Written by Katrina Tan
Photos by Phyl Pangilinan
Civil rights activist Marcus Garvey said, “A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture, is like a tree without roots.” Thankfully, that’s what museums are for, right?
The Philippine National Museum is 116 years old. The building itself is historic—having been built in 1918, it was converted from the Old Legislative Building to the National Museum of Fine Arts (Manila).
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In order to continuously improve facilities and add new attractions, the Museum Foundation of the Philippines Inc. (MFPI) created the MaArte Fair, now on its 9th year, with the aim of raising funds to renovate the Museum of National History.
This year, the fair will be a three-day trunk show from August 11-13, 2017 to be held at The Gallery in The Peninsula Manila. The participants will be small to medium business owners, as well as social enterprises whose products showcase true Filipino craftsmanship, falling under categories ranging from decor, to fashion, and everything in between.
Here are some exhibitors that caught our eye:
5. Gifts and Graces Fair Trade Foundation
Gifts and Graces Fair Trade Foundation makes everything you need for your next day out on the town! Wow friends and strangers with unique, woven clutch purses, beach bags, earrings, and necklaces.
Aside from the unique look, each piece has its own story—the bag pictured above, for example, was crafted by the T’boli tribe that reside in South Cotabato. The pendant was made with the use of up-cycled metals used by the indigenous group, while the bag itself was woven by the incredible women of the tribe.
4. N Lagdameo
These beautiful bangles are just a taste of what designer Natalya Lagdameo has in store for us at her exhibit. Aside from astonishing bracelets, NLagdameo also creates and sells necklaces, rings, earrings, and restored heirloom pieces—some of which may date back up to 200 years ago.
3. Mich Araullo
In need of a new #ootd? Mich Araullo’s fantastic, easy-to-wear pieces are great for casual days in the city to special date nights. Spice up your wardrobe with her pom poms, tassels, and colorful prints.
2. Tali Handmade
In need of a new clutch for that upcoming wedding? Or maybe you want to stand out at this year’s prom? Look no further—Tali Handmade has a wide array of bags for all occasions.
Aside from providing colorful, unique sling bags and clutches, this company also works with women of all backgrounds. (Unemployed, persons with disabilities, or city jail inmates.) This just goes to show what passion and skill can accomplish, when presented with the right opportunity.
1. Oscar Mejia Artisan Fragrances
Sick of the same old lemon, apple, and pine tree scents? Spice up your life with Oscar Mejia’s all natural, locally made collection of essential oils. Each fragrance is crafted with care, blended perfectly, and bottled. Ready for use! Aside from his already available collection of Eau de Toilette, Eau de Cologne, and Room Scenting, Mejia has crafted a line of scents especially for the MaArte Fair.
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Catch the rest of the exhibitors and entrepreneurs at MaArte at the Pen from August 11-13, 2017, 10 AM to 8 PM at The Gallery, 3rd floor of The Peninsula Manila.
MaArte Fair
Facebook: Maarte Fair
Instagram: @maartefair
Twitter: @maartefair
The Peninsula Manila
Corner of Ayala and Makati Avenues, 1226 Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines.
Telephone: +63(2)8872888 Fascimile: +63(2)8154825
Email: pmn@peninsula.com Website: peninsula.com
