(SPOT.ph) The Basílica Menor de San Sebastián, an architectural wonder in Quiapo, has been wowing locals and tourists around the world since it was completed in 1891. It is an all-steel church—the first of its kind in Asia—that took a decade to complete under the supervision of Spanish architect Don Genero Palacios y Guerra. The passage of time and numerous typhoons led to the structure's rusting and corrosion, which is why San Sebastian Basilica Conservation and Development Foundation started its 10-year restoration program in 2012. Part of this are various fundraising activities to save the church, including the Para Sa Ina: Rust-to-Art Exhibit, which opened on January 28. The fully digital fundraiser runs until April.
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What makes Para sa Ina a must-see show is that it features 35 original artworks that make use of the rust collected from the crumbling basilica. Paintings, sculptures, and mixed media, all incorporate the material actually causing the heritage structure's decline>
“The rust takes on new meaning…becomes a new beginning, a renewal of faith, a birthing of new ideas, and best of all, a conduit of our love to the Blessed Mother. It becomes light in a moment of darkness and despair,” explained Mary Ann Venturina-Bulanadi, an assistant professor from the University of Santo Tomas.
This is the second rust-to-art exhibit at San Sebastian Basilica, following the success of Belleza Del Carmen in May 2018.
Para Sa Ina: Rust-to-Art Exhibit runs until April 2022 through sansebastianconservation.org.