If you were to paint 2020 on a single canvas, what would the image look like? They say, "a photo is worth a thousand words," but with all the challenges Filipinos are facing now, many would just want to drop the paintbrush and forget the whole year.
But the fight still continues for many local artists. And, naturally, the best way for them to overcome these hurdles is through their art.
Continuing its promotion to support local artists and high-quality prints, Shelter Fund, an initiative led by Shutterspace Studio, launched a new print sale called Print Jam 2020.
The Shelter Fund started during the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) period of May and June, providing a much-needed assistance to over 300 local artists and photographers by selling their works online.
"Like everybody else, artists’ and photographers’ lives have been upended by these uncertain times," says Jason Quibilan, founder of Shelter Fund. "Aside from job cuts, fear of Covid-19, mental health issues, and economic concerns, it has also been especially trying for creatives to get back to creating."
As the effects of the pandemic have extended far beyond the ECQ, Shelter Fund is once again mobilizing by launching Print Jam 2020. Artists and photographers have another chance to showcase their work and have an alternative risk-free income through this print-on-demand initiative.
Happening until Nov. 20, Print Jam 2020 is featuring over 500 new, original, and signed artworks for sale from 200 local artists, illustrators, and photographers. All prints are produced using archival-grade materials and processes with options for framing as well.
"About 80 percent of the participants of Print Jam 2020 were part of the original Shelter Fund initiative, and participating in Print Jam was a no-brainer for them," Jason tells Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. "The new crop of artists and photographers were actually referred to us by these OGs."
With an improved website, all print orders including framing can be conveniently made with secure payments via PayPal at www.shelterfund.ph.
Also, in light of the past typhoons that perished the lives of many Filipinos in different parts of the country, 10 percent of the Print Jam 2020's total sale will go to local government units that need assistance for emergency aid and rehabilitation efforts for typhoon victims.
"As with many things, purpose gives meaning. To be appreciated, to be part of something bigger, to be thought of as valuable, all these help people get their lives back in order. It helps refocus, to give perspective," he says. "When we work with artists, when we show their work and produce it for them, we become part of a solution, of an effort, to correct and regain our bearings. We help artists be productive again and in turn, these artists and photographers, and their work, inspire us all."
About the art pieces:
What types of papers are to be used?
Ilford GALERIE Gold Fibre Silk (310gsm) will be used for photos and Ilford GALERIE Cotton Artist Textured (310gsm) will be used for art illustrations.
What are the available colors of frames?
Frames are standard ¾ inch thick box frames available in black, white, natural wood, and dark wood finishes.
What are the sizes of the print?
Prints are available in A2, A3, A4, and A5 sizes.
What are the modes of payment?
Payments can be made in-website using the following through PayPal:
- All major credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, Discovery, & American Express credit cards)
- All major debit cards (VISA, MasterCard debit cards from local banks, Discovery, AmEx)
- GCash Mastercard
- PayMaya VISA or MasterCard cards or virtual cards
- GrabPay virtual card.
How are the prints packed?
A2, A3 & A4 prints will be rolled individually into 3” diameter hard tubes. A5 prints will be packed flat in hard boards. Framed prints are bubble wrapped.
Can the prints be delivered?
Buyers can pick up their orders or book their own couriers at Shutterspace Studios in Katipunan, Quezon City.
Who are the beneficiaries?
Bulk of sales from Print Jam 2020 go straight to the artist.
Are these signed?
Prints will be individually signed by the artist. Artists who are not based in Metro Manila will issue a Certificate of Authenticity with their actual signature.
Do you ship internationally?
Shipping fee must be shouldered by the buyer.
Clients will be asked to send their postal code for us to get a quote from DHL.
Are the prints numbered?
All featured prints for Print Jam 2020 are open editions.
Check out more arworks @shelterfundph.