Attending Arte Fino for the first time was nothing short of magical, especially for someone who appreciates great design and innovation. As a person deeply passionate about arts and culture, I had always heard whispers about this much-celebrated event, but experiencing it firsthand was something else entirely.
I was fortunate to be part of the Baguio Creatives who joined the opening of Arte Fino to benchmarking on this prestigious event. Walking into Arte Fino felt like stepping into a world where every corner was filled with creativity and stories waiting to be discovered.
From the moment we arrived, I was struck by the sheer diversity of the offerings. Arte Fino isn’t just a market – it’s a vivid showcase of Filipino craftsmanship at its finest. Everywhere I looked, there were stalls brimming with meticulously crafted goods, each more stunning than the last. Handwoven textiles in vibrant hues, jewelry pieces that seemed to whisper tales of their makers, and contemporary home decor blending tradition with modernity – all these surrounded me, each item telling its own story.
What I found most compelling was the dedication of the artisans. I had the chance to chat with several of them, and their passion was palpable. They spoke about their craft not just as a livelihood but as a calling – a way to keep their cultural heritage alive.
Arte Fino is much more than a place to shop. It’s an immersive cultural experience that engages all the senses. One of the most rewarding aspects of Arte Fino was the opportunity to connect with the people behind the creations. The artisans were eager to share not just their products but also their stories. I was moved by accounts of how many of them had learned their crafts from their parents and grandparents, preserving skills that have been part of their communities for decades. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of tradition and the resilience of the human spirit.
One weaver – actually, a crocheter – shared with me the painstaking process of creating her craft using durable straw material, a skill passed down by her grandmother to ensure her creations will last many years. Yvette’s collection of bags and beads also employs other artisans who create basketry that she incorporates into her bag designs.
I was particularly struck by the number of social enterprises represented at the event. Many of the brands and artisans I spoke with were committed to using their crafts as a means of social change, working closely with local communities to create sustainable livelihoods and promote cultural heritage. Their dedication to ethical craftsmanship was evident in every piece on display. For example, Project Nova not only creates durable products but is also committed to reusing discarded materials from scrapped kayaks and tents – materials designed to withstand extreme conditions. Recycling these materials results in long-lasting products and reduces environmental waste.
And then there’s Woven, an enterprise that revived the “banig” (mat) weavers and refashioned their skills to create fashionable accessories like bags, wallets, tablet cases, and many more. Their aim is to elevate the skills of local craftsmen, create innovative products, increase livelihood opportunities, and keep the local industry alive.
I also met Christian Cera, a leathercrafter like myself who makes unique and complex designs, including intricately woven leather pieces. I hope to exhibit alongside him someday.
Imagine if our everyday household items were enhanced with paintings by local artists. That’s exactly what “Looking for Juan” is doing, incorporating artwork into household items like lamps and jigsaw puzzles. These artworks are approved by the artists to support the cause of this social enterprise, which publishes books for schoolchildren and donates them to schools.
There were so many more stories to be told, but time was limited, and I could only speak to a few people. As I reflect on my experience at Arte Fino, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and inspiration. The event is a powerful testament to the richness of Filipino culture and the incredible talent of our artisans. It’s a place where tradition and innovation coexist beautifully, where every product is a labor of love, and where the stories of our heritage are woven into every fiber, bead, and brushstroke.
I left Arte Fino with a renewed appreciation for the artistry that exists in every corner of our country and a deeper understanding of the importance of supporting and preserving these traditions. Arte Fino is not just an event – it’s a movement, a celebration of who we are, and a call to honor and uplift our cultural heritage.
Will the Baguio crafters be able to compete with the creativity of the Arte Fino artisans? I believe we have top-notch designs that could be exhibited at Arte Fino. However, many small and medium-level crafters struggle to meet the production volume required to cover the registration fees. Exhibitors must have enough products to last the whole four days. Nevertheless, any artisan willing to venture and fund their production to join Arte Fino will find it worthwhile.
I saw the receipts of buyers who attended the first day, and most of them had purchases in the five-digit range. These are high-end customers who know that Arte Fino products are high-quality and well-curated, and they are willing to spend significantly to own some of these innovative creations.
If you ever have the chance to attend Arte Fino, I urge you to go. Immerse yourself in the designs, innovations, and stories that fill the air. Meet the artisans, hear their stories, and take home a piece of their craft. It’s an experience you will not easily forget. – Carl Cariño Taawan
