SM redefines art spaces with ‘Art in Aura’

[Editor’s note: The following is a press release from SM malls]

MANILA, Philippines – SM Aura Premier brings local art to fresher spaces with “Art in Aura.” The affair was launched May 4 at the Courtyard in SM Aura, Taguig.

The campaign, in collaboration with creative assembly KAPWA Studio, was kicked off with a showcase of murals by notable local artists Anina Rubio, Mercedes Olondriz, Archie Oclos, and multi-hyphenate Dee Jae Pa’este, whose works can already be found all over the metro. 

​Art in Aura also proudly hosts the first solo exhibit of renowned Filipino contemporary artist Philipp B. Badon at the SM Aura Atrium, available until May 31. The show, an expression of his resurgence in the art world, opened with cocktails and an artist dialogue last May 6, 4 pm. ​

SM Aura’s art movement started 3 years ago with Filipino-American artist Jefre Manuel’s “Steel Safari,” a public art installation of 4 animals unique to the Philippines.

It was followed by a Christmas showcase featuring Olivia d’Aboville’s “Giant Dandelions” and Leeroy New’s “Astreopora,” both set to music at the Skypark lawn. 

It also featured artist Eduardo Castrillo’s “Colossal Growth,”​ which was reacquired from Evangelina Gella Luarca in 1989. The artist kept it in storage and restored it in 2013.

Art in Aura redefines the way one interacts with art by using images and patterns rooted in our heritage. For the first part of this year’s campaign, Art in Aura features outstanding local artists by providing them mural spaces.

Freelance visual artist Anina Rubio’s “Through the Cracks” can be seen at the SM Aura Grand Staircase, featuring common household weeds which she likens to Filipino characteristics like resilience and adaptability.

UP Fine Arts graduate street artist Archie Oclos pays homage to our country’s “National Treasures” through depictions of internationally revered mambabatok Apo Whang-Od and Lang Dulay, the T’boli Weave Master.

Manila-based Mercedes Olondriz’ “Flaura” depicts her goal to bring organic elements into the urban landscape.

The featured artists are joined by digital artist, Ramenrocky, whose works illuminated the Courtyard walls during the launch.

Art in Aura opens up space not just for contemporary visual art, but for music. SM Aura partnered with music collective Stages Sessions in a joint effort to provide an alternative space where today’s local musicians can be heard by the public. The launch featured performances by Jess Connelly, Curtismith, Crwn, BP Valenzuela, and Asch.

More live musical performances, alongside art workshops and local artisans, will be available at Art in Aura’s Courtyard Weekend Fair every weekend, starting May 6 and 7.

Art in Aura is a long-standing campaign to promote and welcome art, and will feature more collaboration with artists from all over the country for the rest of the year. 

For more updates on the latest collaborations, featured artists, and events, follow @smaurapremier and @artinaura on Instagram and like Art in Aura on Facebook. – Rappler.com