From canvas to court: Manny Cabrera and Japeth Aguilar mount ‘Layers of Expression’

Belmont Hotel Manila once again becomes a creative hub with the launch of its sixth iteration of its Hiraya Art Exhibit, Layers of Expression, spotlighting two compelling figures whose artistic journeys may differ, but converge in imagination and emotion.

The featured artists, Manny Cabrera and Japeth Aguilar, are both bringing deeply personal narratives to their works. Though they come from different worlds — one from the visual arts, the other from professional sports — they meet on canvas in a celebration of color, depth, and inner truth.

Manny Cabrera: A surrealist with a story to tell

Pampanga-based artist Cabrera has long been recognized for his distinctive visual style, one that fuses elements of animation, surrealism, and pop culture. His vibrant palette and whimsical compositions are deceptively playful, often concealing layered reflections on identity, memory, and the evolving Filipino experience. Cabrera’s works are not just visual feasts; they are complex, symbolic journeys that invite viewers to look again, and deeper.

Japeth Aguilar: Beyond the hardwood

Best known for his towering presence in Philippine basketball, Aguilar surprises many as he unveils a different kind of expression — quiet, introspective and raw. With each brushstroke, Aguilar reveals emotional terrain often unseen by fans: vulnerability, reflection and the inner world of a public figure off the court. His paintings reflect a meditative process, one that proves that creativity has no singular form and that even athletes carry rich, unspoken narratives.

A platform for Filipino expressions

“This is what Hiraya is about — giving artists a platform to tell their stories,” says Sonny Alvaro, cluster general manager of Belmont Hotel Manila. “It’s always exciting to see how each exhibit unfolds, and this one is particularly special because of the unexpected synergy between Manny and Japeth.”

Mayann Malapote, director of Operations, echoed the sentiment: “Japeth’s paintings show a side of him many haven’t seen — one filled with emotion and imagination. Hiraya continues to be a space where we celebrate Filipino creativity, and we hope this exhibit leaves guests inspired.”

The exhibit is open to the public at the hotel lobby of Belmont Hotel Manila from 11 June to August. Through Layers of Expression, visitors are invited to witness the power of art to cross disciplines, identities, and expectations.

True to the spirit of its name, Hiraya — a word that evokes dreams and visions taking shape —the exhibit affirms Belmont Hotel’s ongoing mission to spotlight homegrown talent and to cultivate a deeper appreciation for Filipino artistry in all its forms.