Baguio City, August 14 – The Pasa-Kalye Group of Artists, in partnership with SM, successfully concluded the SMart Market, a two-week art exhibit that was more than just a display of creativity—it was a celebration of the thriving local art community.
The exhibit began with 396 artworks from 99 artists, but as the event gained momentum, more artworks were added, enriching the experience for both the artists and the visitors. In the end, this event brought together 127 talented artists, who collectively showcased 641 artworks, with 187 pieces sold by 64 artists. Pricing from P1,500 for small works to P45,000 for the bigger masterpieces, the exhibit’s remarkable total gross sales of Php 767,700 highlighted the strong support for the arts, even in challenging times.
This is by far one of the most ambitious events of the Pasa-Kalye Group of Artists in terms of sales and exhibited artworks, surpassing their previous milestone set during the “Kulay nang Siglo” Art Exhibit, where a hundred artworks were exhibited during the Baguio Creative City Art Festival in 2018. The growth in scale and success of the SMart Market highlights the group’s evolution and their increasing impact on the local art scene.
The event was met with enthusiasm and excitement as visitors immersed themselves in the creative energy of the Pasa-Kalye Group of Artists. It not only provided a platform for artists to showcase their work but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the arts within the community, as new art collectors emerged. Attendees had the unique opportunity to meet the artists, discuss their inspirations, and purchase original pieces, making the event a truly interactive experience.
The SMart Market was not just about numbers; it was filled with memorable moments that captured the spirit of the event. One such moment was when an artist became emotional after meeting a buyer who had purchased her work. This heartfelt encounter was a testament to the deep connection between artists and their audience, a connection that was palpable throughout the event. Many artists expressed their gratitude for the timely sales, which came at a moment of need, offering them not just financial relief but also validation of their artistic endeavors.
In another instance, an expatriate who missed out on purchasing a desired artwork was eventually connected with the artist for a commissioned piece, highlighting the personalized nature of the event. These interactions are what made SMart Market more than just an exhibit—it was a space for artists and art lovers to connect, share stories, and build lasting relationships.
One of the most inspiring stories to emerge from the event was that of Claire Taguinay, a first-time exhibitor who became the event’s sold-out artist. In her own words:
“Actually, I am shy to show my artwork to the public because I feel that I am not good enough. I have self-doubts. I questioned myself if I needed to be so talented and follow the art style of other Masters to be considered good. I did not see myself as an artist, and I felt I was not good enough. When Pasa-Kalye Group of Artists called for the Exhibit, I was invited to join. I was skeptical at first, but I joined. I just wanted to show the world my art. This is the first time that I joined an exhibit. I made 28 artworks, and they were all sold out.”
Claire now plans to use her earnings to pursue a Fine Arts degree at the University of the Philippines, a decision that marks the beginning of a new chapter in her artistic journey.
This SMart Market marks the beginning of a series of similar events that will be held in various SM malls across the Philippines. The collaboration between Pasa-Kalye and SM has proven to be a significant platform for artists to reach new audiences, contributing to the vibrant art and culture landscape of the country.
As the first of many, this SMart Market has set the tone for future events, promising even more opportunities for artists and art enthusiasts alike. The success of this event is a reminder of the power of art to bring people together, inspire change, and create a lasting impact on the community. -CCT
