It’s the ninth year of the MaArte Fair of The Museum Foundation of the Philippines, Inc. (MFPI), and this year they’re making things simpler yet grander.
This time around, the fair will be returning to its grassroots and drawing back from the grand scale bazaar that it has become. This year’s fair will be hosting a select 31 merchants instead of the usual 70.
Organizers decided to trim the list to give their exhibitors a chance to fully showcase their respective products in a manner that is more selectively assembled. This year, the fair aspired to behave more like an art exhibit, an intimate affair where guests could appreciate and experience the artistry of each exhibited product in full.
Aside from the difference in the exhibitors’ line-up, another welcome change in this year’s fair is its partnership with Manila Pensinsula. The hotel serves as the official venue of MaArte, which will run from August 11 to 13. MFPI will also be holding talks featuring business owners who shall share insights and offer audiences entrepreneurial tips to audiences.
One last thing: MaArte has a theme now, and it’s “tropical” for 2017. Here’s a taste of the upcoming MaArte Fair, which should make you want to have fun in the sun:
Embroidered beauties
From wearable statement pieces to monogramed linen, MaArte Fair will be hosting a collection of beautifully embroidered products that’ll make you itch to run your fingers across the thread.
For example, Two Chic by TC Alvarez is back boasting contemporary designs with elaborate embroidery. Her pieces are casual and perfect for a weekend out with friends. Then, they also have custom-made pieces from Cabana Workshop, where you can make or order personalized gifts like a monogrammed linen napkin or floral designed linen napkins.
Cultural Textiles
In true spirit of showcasing Filipino artistry, MaArte will also feature apparel and textiles decorated in the traditional patterns of native communities. Some well-known examples are Len Cabili’s Filip + Inna clothing line and Al Valenciano’s Balay ni Atong. These are purchases that are sure to give you certain pride upon wearing.
Exclusive Tea Flavors
A tea-lover myself, I’m personally looking forward to the custom tea flavors that we were teased with during the launch.
Tsaa Laya will be offering three uniquely Filipino flavors to be exclusively served during the MaArte Fair’s Afternoon Tea service. One of which is Coco Milage, a smoky, bittersweet blend of coconut, pandan, and roasted Tam-awan rice. Da.u.de will also be serving a custom sampaguita tea blend they made for the fair, and it will be served with sampaguita macarons.
Unique Jewelry
For those looking for a bit of luxury and sparkle, there will also be a number of jewelry exhibits. Some examples would be Natalya Lagdameo’s masterfully restored pieces from NLagdameo and Micki Olaguer’s timely but classical designs.
And that’s just the tip of this ‘meticulously selected’ ice berg.
Bonus: Bags Galore
There’s a feathered bag with bright blue peacocks embroidered on it. If you don’t consider that a must-have, there might be something wrong with your soul. We kindly advise to consult with your nearest physician.
Read more:
Designer draws inspiration from indigenous tribes
Indigenous Filipino lore inspires Natalya Lagdameo
Piopio threads traditional patterns to create chic clothing
Writer: ANTHEA REYES
PHOTOGRAPHY PATRICK SEGOVIA
