It is very rare for a popular politician to also have an even more popular artistic talent, one that has earned him the respect of the metro’s art denizens. I feel privileged to be acquainted with the hard-working and boyish-looking Manila Vice Mayor Yul Siervo Nieto, who has held several exhibits of his unique works of art at the Art Gallery of the Manila Hotel.
Now on his sixth exhibit and in time for the Chinese New Year, Vice Mayor Nieto’s Directions 6 celebrates Chinese-Filipino heritage through his masterpieces, which feature fiery and striking colors. What is commendable about his art pieces is his focus on the geographical scope of his political territory.
All five works of art on display, including the two unique ovoid thingamabobs, use striking colors that easily captivate the viewer.
When asked about the very attractive hues of his masterpieces, he said: “During February, the streets of Binondo are painted with fiery hues of red, gold, black, and white. Chinese-Filipino families flock to local temples and streets to observe their most important and longest Chinese Lunar New Year. Attractive dragon dances, fireworks, and a colorful array of traditional delicacies never fail to astonish. But it is the splendor and allure of the colorfully bedecked Chinese temples that captivate my imagination.”
For this sixth installment of his series of art exhibits, Vice Mayor Nieto’s colorful masterpieces incorporate a metal framework that further enhances the visual appeal of each piece. Temple Splendor features tiny domes representing some Chinese temples throughout the city.
In another piece, crisscrossed welded stainless steel strips mark the perimeters of key districts in Manila, such as San Nicolas and Binondo, traditionally home to flourishing Chinese-Filipino communities.
The two free-standing ovoid sculptures, forged from welded strips of bronze and gold-plated alloys, explore related themes of heritage and healing. One, entitled Nest of Healing, represents the revitalization of Manila’s major healthcare facilities across the city’s six districts.
The other, entitled Icons of Heritage, locates cultural sites in the city, such as parks, public buildings, and universities. The gleaming gold-plated sheets evoke the historical significance of the Pasig River, an artery for the country’s trade and commerce.
Having Chinese blood in him, the Vice Mayor takes pride in his lineage as he focuses on temples as the vital locus of culture for the Chinese-Filipino community. He is proud to display the temples’ profound cultural influence on his and the community’s personal development.
Directions 6 is a testament to Vice Mayor Nieto’s unwavering commitment to thematic exploration, material innovation, and his evolving artistic style. This particular exhibit marks a significant milestone in the Vice Mayor’s artistic career, blending stylistic creativity with his deep cultural connection.
All the works of art in his five previous exhibits have been sold out. What I find truly laudable is his generosity—all sales proceeds from his exhibits always go toward the medical and daily needs of his constituents. He confided that being able to help the needy in his political territory is the best reward for his artistic endeavors. That’s the kind of political figure we all want to have.
Directions 6 runs at the Art Gallery of the Manila Hotel until the end of the month. More information on this and other events at the hotel may be obtained through +632 8527 0011 or info@themanilahotel.com.
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