HONG KONG – A vibrant celebration of Filipino creativity is captivating audiences in Hong Kong, where the community of Filipinos in the city is finding inspiration in the works of their compatriots. An art exhibition titled “Unity in Diversity: Filipino Artists Across Borders” opened this week, featuring more than 70 masterpieces crafted by Filipino artists from Hong Kong, the Philippines, New York, and the United Kingdom. This is probably the single biggest overseas exhibition of contemporary Filipino artists ever.
The exhibition, held at the Hong Kong Visual Arts Center from February 26 to March 3, showcases an array of artistic expressions, including intricate sculptures, vivid paintings, woven textiles, and other stunning creations. Consul General of the Philippines in Hong Kong, Germinia Aguilar-Usudan, hailed the event as a testament to the ingenuity and spirit of Filipino artists, whose works are resonating not only with the Filipino diaspora but also with a broader international audience.
Among the exhibition’s standout participants is Ferdinand Cacnio, the guest of honor, whose presence elevates the opening festivities. Renowned for his mastery in sculpting, Cacnio unveils a stunning collection of brass sculptures that meld fluidity with precision. For the first time in Hong Kong, he also presents his paintings, offering a rare glimpse into the versatility of this celebrated artist. His works serve as a bridge between tradition and innovation, setting the tone for an exhibition that promises to push artistic boundaries.
Joining Cacnio is Norman Dreo, a painter par excellence whose meticulous attention to detail pays homage to the Old Masters. Dreo’s two paintings are a labor of love, each stroke echoing the timeless techniques of classical artistry while infusing them with a contemporary Filipino spirit. His works invite viewers to linger, uncovering layers of meaning in their intricate compositions.
The exhibition also celebrates the evocative power of abstract expression through Lydia Velasco’s striking Filipino female figures. Velasco’s bold forms capture the essence of womanhood, blending strength and grace in a dance of shapes and shadows. Equally compelling is Richard Dela Cruz’s storytelling, where Rococo-inspired engravings come alive with narrative depth, drawing viewers into a world of ornate elegance and hidden tales.
Innovation takes center stage with Boholana artist Nicole Asares, whose outline-embossed paintings defy conventional boundaries. Her creations leap across the canvas, intertwining form and imagination in a mesmerizing dance that challenges the viewer’s perception. Similarly, Jeff Dahilan’s meticulous triangular mosaics offer a geometric symphony of color and texture, each piece a testament to patience and precision. Meanwhile, “rockstar” painter Kenneth John Montegrande enchants with his sublime blue-toned landscape, where serene hues evoke a meditative stillness that resonates deeply.
A significant highlight of this exhibition is the debut of Kareem Moumina, a prolific Filipino-Arab-American artist based in New York. Marking his first appearance in a Filipino art exhibition, Moumina’s huge oil painting commands attention with its fusion of tropical settings and dreamlike elements influenced by visits to the native land of his Filipino mother. His work explores the beauty of diversity—an interplay of cultures and visions that mirrors the exhibition’s overarching theme. Through his bold brushstrokes and vibrant palette, Moumina invites viewers to reflect on the interconnectedness of identity and environment, making his contribution a fitting crescendo to this artistic celebration.
This landmark exhibition not only showcases the brilliance of individual artists but also underscores the collective strength of Filipino creativity on the global stage. From Cacnio’s sculptural innovations to Moumina’s cross-cultural narratives, each contributor weaves a thread into a larger story—one of heritage, imagination, and resilience. For a full list of participating artists, click here, and prepare to be inspired by a display that transcends borders and redefines artistic possibility.
“These works are more than just art; they’re a bridge connecting Filipinos across the world and showcasing our talent to others,” Aguilar-Usudan said during the opening ceremony. Visitors from various backgrounds have expressed awe at the skill and creativity on display, with many noting the universal appeal of the pieces.
The event underscores Hong Kong’s role as a cultural hub for the Filipino community, which forms one of the city’s largest expatriate groups. For the artists, it’s an opportunity to share their heritage and stories through a kaleidoscope of mediums, proving that creativity knows no borders.
The exhibition is jointly curated by Hong Kong-based artists Rodolfo Canete Jr. and Abigail Camaya Hills of Galleria Camaya.
As the exhibition continues through the week, it promises to leave a lasting impression on all who witness the remarkable talent of Filipino artists thriving across the globe.
Media ContactCompany Name: Galleria CamayaContact Person: Gail HillsEmail: Send EmailCountry: HongKongWebsite: https://galleriacamaya.art
