The beauty of the Filipina is more than skin deep. She is imbued with unique virtues that set her apart from other women – and this is what artist Arden Siarot conveyed at the recently concluded MANILA F.A.M.E 2015 where he paid tribute to the spirit and enduring qualities of the Filipino woman in a collection called “La Divina Filipina.”
The artist’s latest works feature aspects of the modern Filipina that reflect both her Oriental and Western lineage, and pay homage to her endearing traits. Combining shell and metal, Arden creates sculptures that capture the essential beauty of the Filipina psyche and the strength of her will.
“La Divina Filipina” depicts feminine forms in various poses – in prayer, in labor, in poetic stances and movements of power – in essence, his interpretation of the Filipina’s singular beauty. To these, he ingeniously incorporates a myriad of seashells to form a unified and fluid work of art.
In “La Divina Filipina,” Arden’s fascination finds expression in exquisite art decor named after the many admirable characteristics of the Filipina.
“Beauty” is a silver-plated bust with long, flowing locks to provide a welcome gentleness to the sculpture; the smooth and polished visage is a picture of serenity and quiet elegance. It aims to essay the Filipina’s physical beauty, her lovely gaze, her luxurious locks, and her mixed Oriental and Occidental parentage. Crowning the head is a beautiful Frog Shell that lends a hint of color and texture to the sleek art work.
“Compassion,” on the other hand, epitomizes the Filipina’s kind-hearted spirit. Arden interprets the bounty of her spirit through a vessel made from polished Nautilus. It is cradled by a silver sculpture, modernistic in style, to represent the giving nature of the Filipina.
“Leadership” represents the Filipina’s natural ability to take the reins in order to accomplish daunting tasks. Arden’s two elegant versions of “Nurturing” are an expressive interpretation of motherhood, with a shell fashioned as a woman’s womb, lovingly cradling life before it sees the light of day.
That the Filipina holds immeasurable power can never be doubted. Philippine history has seen the rise of feminine figures who rose to fame and prominence because of their singular ability to hold sway over the nation, their uncanny ability to motivate and inspire, their determination to change the course of a county’s history. Arden’s “Power” embodies all that is spellbinding and astounding about the Filipina. It is the artist’s evocative vision of the Filipina as goddess. Here, he creates a silver divinity with mother-of-pearl wings, emerging dramatically from her own shell to cast her brand of potency.
“La Divina Filipina” forms part of Arden’s double collection unveiled at the Manila F.A.M.E 2015 design and lifestyle event. His other collection, entitled “Journey,” is the artist’s tribute to the seafaring explorers of old and their magnificent marine vessels. Together, “La Divina Filipina” and “Journey” mark Arden Siarot’s third exhibit following the highly successful “Vita Fauna” and “Cada Dia” exhibits also at the Manila F.A.M.E.
F.A.M.E. is the country’s premier trade platform for exports and design, providing opportunities for small and medium scale entrepreneurs to showcase their products in the world market. Manila FAME is one of the longest running trade shows in the Asia-Pacific, featuring the latest Philippine-made creations from artisans and manufacturers and is the only trade event in the country approved by UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry.
For more of Arden Siarot’s creations, check out the Arden store located at the 3rd floor of Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City .