting the nuanced relationships between people, family, and loved ones.

Often titling her works after food, Alluso presents the various flavors of life and offers viewers a taste of the varying emotions and experiences that the ordinary person goes through. Alluso is presently working as an art teacher and studio artist.

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Rizal Lectures at Yuchengco Museum this August

The Yuchengco Museum continues its popular Rizal Lecture Series, this time looking into the Knights of Rizal and Jose Rizal’s concept of Filipino nationhood. The series began last July as a highlight of RIZALizing the Future, an exhibit on view at the museum until October 29, 2011.

Two Rizal lectures are scheduled this August, both held on Saturday afternoons beginning at 3 p.m. On August 13, Justice Justo Torres, Jr. will talk about The Knights of Rizal: Through the Years, shedding light on the Order of the Knights of Rizal and its objectives and organizational structure. He will also discuss the Order’s recent activities and programs. Justice Torres is the Supreme Commander Emeritus of the Order of the Knights of Rizal, a fraternal organization that honors and upholds the ideals of the National Hero. A retired Associate Justice of the Court of the Appeals and the Supreme Court, Justice Torres is also the Vice President of the Cavite Historical Society and an official of the Philippine Judicial Academy.

On August 20, Paul Dumol will speak on Rizal and Nationhood, specifically on Jose Rizal’s contribution to the building of Filipino nationhood. Paul Dumol is an associate professor at Department of History at the University of Asia and the Pacific, where he teaches courses on ethics, Philippine history, and Jose Rizal. Dumol is also a playwright, his best known work being Ang Paglilitis ni Mang Serapio. Dumol’s plays have been exceedingly on historical subjects, particularly Philippine heroes of the end of the 19th century.

Both talks come with museum admission (P100 for adults, P50 for students, and P25 for children and senior citizens). Advance registration is recommended. To reserve, call 889-1234 or email info@yuchengcomuseum.org. The Yuchengco Museum is located at RCBC Plaza, corner Ayala and Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenues, Makati City.

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Tour of Negros Occidental by Museum Foundation of the Philippines

Tour of Negros Occidental
Organized by the Museum Foundation of the Philippines, Inc.

Negros is known as the sugar central of the Philippines. The cultivation of sugar and the affluence it brought to the island’s economy created a unique lifestyle. This is best reflected in its heritage houses, museums, churches and the delectable food served on its table. An intimate glimpse of “La Dulce Vida” awaits you. Join us and discover what the Sweet Life in Negros is all about.


August 18, 2011 to 20, 2011
Cost per person P20,000 for MFPI members, P22,000 for non-members
Inclusive of air fare, travel insurance, accommodation, tour transportation, meals, entrance and guide fees.

Tour Itinerary

August 18, 2011 --Thursday
Arrive Bacolod Airport at 9:40 am (PR 133 -- leaves Manila 8:30 am)
Proceed to L Fisher Hotel for check-in
Bacolod City Tour -- Negros Museum
Drive thru San Sebastian Cathedral, plaza, Rizal Elementary School, Negros Occidental High School, Magsungay & Old Airport on the way to lunch
Lunch at Aboy's Restaurant
Bago City Tour – Balay ni Tan Juan Araneta, Mayu Silk Farm
ANP Showroom
Dinner at Chicken House Mandalagan
Dessert at Orange Gallery (owned by artist Charlie Co, located right next door to Chicken House Mandalagan)

August 19, 2011 -- Friday
Santa Clara Chapel
Ramon Hofilena Heritage House
Balay Negrense
Lunch at Torino-Bantug Fishpond hosted by Mrs. Armita Rufino, MFPI President
Balay ni Tana Dicang, Talisay, with merienda hosted by the in-house Capitana Gallery of Albert Avellana
Aniceto Lacson/Claparols House
The Ruins, Talisay City
Dinner at Café/Trattoria Uma
Coffee & dessert at Calea

August 20, 2011 -- Saturday
St. Joseph the Worker Chapel, Victorias
Lunch at Hda. Sta Rosalia with buffet menu prepared by Chef Jomi Gaston
Chapel of the Cartwheels, Manapla
Bernardino Jalandoni Heritage House, Silay
El Ideal -- coffee break
Depart for Manila at 6:45 pm (PR 136-arrives Manila 7:50 pm)

For reservations and inquiries, please contact Elvie or Mae at the Museum Foundation of the Philippines office: Tel 404 2685, 697 9509 or 0949 3338211 (Elvie) or 0927 8484680 (Mae). You may also contact Flor Cortez at 722 9073 or Tonie Bautista at 810 6912.

