Exquisite Works and Objects of Art to be Auctioned Online at Leon Exchange XV

Leòn XV is the online auction of León Gallery. This is the 15th edition under the Leonexchange platform and will be held on May 30 and 31, 2020 (Saturday and Sunday) starting at 11AM. All bidding will be purely online at www.leonexchange.com.

Highlights of the auction include several beautiful furniture pieces and objects of art. For French designer Philippe Starck, brilliant design should improve people’s lives in a way that it should not compromise an object’s usefulness. He gained an international reputation for this populist vision for design and his masterful addition of elements of humor and surprise in his interior and product designs. An innovative visionary, he aims to push the limits of contemporary design by making it certain that inventiveness must not overshadow the essential qualities of a product. Through the years, he has made more than 10,000 designs in which one can see his preference for not just the inclusion of subtle, playful details, but also for fluid, organic forms. He also opts for sustainable, eco-friendly designs.

A part of the Golden Age of modern Danish design, Hans J. Wegner is one of the most prolific and innovative Danish furniture designers. Also called the “Master of the Chair,” Wegner produced almost five hundred chairs in his lifetime. He is behind the iconic Wishbone Chair that is still being produced since 1950. He began his apprenticeship when he was just fourteen with another renowned Danish cabinetmaker H.F. Stahlberg. He then moved to Copenhagen to study in the School of Arts and Crafts from 1936 to 1938. A modern cabinet from his design studio is included in the upcoming auction.

This elegant and timeless Ah Tay boasts all the attributes of a truly unique and enduring classic. The name Ah Tay is one that holds almost universal acclaim amongst antiquarians, social historians, and ardent antique hobbyists. While the name can be confidently attributed to a workshop in Binondo, Manila that churned out quality and masterful works between 1860 to 1920, certain information, especially those surrounding Ah Tay’s full name and background were lost to the vagaries of history. The elder Ah Tay’s son, Eduardo Ah Tay, attempted to continue his father’s legacy throughout the American colonial period, but failed to adopt the inherent spontaneity of his father’s oeuvres. Ah Tay furniture is known for their impeccable craftsmanship and meticulous design, elevating them to symbols of status and regalia for the rich, powerful and popular. Collectors queue up with a checkbook in hand, ready to cough-up a considerable amount in order to gain the privilege of viewing the exquisite piece at their own pleasure. This particular piece has all the hallmarks of a genuine Ah Tay aparador, from its seamless Chinese-style joinery, to its faultless proportions, and its extremely fine yet palpable details. This aparador also boasts an early art nouveau style, a school of art that heavily draws from our natural surroundings.

Another highlight is the mesa altar or the Christian altar table, an important Roman Catholic image and was also one of the earliest pieces of Spanish-Filipino furniture. In Bulacan, a furniture-making tradition flourished from around 1800 until after World War II. The furniture designs were European neoclassical, the woods used were golden narra and kamagong, and the decorations were carabao bone, kamagong or mother-of-pearl inlays. Bulacan, produced this type of neoclassical, bone-and kamagong–inlaid mesa altar with a bow front, three drawers, and four square. The general look is reminiscent of an English / American Sheraton-type sideboard and that was why local antique dealers and agents termed such pieces as “Sheraton.”

Some of the most sought after works of art by these prolific artists will go under the hammer. Betsy Westendorp, known for works that have atmospheric, dream-like sceneries with a tone of tranquility and seascapes with elements such as flora and fauna; Jigger Cruz, whose shocking use of color and defacement create powerful abstractions; Juvenal Sanso, the Filipino-Spanish master acclaimed for his highly evocative impressionistic landscapes; Nemesio Miranda, Considered the creator and forerunner of the Imaginative Figurism school of art and a pioneer to the philosophy of expression rather a strict and regimented technique; and Augusto Albor’s use of space, the sparseness of presences, and an apparent attitude towards art as objecthood for a visually purifying and minimalist experience

These visual masterpieces complete the array of collectibles on the block alongside alluring jewelry, crystal and silver pieces, chinoiserie, fine China, coffee table books, and rare photographs for a truly complete and exciting sale.

“One can indulge his or her taste for the beautiful items at various price points at the upcoming online auction and all that from one’s armchair or boudoir. The online auction gives clients the convenience of bidding through their mobiles, tablets or laptops, without having to trek all the way to where physical auctions happen,” Leòn Gallery Director Jaime Ponce de Leon. This convenience makes online auctions at lower starting bids—but no less fabulous pieces—trending.

It’s as simple as going to www.leonexchange.com to view the lots and register as a buyer. Visit www.leon-gallery.com or contact info@leon-gallery.com or call 8856-2781 for more information.

