The first social event of the year on my calendar was something I always enjoy because it gives me the opportunity to immerse myself in another world—a most welcome respite from my daily grind. It brings me up close to a world of fantasy, wonder, and awe. It relaxes my nerves and my whole being.
Ushering in the Year of the Horse is Conrad Manila’s highly popular Of Art and Wine Series, featuring, in its first edition this year, the mixed media masterpieces of the country’s first and only feng shui artist, Lizanne Uychaco, presented under the theme “Spectrum of Abundance.”
Lizanne’s works stand out in their authenticity and are deeply rooted in her Chinese-Filipino heritage. She is a lifelong practitioner of the arts, and her training spans sculpture, pottery, jewelry-making, silvercraft, Chinese painting and calligraphy, watercolor, oils, and acrylics. Such expertise makes her art pieces instantly recognizable and richly textured.
Her art is a distinctive fusion of East and West, a compelling paradox of antiquity and modernity. Each piece is an interpretation of ancient cultural symbols, beliefs, and energies associated with protection, good fortune, wealth, success, and prosperity.
at P1,288,888
I was also in attendance when she unveiled her very first art exhibit at Conrad Manila a few years ago. Seeing her new masterpieces this time, I noticed a recurring element in her work: Chinese coins with the square hole at the center, a traditional charm symbolizing heaven (circle) and earth (square), in line with ancient Chinese cosmology. These coins, historically used as currency from the Qin Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty, embody cultural heritage and metaphysical significance.
Curated by art connoisseur Nestor Jardin, Lizanne’s 24-piece collection is open to the public until March 21. It is the hotel’s artistic tribute to the Year of the Horse, as the collection embodies success, harmony, and abundance—the commonly perceived qualities of this Lunar Year.
Viewing these masterpieces, one immediately notices the inspiration drawn from ancient symbols of luck, strength, harmony, success, wealth, happiness, and abundance, thus the theme, “Spectrum of Abundance.” It is certainly a most fitting way to welcome the Year of the Horse.
Going over all 24 works, I could easily see that each piece radiates positive energy, a harmony of culture, heritage, and artistic spirit. It was quite difficult for me to choose favorites, as every piece gave me an “AHA moment.” But as I reviewed each piece again, I noticed five that held my gaze longer than the others, awing me with their fusion of colors and the skill required to create them, sparking something pleasantly emotional in me. A couple of these outstanding artworks are shown on this page.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation president Elizabeth Sy, executive vice president Peggy Angeles, guest of honor and TV host Rico Hizon, Conrad Manila general manager Akshat Sinha, and artist Lizanne Uychaco. The celebratory toast was led by Angeles.
All of Lizanne’s artworks are available for acquisition. Additional information may be obtained from Conrad.Manila.info@conradhotels.com or through +632 8833 9999.
For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@gmail.com
