by SARA DE LOS REYES |
In the realm of arts and culture, “Filipino†is becoming synonymous to ingenuity, artistry and the creation of many, many beautiful things the world has learned to seek out. And there’s more where most of these came from. The Philippines’ most celebrated design and lifestyle event is back: Manila FAME is set to open its doors once again this April.
Manila FAME is unlike other trade show-bazaar hybrids as it was “conceptualized as a one-stop shop for high-concept products using indigenous and local materials and an exclusive platform for business matching between exporters and buyers.†It features the best of the best furniture and furnishing, fashion items, holiday gifts and décor by Filipino craftsmen and designers that are all carefully selected.
This year, Manila FAME brings us its “Boutique edition†and will highlight two internationally recognized Filipino designers:
In “Spring Forward,†Ito Kish takes inspiration from the season in his collection of indoor and outdoor accessories. With a combination of 25 years of experience in visual merchandising, Ito’s work has garnered him multiple features in trade shows and publications in Asia and Europe. His personal brand KISH allows him to do rendering design consultancy for commercial and residential spaces with the Amanpulo, Globe Telecom, and Antel model units as some of his works.
(Ito Kish)
Y’ARI by Marian Pastor-Roces is another to watch out for. Finding success partnering with village artisans and designers, Marian’s collection will boast of a very limited, very exclusive collection of bespoke items. Roces is the founder of TAO, Inc., an agency specializing in museum and exhibition curatorship and development, and she enjoys recognition and respect as a critical commentator in the international contemporary art, museology and cultural theory communities.
(Marian Pastor-Roces)
Now on its 63rd run, Manila FAME exhibits have quite literally always been an overwhelming explosion of coveted finds. It truly is a sight to behold – even people watching becomes part of the experience, as attendees themselves can sometimes look just as artsy as the things on display! It is Filipino culture come alive and given a face, attracting both local and foreign guests to marvel at the expanse and assortment of things to take home and people to meet.
“Buyers who come to Manila FAME on a regular basis always comment that they enjoy and benefit from the multi-dimensional experience that only Manila FAME offers,†says Rosvi Gaetos, executive director of CITEM.
Over the years, it has “evolved into a world-class trade show where exhibitors and participants discover globally responsive networks and products, all contributing to the color and richness of Filipino culture.â€
In partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry, through the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), catch Manila FAME on April 21-24 from 9am to 6pm at the World Trade Center.
