The Rotary Club of Makati launched Ugnay, a fundraising art exhibit that explores Filipino identity through memory, abstraction, and civic engagement.
Held at The Peninsula Manila throughout July, the show featured installations across the Upper Lobby, Escolta Corridor, Rubio Art Studio, and a one-day display at the Rigodon Ballroom Foyer.
Renowned painter Dominic Rubio headlined the exhibit with his signature depictions of elongated figures in colonial-era attire, often set in romanticized versions of Old Manila or the countryside.
A native of Paete, Laguna, Rubio studied Commercial Arts at the University of Santo Tomas and has shown work at Sotheby’s and Christie’s. Among his major commissions is the Great Promenade of Philippine-American Friendship mural at the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C.
“Dominic’s work captures the essence of Filipino culture,” said art patron Rosita Lara Lumagui, managing director of Worldwide Resource Solutions Philippines.
Also featured were contemporary artists Aaron Virata Mempin, Jean Uy Yam, and Anton Cabrera.
Mempin, who signs his work as “A,” exhibited minimalist geometric abstractions influenced by coastal landscapes. Uy Yam, a lawyer and mother of two, presented vibrant pieces combining realism and abstraction, while Cabrera showed textured works in subdued tones.
“Each artist brings a unique perspective,” Lumagui said. “Together, they create a balanced and compelling dialogue.”
Mempin credited lawyer Howie Calleja for organizing the event and praised Rubio’s collaborative approach. “Ugnay isn’t just about art—it’s about connection,” he said.
The event is the Rotary Club of Makati’s first major activity for the 2025–2026 term, with proceeds going to the club’s community service projects.
Among the guests at the July 9 opening were Lumagui, COMELEC Commissioner Ferdinand Maceda Jr., Rotary Club of Makati president Eduardo Galvez, Supreme Court Justice Midas Marquez, Rotary District 3830 governor Reginald Alberto Nolido, past district governor Maria Concepcion Camacho, and Malaysian Ambassador Abdul Malik Castelino.
Inquiries may be directed to The Peninsula Manila concierge or rcm3830@gmail.com.
