PH Consulate General Lauds Filipino-American Artist for One-Man Exhibit in Chicago

Mr. Cesar Conde (left), Dr. Sally Meltzer (center) and Consul Ryan Gener discussing Conde’s art works in front of attendees at the April 8 reception in honor of Conde’s solo exhibit entitled “The Beauty of Humanity” at the Union League Club of Chicago. (Chicago PCG photo)

CHICAGO 02 May 2019 – The Philippine Consulate General in Chicago graced the one-man exhibit of acclaimed Chicago-based Filipino-American artist Cesar Conde in a reception held in his honor at the historic Union League Club of Chicago on 8 April 2019.

The exhibit, entitled “The Beauty of Humanity,” was inaugurated on 7 March 2019, but was extended for another week due to popular demand. It showcased portraits with social relevance and wit that have been Mr. Conde’s trademarks.

Consul Ryan Gener delivered Consul General to Chicago Gina A. Jamoralin’s message, where the Consulate General congratulates Mr. Conde on the success of his exhibit, noting that he has captured the beauty of humanity through his portraits, provoking thoughtful dialogue for meaningful social action.

The Consulate General also lauded him for his considerate perspectives on social and cultural issues, which have been shaped by his experiences as a Filipino-American assimilating in Seattle and Chicago, and expressed pride in celebrating the Filipino-American artist’s work, thanking him for dedicating his art to social consciousness

Mr. Conde is originally from Manila, and emigrated to the United States when he was nine years old. He spent his early school days in Seattle, Washington, where he said he encountered the tribulations of segregated busing and challenges of being an outsider. Mr. Conde remains committed in his belief that through art, society can achieve political and social justice.

The Filipino-American artist is well traveled, having been trained in Florence and Paris, and has been immersed in different societies. He has exhibited his art throughout the world, but Chicago has been his home for the past 28 years.

This respect and understanding for different races and cultures is well reflected in his works of art. The Filipino creativity and playfulness was also on display in the exhibit, particularly in his work “Pig Headed”, a self-portrait that was a play on the Filipino lechon or roast pig. END

Consul Gener (right) delivers the Consul General’s remarks as Mr. Conde looks on. (Chicago PCG photo)

For more information, visit www.chicagopcg.dfa.gov.ph, www.chicagopcg.com or https://www.facebook.com/PHinChicago/.