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SEAIR's "Animated Short Tails" Contest Deadline Extended

SEAIR's "Animated Short Tails"

Get a shot at winning a dream vacation package for two at one of the country's best year-round destinations, Batanes, with the extended run of the "Animated Short Tails" contest.

Due to insistent public demand, the animation competition is extended until September 15, 2011, Thursday. Awarding will coincide with the 5th Philippine Animation Festival, Animahenasyon, on November 25, 2011.

Presented by South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR), together with the Animation Council of the Philippines, Inc. (ACPI), "Animated Short Tails" is open to all Filipinos. Registration is free and forms can be downloaded at www.animahenasyon.com. Competition updates will be posted at www.facebook.com/flyseair

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COC Collection Series at NOVA Gallery Manila

 NOVA Gallery Manila features a Collection Viewing from the Carlos Oppen Cojuangco archives.

The Main Gallery showcases artist Leonilo Doloricon's twenty-four piece rubbercut series produced from 1987 until 1991. The series reflects the socio-political condition of the Filipino society during the late 80's and early 90's, portraying poverty and struggle.

The Collector's Gallery (2nd floor) will also be showing "Untitled Series" featuring the works of different media from artists Dyun Conanan, Gerardo Ingco, and Raul Lebajo. The exhibits run from 25 July until 5 August 2011 at NOVA Gallery, Warehouse 12A, La Fuerza Compound, 2241 Don Chino Roces Ave., Makati City.

For more information call 392-7797 or send an electronic mail to gallerynova@gmail.com or visit www.novagallerymanila.com

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Art Classes from July-September 2011 @ Young Artists' Studio

Start your journey to artistry with Young Artists’ Studio’s art programs this quarter! Start young, start right!

ART FOR BEGINNERS for ages 5-7 (Saturdays 10am-12nn / starts on July 23)
BASIC PAINTING for ages 7 up (Sat-Sun 10am-12nn / starts on July 30)
FASHION DESIGN for Kids & Teens ( for ages 10 above, Saturdays 2pm-4pm / starts on July 30)
BASIC ANIMATION ( for ages 9 above, Saturdays 2pm-4pm / starts on July 30)

STORYTELLING & PUPPETRY (Sundays 10am-12nn / ongoing)
ART & PLAY DROP-IN SESSIONS for ages 2 and above (Mon-Tues-Thurs-Fri 1:00-2:30pm, 2:30-4:00pm / starting July 18)

One-on-one classes for all ages in Painting, Drawing, Illustration, and more.

The Young Artists’ Studio (YAS) is a venue for young and aspiring artists to learn art production while developing life skills and realizing one’s potential for social contribution. YAS is managed by art practitioners who advocate that art is a powerful tool to maximize individualities, influence communities, improve lives, and transform the society.

For details and other inquiries, please call 975-0052 / 964-5951 or email youngartistsstudio@gmail.com

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PEACES - An Exhibition By Deform @ Atomika Design Studio

PEACES is peace with an extra "s" and sounds like "pieces".

The installation is a collection of tidbits inspired by "Tingi-Tingi" - a Filipino term regarding items of small quantity, reconceptualizing Atomika Design Studio as a working space composed of drawings, graffiti and altered objects.

The exhibition also marks the launch of the "Sprayer" figure produced in collaboration with Whooop Factory, depicting Deform's EyeCon character holding a spray paint can with both hands together like it was saying a prayer.

Visit http://deformindustry.blogspot.com/

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UPFI Film Center this August 2011

The UP Film Institute announces its main slate of screenings for August 2011 all at the UPFI Film Center. Cinemalaya fever continues with the Netpac Best Film Winner, Benito Bautista’s Boundary; the premier state university’s premiere of Cinemalaya’s closing film, Jade Castro’s Zombadings and a selection of outstanding student films under the Best of UPFI banner. The national cinemas of Japan and Brazil are in showcase respectively with Eiga Sai and the Brazil Film Festival. In commemoration of the National Heroes Month is the special run for Mario O’Hara’s Ang Paglilitis ni Andres Bonifacio. More films further comprise the month’s features accordingly for Back to Classics, Untitled/Visions and Spotlight on Docus. Tudla Productions’ Pandayang Lino Brocka Political Film and New Media Festival now on its third year complete the month’s screening highlights.

