Local Brands, Sustainable Fashion + More: What to Expect at ArteFino
It's happening from August 24 to 27 at Powerplant Mall.
(SPOT.ph) Art fairs have been helpful in raising awareness about homegrown brands and cottage industries in arts and crafts. Take for example, ArteFino, which has been around since 2017. Rooted in the celebration of Philippine creativity, heritage, and craft, the festival has fostered an ever-expanding community of local designers, sustainable brands, and conscious consumers. This 2023, it returns to its home at The Fifth at Rockwell and the North Court at Powerplant Mall in Makati City. The festival runs from August 24 to 27.
ArteFino's founders—Cedie Vargas, Marimel Francisco, Maritess Pineda, Mita Rufino, and Susie Quiros—have observed the evolving market landscape. They said in a press statement: "Over the years, we’ve seen the market grow. Younger consumers are now more conscious about purchasing locally-made products that create positive impact–socially, environmentally, and culturally."
What to expect at ArteFino Festival 2023:
ArteFino Festival 2023 will present over 130 Philippine brands spanning fashion, home, design, and lifestyle. Guided by the theme "Reuse Repurpose and Regenerate," this year's presentation offers a distinct Filipino perspective on sustainable fashion. Brands participating in ArteFino pay homage to the nation's rich craft history through contemporary designs, emphasizing the global wearability of traditional Filipino weaves and fabrics.
The Barracks, curated by Ram Lopez-Vito Bucoy, presents 12 emerging Filipino men's fashion brands, offering a fresh take on men’s fashion and lifestyle while highlighting Philippine craftsmanship. The ArteFino Finds booth showcases hand-picked selections, adding variety to offerings. Additionally, 12 homegrown food concepts, including The Seven Pantry and Gourmet Garage, enrich the festival experience.
The festival’s theme of reuse, recycle, and regenerate also influences the festival grounds' design and construction. The fairgrounds themselves serve as a continuation of the main display showcase, incorporating sustainability principles into all aspects of the event.
ArteFino also pays tribute to the “Grand Dame of Piña Fabric and Philippine Fashion,” Patis Tesoro, through a special presentation. Conceptualized by Gino Gonzalez, the lobby entrance transforms into a rice field where an island of bilao (circular handwoven trays) floats over, symbolizing Tesoro's pioneering contributions to contemporary times. The exhibit captures the essence of heritage, creativity, and progress through iconic pieces by Tesoro with handwoven hammocks as backdrop.
Tireless advocacy for craft and community remains at the core of the ArteFino movement. The HeArteFino Foundation, funded by festival proceeds, supports artist-entrepreneurs and communities. With beneficiaries like Bagobo Tagabawa's beaders and Kabankalan's fabric weavers, the foundation's impact is profound. Recently, HeArteFino has delved into the realm of zero-waste textiles, collaborating with Anthill and Argao weavers.
The HeArteFino Booth will showcase deadstock fabrics from Anthill and Great Women, furthering sustainable practices. The collaborative efforts of TELAStory, women artisans of Tondo, and makers from Not A Day Dream showcase innovation in design, sourcing, and manufacturing. The HeArteFino collection is an ever-evolving testament to sustainable partnerships.
Other parts of Powerplant Mall also come alive as ArteFino Festival 2023 extends beyond The Fifth. The curated home products will be showcased at the Edades Lounge (near Zara). Brands located at the North Court like Abel.ph, Amparo’s Apothecary, BalaiKamay, C&C, Caro Wilson, HoliCOW, Katha, LARA Samar, Larone Artisans, Likha-Mundo, Pinky Lizares, Pulido, Sustainably Made, The Fine Life Market, Touch of Craft, TravelFund by SiriusDan, and Uswag Artesano X Abre Linea are also participants of the fair.
There’s also Maker’s Lab, an ArteFino initiative that highlights “The Modern Filipino’s Pamana” through products that not only boast Filipino heritage but also the use of upcycled materials.
If the offerings seem overwhelming, ArteFino founders advise you to "Breathe. Take your time and stay inquisitive." The cultural experience is best enjoyed when you “marinate in the moment.”
ArteFino Festival 2023 runs from August 24 to 27 at The Fifth at Rockwell and the North Court, Powerplant Mall, Makati City. For more information, follow ArteFino on Facebook.