Artsy Swatch celebrates Philippine art

Whether it was the animated caricatures of Keith Haring’s men, the limited-edition piece designed by noted filmmaker Akira Kurosawa, or the zany watches by American fashion designer Jeremy Scott — it is Swatch that has really been able to create culturally literate watches over the years, by collaborating with painters, sculptors, video artists, filmmakers, musicians, photographers, designers and conceptual artists for decades. They have been doing creative collaborations even before it became a trend. Who knew we could have pieces designed by such talents for our very own?

This year, as Swatch Philippines celebrates its 25th year anniversary, they are kick-starting the merriment by celebrating the local contemporary art scene. Swatch co-presented the Art Fair Philippines, mounted once again at The Link car park in Ayala Center ongoing until 9 p.m. today.

Swatch’s participation in the art fair is further reminder that horology stretches outside of just conventional watch design. Through decades, they have maintained their pop art aesthetic, with bursts of color and twists that make the pieces fresh and exciting. Their designs have always had their own story, aspiring to be pieces of art all their own while maintaining the functionality of the timepiece. It is through Swatch’s pieces that we are able to have works from highly acclaimed artists and designers on our wrists. Wearable art. And no longer just reserved for the highbrow.

Last Feb. 19, the luxe Swatch VIP lounge was where they held the Private Preview, and launched the work of National Artist BenCab’s Dynamic Happy Horse, which ties in with Swatch’s Year of the Horse Watch launched earlier this year.

In attendance at the event were Swiss Ambassador Ivo Sieber, representative of the country where Swatch’s heritage comes from; Swatch Ambassadors Lea Salonga, John Lloyd Cruz; and Swatch’s Virgie Ramos. Guests from the art industry matched their outfits to the Chinese-calligraphy inspired watch. Will there be talk of a possible Sabel watch in the future?

Swatch also sponsored some special exhibits, which includes some of the finest contemporary artists of today, starting with award-winning painter, sculptor and animator Louie Cordero, whose comic book series has grown a cult following in the Philippines and Japan. His installation of kooky and colorful ping-pong tables was situated at the center of the parking lot, definitely a show stealer. Swatch also presented the work of Rodel Tapaya, whose dark paintings of our local alamat bring to life our oral traditions. Then there is also artist Jose Santos III whose works have been sold at the auction of Contemporary Asian Art by the prestigious Christie’s of Hong Kong. His works are the first to greet you as you step into the Art Fair, in which he questions the eloquence of a banal object like a bag. And lastly, Swatch presents Marina Cruz, who has held numerous solo and group exhibitions in the Philippines, Taiwan, China, Australia and Singapore. Her paintings of dresses and dolls continue to move the viewer with nostalgia.

Despite the numerous exhibitors, Swatch created their own installation as well: a beautiful metal frame with detailed pastries. Food and art combined in the art piece, an edible assemblage conceptualized by Gino Gonzales, which also featured the line of Swatch’s sweet watches. It’s a colorful treat for the eyes and for the taste buds.

And to cap off their 25th year in art, one of the most fantastic endeavors that Swatch is doing to roister contemporary art is a sponsored residency for an artist to live for three to six months in the Swatch Art Peace Hotel at the prestigious Bund neighborhood in Shanghai. Artists can apply online to be one of the 18 chosen to live in the bustling city, to be able to interact with other artists all over the world. The only obligation for the artist is to leave a “trace” (one art piece) behind upon completion of his or her stay.

Swatch has always had a presence in art scenes all over the world, and it is exciting that they are immersing in the growing scene here. Every Swatch piece has strived to make a bold statement, just like the art pieces of today. Through the decades, they have actually always been in the business of creating little pieces of art, pieces that we can wear, that are functional, and always fun.