Cine Adarna :

*CINEMALAYA 7: (Director's Showcase and NETPAC Films)

Aug 2 Tue
San Lazaro (NETPAC), 230pm
Teoriya, 5pm
Bisperas, 8pm

Aug 3 Wed
Gayuma(NETPAC), 230pm
Isda, 5pm
Busong, 8pm

Aug 4 Thu
Nono (NETPAC), 230pm
Shorts A, 5pm
Patikul, 8pm

Aug 5 Fri
Local Girls (NETPAC), 230pm
Best Picture-New Breed, 7pm(SOLD OUT, NO SRO TICKETS)
Best Picture-Director's Showcase, 9pm

Aug 6 Sat
Huling Halik (NETPAC), 230pm
The Natural Phenomenon of Madness (NETPAC), 5pm
Liberacion (NETPAC), 730pm

Aug 9 Tue
Zombadings : Patayin sa shokot si Remington - Closing Film, 730pm

Aug 16 Tue
Boundary, Cinemalaya Netpac Best Film, 7pm

Tickets @ P80 , for Reservations:
contact 09272990318 for Director's showcase
contact 09159875323 for NETPAC Films

*3rd PANDAYANG LINO BROCKA POLITICAL FILM AND NEW MEDIA FESTIVAL
Aug 10 – 11, 2011
Free Admission

Aug 10
10:00 AM Forum: Filipinization of Mass Media | Ishmael Bernal Gallery
1:00 PM Film Screening | Cine Adarna
6:00 PM Awarding of Trophies and Certificates | Cine Adarna
6:30 PM Tribute to Lino Brocka | Cine Adarna
7:30 PM Special Screening of Lino Brocka’s Dung-aw | Cine Adarna

Aug 11
10:00 AM Workshop: Script Writing | Ishmael Bernal/Videotheque
1:00 PM Film Screening | Cine Adarna
4:00 PM Launching of Brgy. Corazon de Jesus’ Documentary, Short Film and Book | Cine Adarna
6:00 PM Exhibit: PeliKulay | Ishmael Bernal Gallery

Official Film Selection
Ka Bel | Documentary by Mayday Multimedia
K-1 | Short Film by Christopher Nazareno
Sounds of New Hope | Documentary by Eric Tandoc
43 | Animation by Southern Tagalog Exposure
Obra ng Lipunan | Poetry in Motion by Hector Calma
Lesson Plan | Short Film by Gerry Jumawan
Panaw-Kalinaw | Short Film by Arnel Mardoquio
Badjau sa Makabagong Panahon | Documentary by University of Assumption-Pampanga
Dugo ang Iniluha ng mga Bulaklak | Poetry in Motion by Rom Factolerin
Aktibista | Documentary by Karen Camille Gutierrez/St. Scholastica’s College
Salute | Poetry in Motion by JL Burgos
Halas | Experimental Film by Rob Jara

*EIGA SAI 2011
Aug 17-20, 2011
Free Admission

AUG 17 Wed
Summer Days with Coo (138 mins) 12:30 PM
One Million Yen Girl (121 mins) 3:00 PM
Yunagi City, Sakura Country (118 mins) 5:30 PM
Villon’s Wife (114 mins) 7:30 PM

AUG 18 Thu
Your Friend (125 mins) 12:30 PM
Yunagi City, Sakura Country (118 mins) 3:00 PM
Feel the Wind (133 mins) 5:15 PM
Climber’s High (145 mins) 7:30 PM

AUG 19 Fri
Climber’s High (145 mins) 12:30 PM
The Chef of South Polar (125 mins) 3:00 PM
Villon’s Wife (114 mins) 5:30 PM
The Summit: A Chronicle of Stones (139 mins) 7:30 PM

Summer Days with Coo (138 mins) 12:30 PM
Feel the Wind (133 mins) 3:00 PM
The Summit: A Chronicle of Stones (139 mins) 5:10 PM
The Chef of South Polar (125 mins) 7:30 PM

*BRAZIL FILM FESTIVAL 2011
Aug 24 & 31 Sep 7 & 14 / Weds / 5pm & 7pm
Free Admission

Aug 24 Wed
Domesticas (Maids) 5pm
2 Filhos de Francisco (Two Sons of Francisco) 7pm

Aug 31 Wed
Brava Gente Brazileira (Brave New Land) 5pm
Estorvo (Turbulence) 7pm

Sept 7 Wed
O Homem de Capa Preta (The Man in the Black Cape) 5pm
O Casamento de Louise (Louise’s Wedding) 7pm

Sept 14 Wed
Sao Paulo, Sociedade de Anonima , 5pm
Terra Estrangeira (Foreign Land) 7pm

Videotheque:
(Videotheque screenings are for free except for Ang Paglilitis ni Andres Bonifacio, tickets @ P80.)

