Maria Victoria “Marivic” Rufino recently wowed guests at the Conrad Manila as she debuted her latest artworks with “Scintilla: Dreamscapes” for the 25th edition of the hotel’s “Of Art and Wine (OAAW)” exhibit at Gallery C.
“Scintilla,” which literally means “spark,” also embodies the creative energy after a long hiatus. For Marivic, this translated to 23 paintings and five delicately crafted functional art pieces, such as lamps and dividers. Her 19th solo exhibition also represents the artist’s dreams and memories, brought to life through watercolor and mixed media.
“This is a renaissance of sort after a long pause. It was a struggle too, but I survived,” Marivic said in her speech during opening night. “This exhibition is a combination of new works, paintings that I have started many years ago and finally finished this year, a few [of these pieces] have traveled to San Francisco, Madrid and Paris.”
“My life-long journey in art has been challenging due to multiple responsibilities, but it has been very fulfilling. The exhibitions and productions I have done over the years were for the benefit of foundations and missionaries helping abused children and women. Child protection and environmental care are my personal advocacies and I am delighted to further strengthen that with this exhibit at Conrad Manila,” Rufino, who is also an artist, writer, concert producer, added.
Conrad Manila’s general manager Fabio Berto also shared that the new art exhibit, which highlights nature, resonates with the hotel’s commitment to sustainability. “It also reminds guests of our promise and commitment to filling the world with the light and warmth of hospitality, while taking utmost consideration of the environment through sustainable practices,” he said.
Also present to lead the opening of “Of Art and Wine: Scintilla: Dreamscapes” are SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) president Elizabeth Sy, SMHCC executive vice-president Peggy Angeles and renowned artist and art critic Cid Reyes.
“Of Art and Wine: Scintilla: Dreamscapes” will be on exhibit at Conrad Manila’s Gallery C from Aug. 15 to Oct. 21, 2023.
