MANILA, Philippines - With an original piece of Philippine art outside every residential unit, luxury residential development Raffles Residences Makati is a haven for contemporary art appreciation.
Guests and residents who walk through the hallways of this high-end residential complex in the heart of Makati will view the works of up-and-coming artists reflecting aspects of Philippine culture. Outside each of the 237 residential units is an original painting — and not the usual print or photo. Moreover, each floor of the Residences will house a theme executed by an individual painter, providing the experience of an art exhibit.
James Bevans, hotel manager of the Raffles Makati, observes that the rare and unique collection put together for Raffles residents and guests was intended to showcase the richness of Philippine history and culture. “We invited an international art consultant to work with the interior design team and immerse herself in local art for half a year. Her objective was to put together a glimpse of Philippine culture through the works of its outstanding contemporary painters.”
Diverse themes ranging from an abstract interpretation of the Makati skyline to the Flores de Mayo festival to details of Philippine homes will be showcased in this exclusive exercise in art appreciation. Max Balatbat currently one of the leading abstract painters in Manila, will focus on urban textures and geometric patterns. The works of this Silver Award Winner of the Florence Biennale (one of the world’s largest contemporary art events) will line the corridors of the 11th floor by capturing the Makati skyline through acrylic techniques.
On the 16th floor of Raffles Residences Makati, the exuberance and gaiety of the Flores de Mayo pageant will be portrayed in the acrylics of Clarence Eduarte. Vignettes from this age-old Catholic festival mixed with windows of old Philippine homes are rendered in bold colors by this distinguished artist.
Meanwhile, details of Filipino heritage homes by Aldrie Acosta will be displayed on yet another floor. He uses a special impressionistic style when rendering the stonewalls and details of Spanish-influenced houses.
Acosta’s works dwell on the intricate detailing of household items found in the homes of Mindanao’s indigenous peoples. They will be displayed at the owners’ lounge of the Residences. His eye for these fine points was honed following a nine-year interest in painting Islamic designs and calligraphy.
Inside the exclusive residences, the works of a variety of other Filipino painters are also highlighted. Every unit is a repository for a one-of-a-kind collection of local art. “Each unit will allow a different preview into the best of local art,” says Bevans.
The Raffles Residences also features an exceptional array of amenities and services in the most sought-after location in Makati. “We are pleased that the art pieces compliment the unrivaled standards of this unique complex as a whole. These art pieces have their very own history. With almost 90 percent of the residences sold to date, there are only a few more opportunities for individuals to claim a part of this history – a history we can imaginatively bring to life in these very hallways for the residents and guests to appreciate and enjoy,” notes Bevans.