Global revelations

Hilaw, Layâ (Unripe, Withered), an outstanding collaboration of Christina Gaston of Hacienda Crafts Company and celebrated artist Leeroy New, explores the balance between growth and natural degradation, inspired by the cycle of life. The exhibit was part of the Biennale Révélations held last 21 to 25 May at the Nef du Grand Palais, Paris, France.

The collaboration brings together two distinct yet complementary approaches to material and making. It features a captivating setting showcasing discs resting on a plant-like brass structure that appears to grow out of the whimsical mound. These colorful objects of arts are made from Cogon grass and sewn with abaca or waxed thread.

Cogon and abaca are harvested and dried first before they work on it. The weaving technique is called coiling, and it takes from half an hour to more depending on the size, shape and intricacy of the disk/cups.

No two discs are alike, for each artisan has their own ‘signature’ style of weaving and mark of distinction. The contrast in colors symbolizes the push and pull between growth and decay -- a reflection of nature’s constant evolution and how people of the land understand its necessity in life.

This masterpiece collaboration is spotlighted in the heart of the Nef du Grand Palais where the international exhibition Le Banquet is located. The Banquet is an exposition that displays the diversity of contemporary art through bold, never-before-seen pieces from 12 regions of the world, highlighting ancestral craftsmanship and innovative creations.

This includes Italy at the center of this exhibition, alongside Quebec and South Korea. Territories such as Bangladesh, Brazil, Georgia, Greece, Ireland, Malaysia (Sarawak, Borneo), Philippines, Ibero-America (Cuba, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru) and the overseas (Polynesia and French Caribbean) are also represented, offering a rich and varied panorama of contemporary artistic expressions. Each space unveils works and installations that reveals a dialogue between cultures and techniques, between tradition and modernity.

The Philippines makes its premiere showcase at Révélations Paris 2025. Aside from Ina Gaston of Hacienda Crafts with collaborator artist Leeroy New, other participants proudly carrying the Philippine flag under the sleeve were Olivia d’Aboville, with Industria Edition and Cebu Interlace Weaving Corp.; Neil Felipp; Jude Tiotuico in collab with Olivia d’Aboville and Rurungan sa Tubod Foundation; Maricris and Jaime Brias for Tadeco Home and national curator of this pioneering effort is celebrated artist Milo Naval and his creations with Shelmed Cottage Treasures.

Most important, this historical showcase on the 7th edition of Biennale Révélations organized by Ateliers d’Art de France wouldn’t have been possible without the DTI- Design Center of the Philippines helmed by esteemed executive director Rhea Matute. Mabuhay ang disenyong Filipino!