OFF THE BEATEN PATH

For many art collectors, the thrill of discovery surpasses mere acquisition. It's a relentless quest to encounter the profound and the evocative, to be transported by the artistry that transcends the canvas and ignites the depths of our being. Last February, the ALT Philippines 2024 exhibit emerged as a beacon of such revelations by Art Informal, Blanc, Finale Art File, West Gallery, The Drawing Room, Mo_Space, Galleria Duemila, Underground and Vinyl on Vinyl. Held within the Mall of Asia complex, the event presented a captivating paradox – an intimate journey through the vast world of art, a testament to the transformative power of innovative curation. When you stepped into the exhibit, it felt like stepping into a dialogue, a conversation between artist and observer, fostered by the deliberate departure from the usual art fair frenzy. Here, the focus was on connection, on allowing the art to breathe and resonate, a stark contrast to the overwhelming sensory overload often experienced in traditional settings.

This deliberate shift is enriching beyond the personal. One of the most pressing issues plaguing the Philippine art scene, is the lack of education surrounding art appreciation and its true value. Indeed, we tend to condemn what we do not fully understand. This lack of understanding fuels misconceptions like art being solely for the wealthy or an unworthy pursuit for those from underprivileged backgrounds. Sadly, these notions often lead talented young individuals with a passion for the arts to be pressured into pursuing “more profitable” career paths, effectively suppressing their artistic potential. This highlights the crucial role of art education in not only fostering appreciation, but also encouraging and empowering budding artists to pursue their creative aspirations. 

While strides have been made in recent years, much remains to be done to cultivate a society that fosters and celebrates art appreciation. I recall what an artist once said regarding the subject of art awards: “True artists don't solely seek recognition as national artists. Their focus is on honing their craft, perfecting their expression. Recognition, if it comes, is an honor or a bonus, but never the driving force.” This resonated deeply with Nick Joaquin's almost refusal to accept the National Artist award for Literature, further emphasizing the intrinsic motivation that drives many artists. As collectors and enthusiasts, it’s these individuals, deeply invested in the pursuit of artistic excellence and the communication of the sublime, who truly enrich our cultural landscape. To the person reading this column, what enamors and changes you?

For 2023, the NCCA had ₱500,215,000 in the National Endowment Fund for Culture and the Arts (NEFCA) and ₱273,663,000 from the Annual General Appropriations Act (GAA). For some, the budget may seem not to translate to sufficient support for the diverse needs of the Philippine art scene especially considering the additional challenges posed by the recent pandemic. Further exploration into alternative funding models and increased budgetary allocations may be necessary to support the numerous artists, institutions, and educational programs crucial for the flourishing of Filipino art. As for the private sector, there is no shortage of initiatives to promote the arts. For one, philanthropy is not limited to the wealthy. We see artists supporting artists and artisans they collaborate with, as no other soul can fully understand the struggles and joys of a budding artist quite like a fellow creative spirit.

This lack of access to art education and the undervaluing of art resonate with the words of novelist Donna Tartt: “Whatever we call beautiful, we quiver before it.” May in our moments of awe we find the same resolve to dismantle notions pervading art and start appreciating it for its own sake. Support your local artist now.