‘Para sa Ina: Rust-to-Art’ exhibit runs until April
A year after the launch of its online petition against the construction of a 31-story condominium behind it, the San Sebastian Basilica Conservation and Development Foundation continues its mission to save and protect the Basílica Menor de San Sebastián through various initiatives. One of its latest moves involves Filipino artists as the foundation launched the “Para sa Ina: Rust-to-Art” exhibit last Jan. 28.
More than just the restoration of the all-metal basilica, the exhibit also celebrates and reflects Filipinos devotion to Nuestra Señora del Carmen de San Sebastian and Nuestra Señora de la Salud, two beloved mother figures associated with the church’s history. What makes the showcased pieces unique is that they are imbued with the rust collected from the church.
“The rust serves as a reminder of the commitment of the all-steel church in fostering ties between us and the faith that the church has established,” curator Asst. Prof. Mary Ann Venturina Bulanadi says. “It becomes a new beginning, a renewal of faith, a birthing of new ideas, and best of all, a conduit of our love to the Blessed Mother. It becomes light in a moment of darkness and despair, the way our Mother stands as the light of our homes and hearths.”
“Para sa Ina: Rust-to-Art” aims “to support the people behind the ongoing restoration. Proceeds will allow us to keep moving forward with experts and their teams of skilled workers.” It features 35 art pieces—from paintings, sculptures, and mixed media to watercolor, oil, pastel, acrylic, stainless steel, and beeswax—crafted by 22 artists.
“Para sa Ina: Rust-to-Art” runs until April. Its featured artworks can be viewed and purchased at sansebastianconservation.org.
Get to know more about the history of San Sebastian Basilica and its foundation’s initiative here.
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