On canvas: Our French connection
‘Somewhere in France’ is a rare opportunity to delve deeper into the works of accaimed Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor.
Baldemor’s work on display at the Alliance Française de Manille brings to fore his enduring connection to France, drawing inspiration from its landscapes, people and culture.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF alliance francaise de manille
The Alliance Française de Manille mounts an exhibition that showcases the remarkable artistic journey of the Filipino artist.
“Somewhere in France” celebrates painter Manuel Baldemor’s extensive artistic explorations in France, dating back to 1973, when he represented the Philippines at the XIV International Exhibition in Paris.
Opened on Thursday, the collection highlights the artist’s technical mastery and his dedication to bridging cultures and fostering understanding between the Philippines and the world.
It brings to fore his enduring connection to France, drawing inspiration from its landscapes, people and culture.
Renowned for his distinctive folk style that celebrates Filipino cultural heritage, he first gained international recognition with his pen-and-ink depictions of his hometown: Paete, Laguna.
The artist went on to win major awards, including the Grand Prize at the Art Association of the Philippines Art Competition.
A recipient of the Thirteen Artists Award in 1992, Baldemor has expanded his creative boundaries through various mediums, including watercolor, oil, ceramics and printmaking.
His work, deeply rooted to Filipino tradition, also embraces global artistic practices, influenced by his residencies and collaborations across Europe, Asia, the Americas, the Middle East.
“Somewhere in France” is a rare opportunity to delve deeper into the works of Baldemor, spanning multiple decades of his career.
The exhibit is on view until 25 January at the Alliance Française de Manille Gallery, located on 209 Nicanor Garcia, Bel Air II, Makati.