UNIQLO Introduces Its Latest EZY Ankle Pants Collection With Its 2Way Stretch Fabric and New Silhouettes

Japanese global apparel retailer, UNIQLO, updates its EZY Ankle Pants lineup that features comfortable, elastic fabric in sleek style and colors that can be worn with ease on any occasion.

In line with UNIQLO’s commitment to continuously innovate its LifeWear pieces, the latest EZY Ankle Pants has a 2-Way stretch fabric that stretches vertically and horizontally for ultimate comfort and fit. It also has a front open design and waist with hidden rubbers, belt loops and drawcords. These pants are updated to a clean and flattering trouser-look that can be styled from day to night along with other key LifeWear pieces.

For Work Wear

Pair your UNIQLO’s EZY Ankle Pants (2Way Stretch) with UNIQLO’s EFC Oversized LS Shirt and U Crew Neck SS T-shirt to elevate your style at work. This easy-care pants is made of wool-like material and improved with two-way stitch for a more comfortable fit and trendy modern look.

For Casual Days

Featuring a flared silhouette for a more flattering look, UNIQLO’s EZY Flared Ankle Pants (2Way Stretch) can be matched easily with Uniqlo Rayon Long Sleeve Blouse and U Crew Neck Shirt for the casual weekends. The EZY Flared Ankle Pants is wrinkle-resistant for easy care, even after washing.

For After Hours

Wear your EZY Ankle Pants (2Way Stretch) with Packaged Dry Color Crew Neck Shirt, Linen Blended V Neck Cardigan, and Supima Cotton Crew Neck LS Sweater for a cool relaxed fit, in style and comfort for anytime of the day.

The latest lineup of UNIQLO EZY Ankle Pants is available in all UNIQLO stores nationwide at PHP 1490.

For more updates, customers may visit UNIQLO Philippines’ website at www.uniqlo.com/ph and follow social media accounts, Facebook (facebook.com/uniqlo.ph), Twitter (twitter.com/uniqloph) and Instagram (Instagram.com/uniqlophofficial).

About UNIQLO LifeWear

Apparel that comes from the Japanese values of simplicity, quality and longevity. Designed to be of the time and for the time, LifeWear is made with such modern elegance that it becomes the building blocks of each individual’s style. A perfect shirt that is always being made more perfect. The simplest design hiding the most thoughtful and modern details. The best in fit and fabric made to be affordable and accessible to all. LifeWear is clothing that is constantly being innovated, bringing more warmth, more lightness, better design, and better comfort to people’s lives.

About UNIQLO and Fast Retailing

UNIQLO is a brand of Fast Retailing Co., Ltd., a leading Japanese retail holding company with global headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. UNIQLO is the largest of eight brands in the Fast Retailing Group, the others being GU, Theory, Helmut Lang, PLST (Plus T), Comptoir des Cotonniers, Princesse tam.tam and J Brand. With global sales of approximately 2.2905 trillion yen for the 2019 fiscal year ending August 31, 2019 (US $21.53 billion, calculated in yen using the end of August 2019 rate of $1 = 106.4 yen), Fast Retailing is one of the world’s largest apparel retail companies, and UNIQLO is Japan’s leading specialty retailer.

UNIQLO continues to open large-scale stores in some of the world’s most important cities and locations, as part of its ongoing efforts to solidify its status as a global brand. Today the company has more than 2,200 stores in 25 markets including Japan. In alphabetical order, the other markets are Australia, Belgium, Canada, China, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Netherlands, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, U.K. U.S. and Vietnam. In addition, UNIQLO established a social business in Bangladesh together with the Grameen Bank in 2010, and today there are several Grameen-UNIQLO stores in Dhaka.

With a corporate statement committed to changing clothes, changing conventional wisdom and change the world, Fast Retailing is dedicated to creating great clothing with new and unique value to enrich the lives of people everywhere. For more information about UNIQLO and Fast Retailing, please visit www.uniqlo.com and www.fastretailing.com.

Nippon Paint recognizes winners of the Asia Young Designer Award (AYDA) Philippines 2019

Officials of Nippon Paint Philippines led by the company President Mark Webb (center) handed the Asia Young Designer Awards (AYDA) Philippines 2019 winners their cash prizes and trophies in a ceremony at PETA Theter Center in Quezon City on January 23, 2020. The gold award for the architecture category was given to John Carlo De Jesus from the Bulacan State University (BulSU) while the Interior Design category top prize was bagged by Abigail Florence Taghoy of University of San Carlos University (USC) Cebu. Both went home with the P50,000 cash prize.

