During the artists reception for "Gunita" at The Gallery Bar in Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, we were told that a "pintawit" will be part of the program.
As with most events I go to, I don't always ask what exactly such things are. I simply let it unfold, although it's fairly easy to figure out. As two singers, She and Marga, performed on stage, the participating artists of Arte Bauan began creating art using pastel on paper.
Cute, I thought.
But after what seemed like two songs, the artists had all finished and to my surprise, the on-the-spot activity of the artists produced some truly impressive works that would have taken others hours to create. And they didn't have anything to copy from.
They drew from memory.
And that was what I took away from what I thought would be just another simple exhibition opening. These artists, without saying much verbally, said a lot through their art.
Watch video highlights here:
"Gunita" artists reception at The Gallery, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria
And thus, "Gunita" was not just an exhibition title but a reminder that our memories, when we draw feelings from it, can produce something beautiful--a painting, a song, a poem, a dance performance, and so much more.
Gunita comes from the Filipino word for remembrance. It is where personal histories and collective experiences are transformed into visual or even oral narratives, preserving the enduring spirit of Filipino creativity across generations and geographies. Giving honor to these memories ensure that the personal stories, cultures, traditions, and beliefs survive and passed on to future generations.
Presented by Arte Bauan in partnership with Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, and Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria, this exhibition reflects the belief that art empowers, and it is not only meant to be seen, but also to be experienced. The distinguished Filipino artists include Ada Panopio, Jerwind Magnaye, Windsor Magnaye, Ruby Bagsit, Doy Kastilyo, Temyong, and Yelcast.
The exhibition extends beyond local borders through the Viaje Program of KUNST Filipino, where the artists brought Filipino narratives to audiences in Italy, Germany, The Netherlands, Belgium, and France. Yelcast represented the Philippines at the Florence Biennale and further engaged audiences in Morocco and South Africa, while Windsor Magnaye earned distinction in a juried exhibition in Paris. Their collective exploration of Filipinism: What Makes Art Filipino – Making Visible Things Visible demonstrates how identity shaped by memory, heritage, and lived experience resonates across cultures and continents.
The exhibition opened in time for the celebration of Philippine Independence Day. is ongoing until August 31, 2026, and will be open for public viewing and sale. By Dexter R. Matilla
About Crowne Plaza
Seize the day and enjoy your stay at one of Manila's premier business hotels. Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria is at the center of Ortigas, a bustling business and commercial district that includes multinational firms, government agencies and major financial institutions. With 262 room count, our top notch amenities, and seamless connection to one of Ortigas' biggest shopping malls, Robinsons Galleria; Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria is the ideal work play destination for connected travelers.
About Holiday Inn
Uniquely designed to provide the brighter side of travel, Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria is a top choice to spend time with the entire family, couples on vacation, solo explorers, and individuals and groups traveling for business meetings and conferences. Stay in any of our 285 well-appointed and refreshed guest rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi and other amenities to ensure a memorable experience with friends, family, and colleagues. Have fun by the pool, sit back and relax at the spa, work out in our 24/7 fitness center, spend quality time with your kids and relish a delicious breakfast at the restaurant. Best of all, Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria is where Kids Stay and Eat Free and a pet friendly hotel.
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