Craft Meets Community at This New Art Supplies Store in BGC

(SPOT.ph) While online shopping has made art materials more accessible in the recent years, nothing beats inspecting colors and textures in person so you really know the tool works for you. Art supplies store Art Caravan opened its doors to the public at The Forum in BGC on March 10—an endeavor pushed by the community of its artist buyers online who sought refuge in art during pandemic lockdowns.

Also read: Artist Yeo Kaa's Brutally Vibrant Works Hide an Unexpected Optimism

Inside Art Caravan 

Like most stores, Art Caravan had to create bot a utilitarian and aesthetically stimulating space that would house and exhibit materials in an inviting fashion to help artists find what the needed. What sets Art Caravan apart from other similar shops is the commitment to the whole experience.

"We wanted to build a cozy space that would make everyone feel at home. When you walk into Art Caravan, it’s like someone’s giving you a hug. It’s warm, engaging, and friendly. It was also important for us that our visitors are welcomed into a feel good kind of space that makes them smile when they walk in," said interior designer Cecil Ravelas, to whom Art Caravan owner Francis Lim entrusted the process.

Premium art supplies sit on custom alcoves lining every wall of the space. Nestled in the island display tables at the center are a wide variety of paintbrushes and other instruments. Each table features unique sculptural work, reminiscent of waves that ring in flow and movement.

Empty white paint tubes hang overhead, echoing the same wave pattern from the display tables, to encourage artists and visitors to waltz up to the workshop area towards the back.

Also read:
Make Your Own Scented Candles at This Workshop Series in CebuEverything You Need to Know About Art in the Park 2023

What brands are available at Art Caravan?

Artists will be happy to know that the store carries wares from brands like Golden Artist Acrylics, Amsterdam, Gamblin, Rembrandt, Williamsburg, Qor, Daniel Smith, Van Gogh, M Graham, Borciani E Bonassi, Liquitex, Grumbacher, Canson, Fabriano, Frederix, Kelly Art, Hahnemuhle, and Clairefontaine. Curation of products for the store follow one guiding principle: archival quality.

Art Caravan initially serviced artists both tenured and novice during the pandemic, when millions of Filipinos were cooped up at home and in search of solace during trying times. Art proved a gentle companion, and a budding artist community online nudged Lim to take up space in the physical world.

Now, the store also plays host to workshops, exhibits, and curious souls hoping to start their own artistic journey. Just recently, the Philippine Pastel Association held private workshops on mandala art and Chinese painting.

"There is space for everyone to meet up, connect, create art, share ideas. It’s a safe space and everyone is welcome to linger for free," said Lim.

"We don’t charge for use of our space. Guests can even bring their own materials and are not required to buy from the store," Lim added.

Art Caravan is located at 2/F, The Forum, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. They are open daily from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Monday to Sunday).

For more information, check out Art Caravan's Instagram page.