After the fun filled and painstaking process of creating your designs to entry submission, leading into the judges’ deliberating and critiques, the Asia Young Designer Awards (AYDA) Philippines 2019 recognized the winners during the awards ceremonies held at the PETA Theater Center in Quezon City on January 23, 2020.

The gold award with a cash prize worth of P50,000 for the architecture category was given to John Carlo De Jesus from the Bulacan State University (BulSU) while the silver award with a cash prize of P30,000 was awarded to John Harold Siblag of St. Mary’s University of Bayumbong.

Meanwhile, for the Interior Design category, Abigail Florence Taghoy of University of San Carlos University (USC) in Cebu bagged the gold award and P50, 000 cash prize while the silver award with a P30,000 prize money went to Clarice Limsui of De La Salle -College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB).

The gold awardees for AYDA 2019 will go to the Asia Young Designer Summit to compete with the best Architecture and Interior Design students in Asia which will be held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam in March 2020. The winners will battle for the chance to be included in the Harvard University Graduate School of Design’s Design Discovery Program.

Aside from the major prizes, special awards were also given to other participants during the ceremony. For Architecture, the Best in Color Choice Award went to Christian Adrian Manalo of Batangas State University (BSU). Meanwhile the Best Green Innovation Award was given to John Carlo De Jesus and the People’s Choice Award to Johann Orozco, both from BulSU. Best Mentor in this category was awarded to Ar. Diane Alfonso. Also, Bulacan State University was declared The Best College/University, and The Best Supportive School award for the Architecture category went to the Far Eastern University (FEU).

For the Interior Design category, the Best Color Choice award went to Michael lGarbriel Vazquez of DLS-CSB, while Josette Thai of UP Diliman won the Best Green Innovation Award. The People’s Choice award went to Erika Mari Ordinario of DLS-CSB. The University of San Carlos Cebu was named The Best Collge/University and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde which was declared the Most Supportive School Dr. Hermie Ray Oplado from The University of San Carlos was awarded Best Mentor for the Interior Design category.

Nippon Paint Philippines President Mark Webb led the awarding ceremonies along with the distinguished panel of judges. Webb affirmed AYDA 2019 was the perfect opportunity to highlight the best young talents of the country and showcase their brilliance to the international arena. He also thanked the mentors and academic partners who patiently guided, motivated and shared their expertise to the students, and for allowing them to join. He added that Nippon Paintis proud to be part of the initiative in elevating the amazing Filipino skills and talent.

AYDA 2019 is a design competition open to Architecture and Interior Design students. The panel of judges is composed of prominent and well-established industry professionals and was supported by the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP), Council of Deans and Heads of Architecture Schools in the Philippines (CODHASP), the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID), and the Council of Interior Design Educators (CIDE).

Visit www.youngdesigneraward.ph or visit www.nipponpaint.ph for more details and updates.

Nippon Paint Philippines to hold the Asia Young Designer Awards 2019

Nippon Paint (Coatings) Philippines, Inc. announced the holding of the search for the Asia Young Designer Awards (AYDA) for the year 2019 during a media launch held at the Hotel Jen in Pasay City.

Now on its 11th year, AYDA 2019, which carries the theme “FORWARD: A Sustainable Future,” encourages bright and creative Architecture and Interior Design students to use their talents to transform future environments and create significant impact in the succeeding generations by providing practical design solutions.

Today, designers face the challenge of providing a balance between urbanization and sustainability, at a time when digitalization or connectivity takes over inter-personal bonding, when going local should also be fit for global appreciation. Which needs should prevail, the individual or that of the community?

Thus, it is up to this new breed of architecture and interior design students to come up with designs that are realistic within the urban context and totally sustainable for future generations to come.

The AYDA 2019 is a design competition open to Architecture and Interior Design students (third-year onwards). Each student is allowed to submit One (1) entry. Deadline for submission of entries is on November 22, 2019. The entry should be in a CD or USB in a folder marked “Presentation Board” with files in JPEG format at 300dpi resolution, together with a present copy of a valid school ID, a completely filled-out entry form together with a 2 x 2 photo (300dpi) in JPEG format and should be mailed to Nezrald Landicho of Nippon Paint Marketing, Nippon Paint (Coatings) Philippines, Inc., G/F CSP Building, 173 EDSA, Mandaluyong City.

