Acclaimed visual artist Araceli Limcaco Dans embarks on a new exhibit entitled Ang Mundo ni Inay. Dans is best known for her delicate calado paintings in watercolor and acrylic, which Leonor Orosa Goquinco (National Artist of the Philippines for Creative Dance) described as “perfection (in) itself, the epitome of elegance.” In her latest exhibit, she places a spotlight on a timeless subject—motherhood—and focuses on the variety of experiences of the Filipino mother. Ang Mundo ni Inay breathes new life into the world of motherhood in the Philippines.
For the first time, Dans plunges her hands into the world of paper clay sculptures, crafting and painting her figurines using discarded newspaper and glue. These humble materials become the source of her inspiration in creating masterful works such as “Sa Dibdib ni Inay” which took over 9,000 sheets of old newsprint to create, and “Pamilya sa Bundok” which required over 6,000 sheets. She also rendered sculptures in order to further illuminate the diversity of the Filipino family.
Part of the proceeds from the exhibit will benefit the Sagip-Buhay Medical Foundation, Inc., which conducts fundraising activities to help indigent patients receive medication and undergo diagnostic work that can help determine the proper course of treatment. The exhibit is co-sponsored by the University of the Philippines’ (UP) Sigma Delta Phi Alumnae Association.
A graduate of the UP Fine Arts program and a seasoned artist with over 70 years of experience in art making, Dans has held more than 160 exhibits both local and abroad. A multi-awarded artist, she has received a roster of recognitions such as: the Centennial Award for Painting and Art Education from the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Mariang Maya Award for Outstanding Achievement in Visual Arts and the Art Distinction Award for Painting and Art Education from the City of Manila, among others.
Furthermore, she has been honored by the UP and Philippine Women’s University alumni associations for her contributions in the field of visual art and art education. Unknown to some, Dans established the Arts Education Program of the Ateneo de Manila Grade School, as well as the College of Fine Arts of the Philippine Women’s University. She has also served as the President of the UP College of Fine Arts Alumni Association.
“Ang Mundo ni Inay” was launched to the public on Sept. 22 at ArtistSpace of the Ayala Museum. The exhibit will run until Oct. 4.