Filipino artist Abe Orobia showcased emerging artistic talents in two recent exhibitions that highlighted the work of his mentees and explored the intersection of humanity, nature, and personal growth.
Orobia, known for his scenic, material-based paintings, staged the shows as a platform to introduce promising visual artists from Artelier, a student organization at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde that promotes traditional media and appreciation of the arts.
The first exhibit, Symbiosis, opened at J Studio in Makati City and examined the interconnectedness of humans and nature. “It focused on symbiotic relationships in nature—among animals, plants, and humans—and called for environmental awareness and activism,” Orobia said.
The show featured works by Alex Pandaraoan, Annjew, Cydney Shanelle, Daphne Co, Jessa Desoloc, Kirsten Dava, Mikhayla Harlea, and Roren Sy, who used metaphorical, symbolic, and allegorical themes while emphasizing materiality and sustainability in their mediums.
The second exhibit, Oubaitori, held at Nami Gallery in Quezon City, drew inspiration from Japanese philosophy on personal growth. The show highlighted individuality, encouraging artists to reflect on how “each flower has a different time to bloom.”
Featured artists included Co, Dava, Mary Joy Go, Cheryl Owen-Sobrepeña, Cydney Shanelle, Isaac Buenaflor, Roren Sy, and Rachel Holaysan, along with works by Orobia’s fellow mentors Judeo Herrera, Wellers, Bastee Orobia, and Bernard Cabugnason.
As an educator and mentor, Orobia emphasized the importance of patience, discipline, and hard work. “An art career is a slow grind and a marathon of sorts; therefore, one must be consistent and dedicated,” he said. He described his role as a guide, helping young artists nurture their passion and grow creatively.
The exhibitions also encouraged students to address contemporary issues such as environmental protection and mental health through their work.
“These exhibitions aim not only to involve them in professional practice but also for their narratives to be heard with the possibility of inspiring fellow creatives and the general public,” Orobia said.
Orobia currently teaches under the Fine Arts Culture-Based Arts Program at Benilde. He previously lectured at the University of Santo Tomas and has conducted workshops at the Ayala Museum and for indigenous youth across the Philippines.
His notable solo exhibitions include Images of Our Nation (2021) at the National Commission for Culture and the Arts Gallery, Unconquerable (Turn! Turn! Turn!) (2023) at Pinto Art Museum, and Spirit of the Wild (2025) at World Art Dubai.
Awards include the Araw ng Makati Award (1991), Parangal ng Bayan at Malacañang Palace (1995), Bisig ng Kabataan Outstanding Filipino Achievers for Arts and Culture Award (1999), and recognition as a TOYM Honoree for Education, Arts, and Culture in 2021.