Criteria for judging in the Architecture category is Sustainable Design Concept (20%), Design Innovation (15%), Color Usage (10%), Planning and Functionality (20%), Sustainability and Relevance (15%), Aesthetic and Visual Impact (10%), Theme Compatibility and Forward Thinking (5%), and Delivery and Presence (5%). For the Interior Design category, judging is based on Design Concept (20%), Design Innovation (15%), Color Usage (15%), Planning and Functionality (20%), Sustainability and Relevance (15%) Theme Compatibility and Forward Thinking (10%), and Delivery and Presence (5%).

Prizes include Php50,000 cash prize and an internship opportunity at JSLA Architects (for Architecture category) and internship opportunity at AIDEA and Santa Fe Interior Architecture Sdn Bhd (for Interior Design category). Plus, a once-in-a-lifetime chance to go abroad and compete against AYDA Gold Awardees from 14 other countries to be proclaimed “Asia Young Designer of the Year,” which comes with an all-expense-paid, 6-week learning experience under the Design Discovery Program of the Harvard University School of Design in the US.

The Silver Award winners for both categories will receive Php 30,000 cash prize and an internship opportunity at JSLA Architects (for Architecture category), while the other 8 finalists will each receive Php 10,000 cash prize. Other special awards include “Best Mentor” for the professors of the Gold Award winners, and “People’s Choice” award for the design that will garner the “Most Number of Likes” in social media, where each special award carries a Php 10,000 prize, plus “Best Color Choice” and “Best Green Innovation,” where the winners will receive Php 5,000 each.

The “Best College/University” and the “Best Supporting College/University,” meanwhile, will win Php 10,000 cash and Php 10,000 worth of paint voucher.

The Judges’ Panel for AYDA 2019 include some of the best and the brightest minds in the Architecture and Interior Design industry in the country. For Interior Design, the judges’ panel is joined by IDr. Chat Fores, founder of the Chat Fores Design Studio, IDr. Cynthia Almario and IDr. Ivy Almario, co-founders of Atelier Almario, IDr. Wilfrid Nicholo Magcase, Principal Designer, W.M. Magcase Design, IDr. Cara Marie Marcelo, Founder, CMM Interior Design and Consultancy, and IDr. Fendarie Su, founder of the Santa Fe Interior Architecture Sdn Bhd based in Ampang, Malaysia.

For Architecture, the panel is joined by Ar. Ana Mangalino-Ling, Partner and Associate, JSLA Architects, with Ar. Rene Richie Corcuera, Director for UAP Commission in Professional Practices, Ar. Maria Benita Regala, National President (2014-2016) of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) and Department Manager, Housing Technology Development Office, National Housing Authority (NHA), Ar. Nina Bailon-Arce, Partner, Arce-Bailon-Arce Architects, Ar. Boon Che Wee, Director, GRA Architects Sdn Bhd based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Ar. Leo Pariñas, President and Chief Executive Officer, LPPA Design Group, Ar. Randel Leona, Chairman for UAP National Committee on Competitions, Managing Director, Leona Design Builders, Consultant, Sure Source Design Construction, and Ar. Kristine Mae Sanao, Chief Executive Officer, KMAS Design and Vice Chairman for UAP National Committee on Competitions.

The Nippon Paint Young Designer Awards (NPYDA) was first introduced in 2008 to inspire interior design and architecture students to apply creativity and innovation in modern design. Judges were among the best and reputable architects and interior designers in the region. It started off with just Malaysia and later reached 14 other countries to include the Philippines, Singapore, Bangladesh, Thailand, Pakistan, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Vietnam, China, Japan and Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, India, and Taiwan.

The AYDA is judged by prominent and well-established industry professionals and is supported by the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP), Council of Deans and Heads of Architecture Schools in the Philippines (CODHASP), the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID), and the Council of Interior Design Educators (CIDE).

For more about AYDA 2019 and to download the AYDA 2019 Entry Kit, go to www.youngdesigneraward.ph. To know more about Nippon Paint Coatings Philippines, go to www.nipponpaint.ph.

Robinsons Kidz Club Fair brings a world of learning and fun for kids at Robinsons Townville

Play, learn and having fun are just some of the things that kids can expect from the first Robinsons Kidz Club Fair happening across the Robinsons Townville malls for the whole month of March. Robinsons Kidz Club is the membership club of the Robinsons Townville malls for kids 3 to 12 years old. Members get exclusive access to the various kiddie events of Robinsons Townville including the Robinsons Kidz Club Fair, and a free birthday gift each year.

Last March 23, the Robinsons Kidz Club Fair was a massive hit among kids at the Robinsons Townville Buhay Na Tubig. Various activities were prepared for Robinsons Kidz Club members wherein they learned the science of colors through interactive games and activities which include coloring activities, color wheel making and a special light & color science presentation. They also had fun putting their creativity into action by mixing and matching colorful beads during the friendship bracelet making activity.

