With trade fairs and bazaars scheduled one after the other in Makati these past few weeks, it has become important for organizers to distinguish themselves, whether through the sale of numbered prints by a famous artist, or by choosing a more luxurious venue.
The annual MaArte fair, spearheaded by the Museum Foundation of the Philippines, Inc. (MFPI), has partnered this year with The Peninsula Manila. Instead of a bazaar setup, with sellers limited to one or two tables to display their wares, the hotel’s Gallery on the third floor will be arranged to look like one long living room on Aug. 11-13.
Pieces from the 31 participants will be casually arranged in a “tropical eclectic” style to give buyers ideas on how they can incorporate them into their homes. Tabletop accessories will share space with handcrafted bags and home fragrances, while embroidered linens will be neatly stacked or artfully draped.
“Think of it like being welcomed into the homes of 31 highly celebrated Filipino craftsmen,” said event consultant Katrina Gonzales.
There are far fewer participants this year—there were 70 last year—but MFPI president Albert Avellana said, “This was not due to a lack of interested parties, but because of The Gallery’s limited space. We also wanted to display the different items in the best way possible.”
Old and new
Gonzales and co-event consultant Vicky Jalandoni vetted this year’s mix of old and new exhibitors. The new sellers include Mich Araullo, Tweetie de Leon Gonzalez for TDLG, Two Chic by TC Alvarez, Cabana Workshop, Oscar Mejia Artisan Fragrances, Stockton Row, Nicole Whisenhunt, Haute Home, Violetvine by Amarie, and Filip+Inna.
Avellana also pointed out that several sellers will be launching new collections at MaArte, including bags from Aranaz, and Mia Villanueva; woven fabrics for the home from Al Valenciano’s Balay ni Atong; and apparel from Len Cabili of Filip+Inna.
From a private sector initiative to raise funds for the National Museum, the MaArte fair has evolved into a showcase for micro-entrepreneurs and a display of Filipino craftsmanship. Through the years, the lineup has included export-quality merchandise, indigenous tribal materials and contemporary products.
A side event at the three-day affair is MaArTEA Talks, described as “a series of conversations with select business owners who will offer entrepreneurial tips and insights.” To support MFPI’s fund-raising efforts, the Peninsula will serve specialty teas by two of the featured merchants, Tsaa Laya and da.u.de. The custom brews will be featured for the entire month of August during afternoon tea service at The Lobby, with a portion of the proceeds earmarked for MFPI.
Call MFPI at 6979509 or 4042685, e-mail inquiry@museumfoundationph.org, or visit www.museumfoundationph.org.
