PAG sizzles at Art 2009

The Philippine Artists Group of Canada celebrated the 111th anniversary of the Declaration of Philippine Independence by representing the home country in the Art09 International Art Fair on June 12, 13 & 14 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on Front Street. Art09 is a first gathering of artists and artisans from Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada China, Cuba, Czechoslavakia, Egypt, Finland, France, Hungary, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Korea, the Philippines, Poland, Turkey and the U.S.A.

Lead by its new president, Omel Masalunga, and founding president, Romi MananQuil, the PAG members Rolly Abarilla, Jun Afable, Teody Asuncion, Nellie Bautista, Celia Correa, Cobie Cruz, Frank Cruzet, Jhun Diamante, Tony Doctor, Rol Lampitoc, Dong Magalona, Koni Marcoux, Toots Quiachon, Frank and Nelia Tonido again showcased the colourful world of Philippine art, this time, with nearly 300 accomplished and emerging local and international artists who unveiled their creations in this 3-day international art fair.

On display were the breathtaking landscapes, evocative figuratives, captivating photography, spirited abstractions, intricate sculptures and jewelleries from around the world in oils, watercolours, acrylics, drawings, mixed media, glass, wood, bronze and ceramics.

The festival opened to an excited international crowd on Friday evening, June 12. The Philippine booth comprised with varied samples of the colourful Philippine genre, traditions, sceneries, still life and modern abstractions by the members who came in full force with their families and friends, both collectors and admirers. The PAG booth gathered special attention when the artists led by its ebullient president, Omel, offered samples of Filipino “kakanin” to the curious and delighted passers-by. This gave the area the Philippine fiesta atmosphere as visitors from various countries enjoyed the delicious Philippine puto, kutsinta, palitaw, pitsi-pitsi and puto-bumbong, courtesy of the Toronto Philippine Consulate, the PAG’s perennial presenting sponsor. Special guests for the opening night were the new UPAA president Joe Zagala, former president Noel Cruz & his lady, Agnes, writer Rose Tijam, photo journalist Rene Sevilla and PAG patroness Fredelina Brueckner.

Pls. visit the Art09 website at http://www.art-2009.com/ and the Philippine Artists Group at http://www.philippineartists.com/.