Creativity with conscience

“We challenge ourselves to grow not just in size, but in meaning and experience,” said Marimel Francisco at the preview for the upcoming ArteFino 2025, held at SOFA in Proscenium, Rockwell.

While the sneak peek offered an exciting glimpse into the much-awaited event, Francisco proudly announced that this year, ArteFino has “expanded its footprint,” now spread around PowerPlant Mall like never before.

Already regarded as the biggest and most anticipated artisanal trade fair in the metro each year, ArteFino on its ninth outing puts the focus back on its purpose and reason for being: HeArteFino and its programs.

The fundraiser founded by Maritess Pineda, Mita Rufino, Susie Quiros, Cedie Lopez-Vargas and Marimel Francisco has evolved to become an incubator of local talent, a community of conscious retailers and cultural movement.

“This year, we wanted to put HeArteFino at the forefront,” the team shares. “It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the many things happening around the fair. Yes, it is a retail experience — one that you have to immerse in to fully appreciate. But it is important that we return to what anchors everything we do: HeArteFino.”

Since its inception, the non-stock, non-profit organization and its long-term developmental programs have helped chosen communities around the countries to preserve, elevate and grow their local craft. These include the Bagobo Tagabawa community from Davao, weavers from Argao, Cebu, and artisans of Kabankalan in Negros Occidental.

Just last June, Project Nova UpCycled from Bohol was announced as the recipient of the HeArteFino Developmental Program Grant. “Advocacy is the core. We exist because we believe that craft is not just about beauty, but about equity, access, and impact,” asserts the team.

Featured in this year’s fair are pieces by Zarah Juan for HeArteFino. The collection, aptly dubbed Full Circle, explores the use of natural dyes, which she learned during an immersion experience in Jakarta. “I wanted to return to my roots,” says the renowned accessories designer. “Nine years ago, I started my creative journey with ArteFino, and it felt so natural that I would return here with a new perspective.”

ArteFino Fair will run from 26 July to 3 August.BAGOYAN