MANILA, Phillippines– The Filipino Portrait Artists Guild (FilPAG), in partnership with the University of the Philippines Alumni Association, launched Handog Lingkod— their very first virtual art exhibition last May 15, 2020. The fundraiser is FilPAG’s tribute to our fellow Filipinos for their efforts in their fight against the coronavirus.
Curated by award-winning artist Grandier Bella, Handog Lingkod showcases 24 free-hand portraits representing the common folk from all walks of life who are out there in the name of service and act of kindness to our countrymen. It depicts scenes and situations during this quarantine, displaying selfless acts of heroism in extraordinary times.
In a statement by FilPAG, creating a work of art as a form of gratitude is an affirmation of the sacrifices our fellow compatriots have done. This exhibit is their way of saying “Thank You” to the regular folk who continue to do their jobs, for people who go out of their way to help, for those who have become martyrs in the name of service and kindness to humanity. Exposed and vulnerable to the threat of the corona virus, these people sacrifice their lives in the name of duty, so that the rest of us will be safe. Indeed, they are our unsung heroes in these extraordinary times.
Founded in 2010, the Filipino Portrait Artists Guild, Inc. is a professional non-profit organization composed of virtual artists in the practice and promotion of the art of portraiture and figurative works.
UP Alumni Association President Reynaldo Lacerna calls on the public to show support and appreciation for the frontliners by patronizing the works of the visual artists.
They will, I believe, aside from becoming prized possessions, serve as vivid reminders of how we have stayed positive through negative times.
Reynaldo c. lacerna, up alumni association president
Ninety percent of the gross profit of the fundraising project will be donated to the frontliners affected by the COVID-19 crisis. Exhibit runs til May 31.
To view the complete gallery, visit their website.
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