“We believe that children best learn through fun and play that’s why we are continuously coming up with events and activities that will not only entertain children but would serve as a platform as well for our Robinsons Kidz Club members to learn,” says Joel Delfin, the AVP for the Robinsons Townville malls.

There are a lot of events in store for the Robinsons Kidz Club members this year continuing with the grand event this April 21 entitled ‘A Magical Easter’. Members can expect fun games and a whole lot of fun as they are invited to come in their cutest unicorn costumes. That’s a magical and one of a kind Easter celebration for the Robinsons Kidz Club members.

Sounds exciting? Register to Robinsons Kidz Club in the link below.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSctpIDAbsnvKziM3kbiEHFU7sN-1EeHzWZDPyQ6MpZ5mJmHBQ/viewform

The Robinsons Townville malls is the chain of community malls of the Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc. in six locations in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija, Pulilan and Meycauayan in Bulacan, Fairview in Quezon City, BF Homes in Parañaque, and Buhay na Tubig in Imus. Several locations are already in the pipeline to aggressively increase its portfolio.

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Website: www.robinsonstownville.ph

Asian Cultural Council partners with Leon Gallery for benefit auction

Rare masterpiece works, furniture, and important historical documents shine under the spotlight in the Asian Cultural Council Art Auction 2019.

A partnership with Leon Gallery five years running, the auction will benefit the ACC Philippines Fellowship Program, which has helped hone home-grown artists and produced eight Philippine National Artists including Lamberto Avellana, Francisco Feliciano, Jose Joya, Lucrecia Kasilag, Jose Maceda, Alice Reyes, Ramon Santos, and Kidlat Tahimik.

Established in 2000, the ACC Philippines Foundation has been giving four to six grants every year, according to Director Teresa Rances.

“Our partnership with Leon Gallery has been very fruitful and it’s especially thanks to Jaime Ponce de Leon,” Rances says. “He has a very big heart for Filipino artists.”

This year, over 100 lots will be up for bidding including a rare Lorenzo Guerrero, “Manila” (1868) oil on wood; a pair of signed Damian Domingo watercolor on paper “Una India de Manila” and “Un Indio Noble de Manila”; Anita Magsaysay-Ho’s “Sineguelas Gatherers” and “Two Women”; Vicente Manansala’s “Ang Pulubi” (1979) and a 34×50 Amorsolo “Cooking Under the Mango Tree”.

Also up for auction will be H. R. Ocampo’s “Nude” (1970), Ronald Ventura’s “Untitled” (2014), Lao Lianben’s “Asian-3” (1989), and BenCab’s “Draped Figure III” (2010).

There will also be a lot of Juan Luna watercolor sketches, as well as the artist’s actual leather pencil case.

A narra and rattan four-poster bed from the last quarter of the 19th century by foremost furniture maker Ah Tay will also be up for biding. Isabelo Tampinco is represented by a rare divan (aka Cleopatra) that displays all his iconic motifs. A first for this auction is a lyrical hat rack in kamagong designed by Maximo Viola, Jose Rizal’s best friend in Europe.

ACC fellows will also have works up for bidding including Anton del Castillo’s “Kapit Lang”, oil on gold leaf; Riel Hilario’s “The Guardian of One’s Flowering and Fruition”, carved wood; Dex Fernandez’s “Barred in the Wilderness”, acrylic, ink, thread on paper; Ambie Abano’s “Malaya”, woodcut on textile on board with canvas painted with acrylic; Leeroy New’s “Moonscape”, fiberglass, automotive paint, epoxy, wooden frame; and Sam Penaso’s “Humanscape”, acrylic on stainless.

“2019 is a milestone year as we celebrate the 5th anniversary of the Asian Cultural Council Philippines Foundation’s amazing partnership with Leon Gallery,” ACCPF Chairman Ernest Escaler says. “With profound gratefulness, we recall the past four years as grace-filled opportunities for charity through our fundraising campaigns bannered as the ACCPF Art Auction. Our events would not have been as successful if not through the leadership and acumen of Jaime Ponce de Leon and his tireless team.”

Ayala Malls Solenad is inviting families to open their world and celebrate holiday traditions old and new through its Awaken Amazing Holiday Campaign.

With its proximity to Tagaytay and its cool climate, plus wonderful outdoor spaces, Solenad is the ideal place to enjoy the outdoors and rediscover the magic of play and traditional games this holiday season. Marvel at playgrounds transformed with enchanting holiday décor and giant installations, breathe in the fresh air around the lake under the stars and enjoy the outdoors at the Activity Park.

