Rachy shines at BayanCuna

There is a palpable degree of nationalism in the latest works of Rachy Cuna. Why not when the floral architect of the Philippines mesmerized the audience once again with his BayanCuna: Unity in Philippine Artistry, a floral installations show at the lobby of Hotel InterContinetal Manila.

“I have always been proud of being a Filipino,” says Rachy Cuna at the opening of the well-attended BayanCuna. No less than Tourism Secretary Ace Durano graced the event with the Bayanihan dance group providing lively numbers. “What better way to pay homage to your own country by celebrating the abundance of flora in our more than 7,000 islands. The Philippines  is rich in natural materials which are always my source of inspiration every time I have exhibits.”

Indeed, nature has constantly become Cuna’s muse. In his latest exhibit — comprising of 15 floral installations that will adorn the lobby of the InterCon until the end of June in celebration of National Heritage Month — he proves to be nature’s ardent suitor.

Rachy is his usual self in BayanCuna — inventive and ingenious, inspired and innovative. Like a work of magic, the ordinary siopao steamers, egg crates, wooden clogs, bingo shakers and even empty gin bottles become extraordinary in the hands of Rachy. A sprig of twig is twisted and tweaked to give it another form, another life. Even driftwoods, dried leaves and dried roots are resuscitated back to life when Rachy’s hands touch them to become part of a new creation.

“Culture is always the greatest emulsifier. When people are divided in thoughts and spirit, what brings them closer is culture. That is what BayanCuna is all about,” explains Rachy, who also mounted floral  installations titled Rachyfied in 2006 and Kawayahihan in 2007 also at the lobby of the Hotel InterContinental Manila.