*UNTITLED/VISIONS:

Aug 11 Thu
Abbas Kiarostami's Ten, 5pm
Apichatpong Weerasethakul’s Mysterious Object at Noon, 7pm

Aug 18 Thu
Alexander Sokurov's The Russian Ark, 5pm
Alain Resnais' Last Year in Marienbad, 7pm

*BACK TO CLASSICS :

Aug 9 Tue
Luciano B. Carlos’ Petrang Kabayo (1988) 5pm

Aug 12 Fri
Gerardo de Leon’s Dawn of Freedom + Mario O’ Hara’s Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos, 5pm

Aug 23 Tue
Ishmael Bernal’s El Vibora+ Celso Ad Castillo’s Asedillo, 5pm

*National Heroes Special :

Aug 13, 20, 27
Mario O’ Hara’s Ang Paglilitis ni Andres Bonifacio, 230pm & 5pm

*Cinemalaya 7 :

Aug 25 Thu
Best of UPFI

*Spotlight of Docus:

Aug 26 Fri
UPFI Works, 230pm & 5pm

Ishmael Bernal Gallery :
Free Admission

*DAILY DIGEST : Exhibition by Recent UP Fine Arts Graduates (Jul 15- Aug 5)
*FRESHLY SQUEEZED : Annual Freshspace Art Exhibition (Aug 19 - Sep 9)
*Outdoor Photo Installation : Buen Abrigo & Sam Kiyoumarsi (Aug 8 - Sep 2)

UPFI WORKSHOPS :
Schedule : 4 Saturdays of September
Time : 1 – 5pm
Course Fees : TBA
Venue : Film Building, CMC Media Center

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY
BASIC SCRIPTWRITING
DIGITAL VIDEO PRODUCTION

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Mapua Tekno Teatro Stages Three Original Plays For Dramafest 2011

Mapua Tekno Teatro (MT2), the official drama organization of the Mapua Institute of Technology (MIT), is staging Dramafest 2011 on August 3, 4 and 6 at the Seminar Room of the MIT main campus in Intramuros, Manila. Dramafest 2011 consists of three original one-act plays written and directed by MT2 members to close the group's 10th anniversary celebration. MT2 was founded in August 2001. The organization is under the supervision of Dante Sauquillo, director of the MIT Office of Student Activities and Discipline.

“The institution supports student organizations such as the MT2 in its bid to enforce values and promote a broader perspective for the development of students in a wholistic manner. This is the educational philosophy of Mapua,” Sauquillo said. He added that: “Theater promotes a change of perspective or a broadening of which when the MT2 members study characters in preparation for a play.”

Eroplano, written by Khyacee Dejarlo and directed by Anton Mercado, follows the story of a family with an OFW father who tries to start and rebuild relationships with his wife and children. AJ Ramos, Charizza Villanueva, Conan O. Penawin, Rachelle Gimpes, Jovy Vieja, and Rommhel Coliat comprise the cast of Eroplano.

Penned by Anggoy Jalla and directed by Alsus Adiaton, Si Dos at si Singko features a world where two unborn infants live, and watch the world from a frame. Dos is played by Adrienne Orense and AJ Eleazar while MK Espiritu essays the role of Singko. Other cast members include Irene Billones, Steven Ace Galedo, John Joseph Perez, Danny Cardenas and Rommhel Coliat.

Silence Speaks, on the other hand, tells how two disabled children communicate using the language of love. Earl John Dangalan, Mi-chan Mendoza, and Aljohn Casil top bill the play supported by Maria Jezreel A. Bernaldez and Leih Gonzales. The play is written by Debbie del Rosario and under the direction of Feb Ladiet.

Dramafest 2011 has the following time schedule: For August 3, Silence Speaks at 1:30 p.m., Eroplano at 3:00 p.m. and Si Dos at si Singko at 4:30 p.m. On August 4, Eroplano at 1:30 p.m., Silence Speaks at 3:00 p.m. and Si Dos at si Singko at 4:30 p.m. For August 6, Si Dos at si Singko at 10:30 a.m., Eroplano at 12:00 noon, and Silence Speaks at 1:30 p.m. followed by an awarding ceremony.

Visual artist Abril Dominic Valdemoro designed and created majority of the props and set pieces of the three plays, costumes for Dos and Singko, and the sculptured trophies for the awards. Betty Uy-Regala is the resident acting coach of MT2.

Ticket is P20 per play or P50 for a day pass of three plays. For inquiries, please contact Mi-chan Mendoza, (0917) 786-2787; Alsus Adiaton, (0915) 854-0656, and Earl John Dangalan, (0915) 765-0566.

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