Solenad is a wonderful holiday getaway for families with its magical combination of both indoor and outdoor spaces. They can combine shopping for gifts with outdoor activities like biking and boat rides, then dine al-fresco at Solenad’s many restaurants to feel the great ‘ber months weather.

This holiday season, Solenad will be home to the cheeriest and merriest surprises through an exciting line-up of activities like the annual Festival of Lights and their first ever 3D mapping display. This Christmas is the perfect time to not only celebrate traditions but to create new ones as Solenad invites everyone to open their world and enjoy the outdoors in all its holiday splendor.

Check out Solenad’s holiday calendar and awaken your Christmas spirit with experiences and activities galore!

Shop at the Awaken Amazing Thrills and Deals Christmas Sale

Get the perfect gifts for your loved ones at the Awaken Amazing Thrills and Deals Christmas Sale happening now until November 11, with offers of up to 50% off at participating stores. You won’t go home empty handed too as you get to pick a prize with every P1,000 purchase during the sale and get free gift wrapping.

Experience the Magic of Play through Awit at Laro

Catch musical performances from father and son duo, Gary Valenciano and Gab Valenciano, singer-songwriter Yeng Constantino, rising star Hannah Pangilinan, and classical performer Lara Maigue, as well as a special dance number from STEPS Dance Studio. You can also play traditional games at interactive booths at the Awit at Laro Mall Show happening tonight at the Solenad Activity Park.

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A project that celebrates the spirit of play, Awit at Laro draws inspiration from Filipino children’s games and aims to raise funds for UNICEF, Tukod Foundation and the Shining Light Foundation. With a vision of reintroducing traditional games to a new generation of youth through music and the arts, Awit at Laro is led by Gary Valenciano and Bambi Manosa with the help of over 100 artists.

Awit at Laro will also be brought to life through the Larong Pinoy Installation. From November 17 – 24, Solenad will be full of colorful, larger than life displays of favorite Filipino games like kites, Tumbang Preso, Piko and more!

Let the Light Shine at Solenad’s Lantern Making Competition

Happening on November 24 – 25, Solenad’s Lantern Making Competition will transform the mall atrium into a festival of lights. Open to all residents of Laguna, contestants can submit their entry at Solenad from November 17 – 23. Lanterns will be on display starting November 24 and shoppers will also be treated to the “Let your Light Shine” Live Art Exhibition.

The announcement and awarding of the winners will happen during a festive program on November 25 with musical performances from various groups. Interested shoppers can visit www.facebook.com/AyalaMallsSolenad for the complete contest mechanics.

Enjoy Heartwarming Holiday Performances

Be serenaded by heartwarming holiday music as Solenad offers vibrant holiday shows for everyone to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas as internationally-awarded Manila Symphony Journey Orchestra is set to perform on November 11, 6:30 PM. Sing along to your favorite Christmas songs at the Christmas Cantata happening on December 1, 4:30PM and December 22 -23, 6PM at the Solenad Activity Park or rock out to December Avenue as they perform live in Solenad on December 2, 7PM.

Experience Christmas with local holiday treats and items

Awaken your taste buds with delicacies from the CALABARZON area at the Department of Tourism’s Kain Na! Food Fair happening on December 7- 9. Expand your food horizons and try dishes from Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon and enjoy demos from local chefs, performances and more!

Give back in this Season of Giving

Make Christmas merry for those who deserve it the most and awaken the spirit of giving with Laruang Aguinaldo – Ayala Malls’ holiday toy drive for the benefit of UNICEF and Kids 4 Kids. You can drop by Red Tag by Rustans today and Toys R Us from November 16 to December 16 and give kids more time to play, beyond Christmas.

Be dazzled by even bigger outdoor spectacles

While the fireworks and light shows have already become a tradition, Ayala Malls Solenad is making the season even more dazzling with 3D projection mapping shows happening from December 14 – 16 at the Solenad Activity Park. Created in partnership with Panasonic and inspired by the Filipino tradition of Simbang Gabi, awaken your senses and enjoy this all new show with your friends and family.

From wonderful shopping and dining, to heartwarming art installations, holiday decoration and merry musical performances, Solenad is giving families refreshing new ways to celebrate their holiday traditions. Awaken your senses and open your world this Christmas at Ayala Malls Solenad!

What would the ideal workspace for millennials look like?

If an imposing or isolated desk, and a nameplate on the door defined the ideal office space of the 80s and 90s, today’s employees want the exact opposite. With millennials taking over the workforce, it’s time to reconsider just how at tune an existing work space is with their needs.

