Inspired by the vibrant hues and rhythmic movements of underwater energy, artist Lara Latosa offers a heartfelt tribute to the ocean in “Bayside,” her third one-woman show and first ever collaboration with the iconic hotel by the bay.
Conrad Manila, in collaboration with Art Lounge Manila, unveils “Bayside”, the 35th installment of its “Of Art and Wine” series, showcasing an evocative collection by artist Lara Latosa. Inspired by the vibrant hues and rhythmic movements of underwater energy, Latosa, a self-thought artist who found refuge in her art during a dark time in her life, offers a heartfelt tribute to the ocean, coinciding with World Ocean Month this June.
“Given Conrad Manila’s iconic location along Manila Bay, hosting ‘Bayside’ is quite emblematic,” said Fabio Berto, general manager of Conrad Manila. “This remarkable collection resonates deeply with our guests, mirroring our shared commitment to promote awareness and responsibility for marine ecosystems.”
A seasoned free diver and environmental advocate, Latosa’s artistic journey has been shaped by her profound connection to the sea. Through fluid strokes, vibrant hues and dynamic compositions, she conveys the energy of ocean waves, the interplay of light underwater and the fragile balance of marine life. Her acrylic paintings not only portray the dynamic energy of waves and underwater illumination, but also explore themes of resilience, mental wellness and the transient beauty of life.
Certain pieces, in fact, have that unique quality to virtually jump out and even undulate if you stare at them closely from certain angles. This vivid, life-like quality is more pronounced in photos, making Latosa’s works Instagramable.
“My art is a love letter to the ocean,” Latosa, a Business graduate from De La Salle University, said. “It has been both an escape from life’s struggles and a way to express the deep bond I feel with the sea. The waves symbolize my passion for water, my journey with mental wellness and my belief in life’s ephemeral beauty.”
Latosa, who’s now in her early 30s, but looks a decade younger, shared that she once had a bout with clinical depression while working as a financial analyst, prompting her to see a doctor. Instead of being permanently dependent on meds, she found clarity and healing by focusing her energies on her art instead, an untapped and undeveloped talent of hers ever since she was young, experimenting with colors and themes while painting her heart out for hours on end.
She has tackled all sorts of subjects, including still life and portraiture, but it was only when she was able to connect her innate talent in the arts with her love and respect for marine life that Latosa found her niche in the artworld.
The exhibit officially opened recently and was graced by Cathy Nepomuceno, vice president of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation; Susanne Tiausas, managing director -Art Lounge Manila; Camille Genuino, board treasurer – Angat Buhay; and Dr. Deo Florence Onda, associate professor and associate dean for research, innovation, development and enterprise, Marine Science Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman.
The ongoing show invites visitors to a reflective, multisensory experience until July 12 at Gallery C, located on the 3rd level of Conrad Manila. Latosa’s paintings, crafted in acrylic on canvas and showcasing ocean waves in abstract form, are available for purchase.
Complementing the exhibit, Conrad Manila is offering a special “Bayside”-inspired afternoon tea at C Lounge until July 12.
Curated by the hotel’s acclaimed chefs, the set for two offers a delightful journey of taste and refinement. Priced at P 3,288, the menu features a refined selection of ocean-inspired treats, such as blue lagoon macaron, passion fruit wave tart, coconut panna cotta with mango pearl drops, ocean ripple cheesecake and sea salt caramel éclair.
Delicate savories include sea breeze cucumber sandwich, crab and avocado brioche, smoked salmon mousse tartlet, shrimp avocado tartine and nori-wrapped chicken roll.
This exquisite selection is accompanied by a choice of coffee or a pot of tea, further enhancing the “Bayside”-inspired experience. The afternoon tea is available daily from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
For inquiries and more information, call +632 8833 9999 or email Conrad.Manila.info@conradhotels.com.
