20 February 2017 WASHINGTON, D.C. – “Filipino artists are part of the 10% of the Philippine population that resides overseas. This National Arts Month, the Department of Foreign Affairs and this Embassy take our hats off to all Filipino artists in the Philippines and around the world. We acknowledge how your creativity and works have created bridges between cultures and celebrate your unique and profound contribution in shaping what it means to be a global Filipino,” said Minister Patrick A. Chuasoto, Charge d’Affaires ad interim of the Philippine Embassy at the closing reception of the week-long exhibit “Art and Soul (The Healing Power of Art)” held at the Romulo Hall in the evening of February 16.

Minister Chuasoto also highlighted the booming Philippine art market as seen in the growing number of art collectors, the sprouting of galleries across Metro Manila, and the recurring sold out art exhibitions of young Filipino artists.

The audience previewed a presentation featuring the 10 Filipino painters whose works have rocked the auction block according to magazine Art + Culture – an indication that Philippine art is now being recognized globally for its marketability both locally and internationally.

The exhibit featured the artworks of artist and curator Julian Oteyza and restaurateur and cookbook writer Mrs. Sony Robles Florendo.

Mrs. Florendo shared with the audience how her passion for painting and the arts gave her self-confidence and helped her heal and recover from illness.

“The most important thing is to enjoy what you do,” said Mrs. Florendo. “Take care of yourself. Love yourself. Appreciate what you can do and share it. You will be surprised how easily you can influence people if you enjoy and you believe in what you’ve been doing,” Mrs. Florendo further added.

The Art and Soul exhibit was organized as part of the Philippine celebration of National Arts Month this February. END