5 reasons to get excited about 'The Nonesuch', the new fine art fair happening on October 27-29
The Art in the Park and Art Fair Philippines are getting a sibling.
Where Art in the Park is a casual stroll outside and the Art Fair is the edgy sister hanging out in the parking lot with the cool kids, the new affair gives you an excuse to dress up then load up on historical trivia.
Trickie Lopa, Lisa Periquet, and Dindin Araneta on Wednesday introduced "The Nonesuch: Fine Collectibles and Rarities" to the press, a fair that highlights choice pieces that celebrate Filipino craftsmanship and heritage.
"Nonesuch" is used to described something that is in a class of its own — unique and unrivaled.
Expect pieces that match this description as participating exhibitors Gallery Deus, Gallery Joshua, Gallery of Prints, Leon Gallery, Maria Angelica Rare Finds, Maria Closa, Natalya Lagdameo, Nicole Whisenhunt, Osmunod, Tawalisi Antiques, and Unang Panahon showcase rare and historically valuable relics.
The Nonesuch will run from October 27 to 29 at The Manila Peninsula. Tickets are priced at P350 per day or P1,000 for a three-day pass.
Furniture, rare maps, jewelry, and other objets d'art are available for the public's perusal and there are plenty of reasons to get excited about it.
1. The Gallery at The Manila Peninsula will be transformed to look like Escolta
Exhibition designer Gino Gonzales, World Stage Design bronze medalist, is attempting to capture the charm of Old Manila by taking inspiration from Escolta.
"I was working with Mark Higgins on the book 'Fashionable Filipinas', we had several photos of Escolta because it was the fashion district. And the photos were incredible," Gonzales told GMA News Online.
"It's something that I want to capture, even just a hint of it. I know I won't be able to, but it's perfect for this."
Gonzales will create impressions of shop houses using inabel, metal, and translucent fabric. Everyone will have to wait for opening day to see how picturesque it will be, but it will likely be very Instagram-friendly.
The Nonesuch has a posh vibe and to balance it out, Gonzales said that he wants to give the fair a relaxed feeling...just like you're strolling along Escolta on its best days.
2. If you don't know much about history, they'll give you some knowledge for free
Aside from perusing the pieces, the public is also invited to attend lectures that will further endear you to our rich history and culture. It's free for anyone who bought a ticket to the fair.
Ino Manalo will give a talk on religious urnas and Floy Quintos will give a talk on the Ifugae bale. Joining them are Ambeth Ocampo, who will talk about collecting and stewardship, and Emmanuel Breguet, who will talk about the history of Breguet.
"Aside from the people already buying it (the art), we want it to be a bit more appealing for younger people. That's why there's an educational component to go with it and we avoided pricing the tickets too high," Gonzales said.
3. It's your chance to chat up Floy Quintos (and more)
The legendary Floy Quintos will be manning the booth for Gallery Deus and he's more than happy to share stories about the pieces on display.
Quintos was more than happy to share information about the pieces he selected for the preview and he has more stories to share.
No spoilers here, but he's also eager to educate about the importance of respecting the symbols on the indigenous textiles used in high fashion and is more than happy to explain the connection between patterns and math.
Gonzales revealed that other exhibits like Kit Roxas will also be at their booths to spread love and knowledge. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
4. Start your love affair with indigenous art
Maria Closa and Gallery Deus are showcasing a number of indigenous objects, which might not look as striking as the gold jewelry on display.
Gonzales shared that the pieces from the Spanish era are appealing because of their intricacy and the "glam factor", whereas indigenous art seem plain.
"Initially I just thought they were just blobs of wood. But if you look at it closely, there are so many differences and subtleties," he said.
The more Gonzales became familiar with the pieces like the Bulul, the more he appreciated its quiet dignity. It's time more people develop an appreciation for it,too.
5. You might miss the only chance to see these rare items
There are maps and prints that might not be available for viewing in public again. Keep in mind that the Nonesuch is focused on presenting one-of-a-kind collectibles.
Of course, they're hoping that the Nonesuch — like Art in the Park and the Art Fair — will become an annual gathering. Who knows what rarities we'll see then? — LA, GMA News