By Elle Uy
A celebration of Filipino heritage awaits! ArteFino is once again inviting you to immerse yourself in the soul of our nation through the exquisite craftsmanship of its artisans.
From August 22-25, 2024, at The Fifth at Rockwell, Power Plant Mall, discover over 100 exceptional Filipino brands that tell unique stories and support the visionaries behind them. By choosing local, you’re not just making a purchase; you’re investing in our communities and preserving our heritage.
Artefino, a staple in the city’s artisanal fair circuit since 2017, returns with a fresh take on its heritage theme. This year, they’re evolving their “Pamana” (inheritance) theme with “Kapamana,” focusing on contemporary expressions rooted in our history.
“When we briefed our brand partners about Kapamana, it felt like a full circle moment for us,” said Marimel Francisco, Artefino co-founder. “We have always talked about instilling culture and heritage in the next generation. The focus remains the same, but we are turning the spotlight on contemporary expressions that are rooted in our history. It’s essentially heritage, but not in an old-fashioned way.”
Cedie Lopez-Vargas, Artefino co-founder, elaborated on this during an interview with BusinessWorld at the fair’s launch at the new SoFA (School of Fashion and the Arts) Design Institute campus in Rockwell. “We’re not just talking about craftsmanship and artisanship. We’re taking the conversation to a higher level. What are we leaving behind for the next generation? You’re not just leaving behind crafts and tradition. What kind of world are you leaving? When you think about dressing up, you think in terms of ‘what can I upcycle, what can I refresh,’ rather than ‘what can I buy that’s new?’”
One of the highlights this year is HeArteFino, the fair’s CSR arm, which will showcase a limited edition collection by artist Patty Eustaquio for Bayo Atelier. This collection features natural fabrics printed with Ms. Eustaquio’s artwork in biodegradable ink, combined with native-woven textiles. Emphasizing zero-waste, these avant-garde pieces offer multiple ways to wear them and come in limited numbers. This innovative approach demonstrates how traditional craftsmanship can intersect with modern sustainability.
Artefino has been instrumental in making Filipino aesthetics cool again. From its inception in the 2010s to its current influence in the 2020s, it’s no longer uncommon to see Filipiniana-inspired attire on the streets, a space once dominated by Western and East Asian styles. Ms. Lopez-Vargas shared, “We like to think we created more awareness for that movement, by trying to find ways to contemporize how you dress Filipino.”
During our conversation, she pointed to her skirt, which resembled the tapis worn with the traditional Traje de Mestiza dress. She corrected us, explaining that it was actually an apron — inspired by the tapis, yes, but with more practical pockets. “It’s not costumey, it’s not too contrived.”
ArteFino continues to be a beacon for Filipino artisans and designers, promoting a blend of tradition and modernity. This year’s fair promises to be a vibrant celebration of our rich heritage and innovative craftsmanship. Mark your calendars and join us from August 22-25 at The Fifth, Power Plant Mall in Rockwell, to experience the best of Filipino creativity and culture.
Discover, support, and celebrate Filipino artisans. Save the date and be part of this incredible journey that preserves and modernizes our heritage.
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