Founder and owner of the BOOGI concept and furniture store, Burkhardt Zipperich, said that the workspace needed today is one that is responsive to the needs of its users at a particular time.

“Millennials require more than just a desk and chair; they need space that can easily adapt to the need at hand – whether it is for them to prevent external distractions, or to create a space that would be conducive for collaboration and the free flow of ideas,” Zipperich said.

Meeting the needs of millennials are ergonomic, functional, and cool office furniture pieces from some of the multi-awarded European furniture brands housed in BOOGI. One particular brand that stands out is Actiu, one of the most innovative Spanish furniture brands that have been consistently receiving awards in its home country and across Europe.

Banking on its Cool Working Space ideology, Actiu has designed workspace furniture, taking into consideration the changing individual functions and the various ways of collaboration. Initially implemented in their offices across the globe, the Cool Working Space business strategy eventually found its way into the design concept.

In February, Actiu was bestowed with the National Innovation and Design Award by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain. Dubbed as the highest award for design in Spain, it recognized the excellence and exemplary career of Actiu in the field of design and innovation.

“The Cool Working Space of Actiu actually promotes collaboration, improves focus, and enhances team work. But the best thing about the workspace made with Actiu is how it can easily adapt without sacrificing its primary functions,” said Zipperich.

BOOGI is located along Arnaiz Avenue in Makati City.

New Design Graduates Training grooms next design leaders

Fifteen young designers are set to exhibit their showpieces as they move on to the next phase of the New Design Graduates Training (NDGT) Program, a track under the Design Center Competency Program which is developed by Design Center of the Philippines, an agency attached to the Department of Trade and Industry.

The NDGT is a year and four months-long program that serves as an avenue where emerging and practicing professionals can enhance their individual competencies through intensive training by an industry recognized Design Mentor and Program Advisors. It also aims to improve the quality, competitiveness and branding of Filipino products in the global market.

The NDGT has three phases with the first phase being – The Incubation, which specifically focuses on strengthening the participants’ philosophy and orientation towards design fundamentals to build their own voice. Activities in the incubation phase include Design Talks to gain further knowledge on creative thinking, design management and design business from several resource persons including the Design Mentor and Program Advisors; Learning Crafts to acquire or increase knowledge of participants on six crafts like pottery, metalworks, handmade paper-making, embroidery, sculpting, molding & casting, and carpentry; Anatomy of Product Design to further understand the design practice and process by dissecting and restructuring the product to learn its materials, processes, labor and skills requirement and price point.

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The second phase is Apprenticeship, which is geared towards a deeper appreciation of craftsmanship, cultural sensitivity, and application of studies from the incubation phase. Still under the guidance of the design mentors, participants will apprentice with select companies in the Philippines, with whom they will provide design assistance to as they also learn about the trade and business. At the same time, designers will also be exposed to various international exhibitions and trade fairs where they can understand and gain insight on the needs of the global market.

The final phase is Atelier where participants will undergo actual design practice in a design firm, applying everything they have learned without the guidance of the Design Mentors. Each phase will have a performance assessment to determine who will proceed with the program.

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“The Design Center aims to cultivate a culture that thrives on creativity, value creation and innovation,” says Design Center of the Philippines executive director Rhea Matute. “At the heart of this program is a design and creative mindset, honing craftsmanship and bringing design back to making things and making them well.”

With the intensive training, the participants were given the opportunity to be closely guided by experienced Design Mentors, Program Advisors and Resource Persons who are highly influential in the international and local design and sourcing communities. Leading the roster are Tony Gonzales and Josef Crisanto, who serve as the Design Mentors of the NDGT. Crisanto is a production designer whose clients include, DTI’s Center for International Trade, Expositions and Missions (CITEM), Dedon, Swarovski, and APY Cane to name a few. He has trained extensively in Europe where he also earned a French Master’s Degree in Design under the mentorship of world-renowned industrial designer Tom Dixon. His work products have been featured in several international exhibits alongside other international designers notably at the “Worldwide” exhibit curated by the French designer Christophe Pillet at the Salon du Meuble and the Swarovski showroom in Paris.

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Meanwhile, Gonzales is an internationally-renowned designer who has been one of the preferred merchandising consultants of CITEM for its most major trade exhibit, Manila FAME. He is also the founder of A Greeting Card Company where several European investors were captured by his cutting-edge card concepts and calendars, thus tapping him to do commissioned works for product design as well as running international design workshops. Since the 90’s, he has consistently won the KATHA Award, an award given to designers and companies who show excellence in arts and design achievements.

