A Date with Art

It was my birthday yesterday and it sadly passed without someone to share it with. Yes, there were greetings from the nuclear family (over the phone) and that's all. But how does the popular saying goes? "Your happiness shouldn't be dependent on others but rather unto yourself." That became my birthday mantra. But hey! This post is not about my natal day rantings. So pardon me, dear readers. I just wanted to share my experience during the Art Fair Philippines 2014 at The Link Car Park on February 23, 2014. Contrary to my prior thoughts, the place was flowing with a multifariousness of art enthusiasts, adults and kids alike. It's not your trite art gala groomed only for the cognoscenti. As per the words of Trickie Lopa (one of the organizers), the fair "shouldn't just be the domain of intellectuals...it should also belong to students, professionals - for everybody who's interested. We want to make sure that the fair reflects how accessible   art should be." (Igan D'bayan, The Philippine Star)

So, though I'm part of the mediocrity in the art world, I'll bravely spill my notions on the following pieces. (But, please don't look for the titles. I could care less about them during my stint at the fair. Just feast with your eyes, okay?)

Quite vulgar wouldn't you say? Well, at first, it is for me. But then on second thought, nudity is always on the verge of being pornographic or artistic. And, since I attended an art fair, I guess I should settle on the latter. 

I have a deep interest for miniature pieces like this. I could stare at time for long periods of time just to discern how the minute details were created. 

What can I say? I took a photo of this art piece 'cause I wanna take it home and sit on it. I can imagine myself sprawled on it the whole day while reading a book or watching a movie.

The almost garish ping pong tables. They say it's made of rubber like the ones used in making slippers. I would've loved to play in of them tables but alas, I went alone so, so much for even bothering to think about it..haha.

Could be just another one of the old medieval paintings, but the white lines that cut across the portrait gave it an unmistakably modern touch. Not to mention the conspicuous "chibi" technique (as a fan of Japanese anime, I couldn't help it!).

At first glance, I thought it's a figure of a Chinese emperor (I'm currently addicted to the Korean historical drama "Empress Ki" that's why my judgments are always tainted). But then, it's part of the Alice in Wonderland themed collection so I guess I should liken it more one of the characters (The Red Queen or the Mad Hatter, perhaps).

Birthday blues? You know what I mean.

I would love to have this as an altar. The idea was just so fresh, typical of an artist.

Artistry inked on peso bills. Though how much this would curb my spending habit (as a result of me keeping these gorgeous papers), I'm afraid we'll appear as clowns to other countries. But who cares?! Japan got cute, adorable mascots in their prison cells..lol.

The wind boy having siesta (hey, that's not the title). Notice how serene he is; away from the world's folly. Such a quixotic dream for me.

The fine details and color palette got me. The fact that it's indistinguishable from a computer-generated digital photo makes it more interesting. Truth is, it reminded me of my phone's wallpapers at first glance.

I can see myself in this young lady's garb. You know how I'm such a sucker for the old times. How I wish I would have the chance to live in the 1800's as a Senorita like her.

And finally...

That's me trying to certify my presence in the Art Fair Philippines 2014.