Handcrafted furniture as artwork

CEBU, Philippines — With developments in the tech-driven manufacturing sectors currently the trend, can it be said that the glory days of artisanal crafts is coming to an end? Can it be said that handcrafted products have become less and less necessary, given the ways advanced manufacturing processes are churning close-to-handcrafted quality products and wares?

The recent event titled “Inspired Design Through Craftsmanship: A Design Narrative by Detalia Aurora and Sheraton Cebu Mactan” proved that handcrafted are actually artworks to be treasured. Over 50 designers and industrial design students were in attendance to witness and appreciate the intricacies in the making of handcrafted furniture pieces.

Held on October 15 at the showroom of The Residences by Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort in Punta Engaño, Mactan, the event was essentially the kick-off of a forthcoming experiential series of gatherings that focuses on the processes and techniques that’re entailed in the making of Philippine-made world-class wares.

Helming the event’s highlights and activities were Paula and Vicki Rodriguez of the homegrown Detalia Aurora furniture brand. It was an interactive peek into the inner workings of the handcrafted furniture industry. The ladies talked about the many challenges Detalia Aurora had overcome in its more-than-40-year history, as they also led interactive demonstrations of artisanal processes which the brand had mastered through the years: stone inlay lamination, weaving and rattan form manipulation.

The design and manufacturing processes of the furniture pieces result in timeless quality that elevates these to the level of artworks. A piece’s edge, dovetail and finish isn’t just a process but a narrative that speaks of dedication and passion, a quality which machine-manufactured furniture pieces greatly miss out on.

Initiated by Apple One Properties Inc. through its subsidiary The Residences at Sheraton Mactan Cebu (a luxury resort to open in mid-2020), the event was kickoff of the “Inspired Design Through Craftsmanship” series to celebrate the distinct aspects of Cebuano craftsmanship and design. Another such event is planned for early next year.