For his part, Crisanto says of the graduates, “We are extremely proud to see our first batch of young designers move on to the next phase of the NDGT. Our mission is to groom emerging designers to become the future influencers of the Philippine design industry and we are confident that this will be good bearers of our mission.”

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And among the list of NDGT Participants are Rey Mark Aragon, Julyn Astillero, Gerbert Balaoro, Todd Wyatt Paul Benedicto, Pauline Kimberly Co, Adam Dominiq Domingo, Mark Joecil Escame, Joseph Raphael Espinosa, Louisa Veronica Ilustre, Alexandra Daphne Legaspi, Angel Kris Mayor, Clark Adrian Mendoza, Razel Mari Sta. Rita, Hannah Grace Tusi, and Joseph Yap. The DCDP is also made possible with the support of its partners who have been vital in making the program an immersive experience for the participants.

“The Philippines has plenty of young talented designers who have the power to share the country’s beautiful culture to the world,” says Department of Trade Industry Assistant Secretary Rosario Gaetos. “By producing globally competitive products, they are not only promoting our rich cultural heritage but also helping us achieve sustainable economic growth.”

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Without a doubt, the Design Center Competency Program is proof that the Philippines can elevate the quality, competitiveness and branding of Filipino products in the global market by giving young designers an avenue to enhance their skills and inspire them to showcase their talents locally and internationally.

The Design Center of the Philippines was established in 1970 by founding Executive Director and National Artist for Visual Arts Arturo Luz. Its main mission is to promote the use and appreciation of good design by strengthening the Philippine design industry and improving the range, quality, and thus the competitiveness of Philippine services and products. For more information, visit Design Center of the Philippines website https://designcenter.ph/ and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/DTI.DesignCenterPH/

Feel the sparkle of Christmas at Filinvest City

This holiday season, experience the unique Christmas sparkle only Filinvest City can offer as it brings Christmas closer to the community! Dubbed as “Sparkle of Christmas at Filinvest City,” this year, the city literally sparkles as it adorns more streets with lights and as it enjoins its building locators to participate in its the first-ever Building Christmas décor contest where winners will receive generous prizes. Top billing the celebration is the annual Musical Lights Show that transforms the newly opened Spectrum Linear Park into a Christmas Wonderland. The festivities open on November 23, 2017 for the whole family to enjoy:  a curated bazaar and a magical, never before seen lights show!

“Definitely, we are bringing in something new to this year’s Light Show to make the holidays even merrier and more delightful. It is not just a light show but a holistic in-city Christmas celebration, which means more activities for families and friends to enjoy. So, it is really a community celebration. We are opening more space where people can converge and enjoy the holiday sights and sounds with the garden city as the backdrop,” shares Kate Ilagan, Executive Vice President of Filinvest Alabang Inc., developer of Filinvest City.

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First, there’s the Festino Market that brings together passionate artisans, curated merchants, and talented, up-and-coming chefs who source, grow, bake, make, and create products and wares that they sell, ensuring their goods are delicious, original, and designed to truly inspire–all in a chic and tastefully set-up alfresco market that’s also pet friendly!

Come night fall, gather around the major highlight of the “Sparkle of Christmas at Filinvest City”—the dazzling, state-of-the-art light show together with the amazing and futuristic 3D-mapped giant Christmas tree, a unique visual treat in the Metro that’s sure to delight, excite and leave viewers in absolute awe.

Then, there are the scheduled live performances and enthralling musical entertainment to be kicked-off by Christian Bautista on November 23 at 5:30 p.m. This will be followed by other weekend performances by Spongecola, Ebe Dancel, Sandwich, and many more.

You can also take part in the arts and craft workshop sessions that add to a totally enriching and inspiring day, while other events to look forward to are the Festino Café pop-up coffee experience where you can savour third-wave brews, as well as the automotive trunk show and test drive showcasing the iconic Mini, the sporty Lotus, and endearing Vespa!

All these are situated in an expansive green park setting—the Spectrum Linear Park, Filinvest City’s verdant green spine—the perfect atmosphere to enjoy the event’s many fun offerings!

“We, at Filinvest City, have always been keen about transforming the lives here in the Metro South, thus the idea of hosting an activity during Christmas to give back to the community was created. We are delighted that the Annual Christmas Musical Lights Show has become part of the holiday celebrations, not just of those in Alabang, but of people in neighboring locales as well. That is what inspires us to improve this tradition that we have started year after year,” Ilagan furthers.

 

Indeed, the holiday season becomes extra special as you savor the invigorated Christmas sparkle only at Filinvest City!

The Sparkle of Christmas at Filinvest City runs every weekend from November 23 to December 31, 2017. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/FilinvestCityOFFICIAL/.