Phi meets Argentina in an art show at Talyer 15

Art knows no borders. Imagination becomes limitless as art connects people. In this connection, an understanding is forged until art becomes a universal expression of different cultures.

- BUM D. TENORIO, JR.

The ongoing joint exhibit of Argentinian artist Luca Martini and Filipino artist Jeanroll Calidguid Ejar at Talyer 15, a contemporary art space inside the Henry hotel compound in Pasay City, is proof of the universal appeal of art for cultural understanding. Their exhibit will run until May 31. Some of Luca's artworks will be exhibited at Manila House in BGC in June.

Both artists are grantees of the Siargao Artiste in Residence, an artist exchange program that grants the opportunity for foreign and local artists to immerse themselves in Siargao island for a period of two months. During that period, they can create art pieces with the island as source of their inspiration.

The Siargao Artiste in Residence, founded by couple Martin and Alelee Andanar in 2023, has a 108-sq.-m. gallery in Santa Monica, Siargao.

"Our mission-vision is to connect Filipino artists to different art centers, residencies, art cooperatives and foundations in Europe and Latin America. And in return, the art centers abroad will send international artists to Siargao and in effect will create a dialog between cultures and best practices," says Ian Giron, managing director of Siargao Artiste in Residence and curator of the exhibit of Luca and Jeanroll.

Luca and Jeanroll used their fascination for wood as base of their creativity.

"I'm almost married to wood. But I am unfaithful," Luca told The STAR, laughing. "I am unfaithful to wood—even if I really love it as my base for my artistry—because I also work with glass, tiles, concrete."