MANILA, Philippines - Artwork, known for its quirky tops at affordable prices, kicked off its fifth annual T-shirt design competition with a two-pronged event at the cinema lobby of TriNoma: a silk-screening party and an exhibit featuring the results of its latest creative project, dubbed “5 x 5.”
The silk-screening party was intended to give people a closer look at the T-shirt design process and spur them on to customize their clothing. An interested participant could purchase a plain white shirt, which would then be imprinted with a design of their choice at one of the six silk-screening stations that had been set up for the purpose. Artwork’s Cristina Villamiel said that party was envisioned as “a way to encourage people to make art.” “We loved the silk-screening experience!” tweeted Thysz Estrada (@thysz), marketing manager of Moon Leaf Tea Shop.
While some of the designs were familiar to and well-loved by Artwork aficionados, others had been made specifically for the party. The evening was capped off with a concert by Up Dharma Down, to the delight of fans of the acclaimed indie rock band. “A great night experience with Up Dharma Down. The best!” a giddy Maan Fragante (@ItsSuperMAAN) said afterwards.
“5 x 5” was held in partnership with five prominent names in the local art scene: graphic designer AJ Dimarucot, creative duo Everywhere We Shoot, poster designer JP Cuison, apparel brand Nick Automatic, and Up Dharma Down, whose drummer Ean Mayor is a graphic designer by profession. Villamiel explained that the process of collaboration took about two months and each artist involved came up with at least two designs. They were asked to play around the fifth-year theme, which some did, while “the others did their own thing,” she said with a laugh.
The “5 x 5” shirts, which have been produced in limited editions, form the core of an exhibit which will travel to Ayala Center Cebu (until Sept. 18) and Abreeza Davao (Sept. 16-25). Everywhere We Shoot directed a brief accompanying video set to music by Up Dharma Down. The shirts are set to arrive in stores soon.
Artwork believes that its competition inspires young people to express themselves creatively. Entries are judged by a panel of artists, designers, and style authorities. Villamiel noted that “having our number of participants grow every year is a good sign that they are enjoying it.”
The energy doesn’t flow just one way, however: “Having winners from our previous contests who are now building their names in the visual art scene is an inspiration for us,” she said. “We will definitely have future projects that will involve the youth. Our T-shirt design contest will continue every year, that’s for sure.”
A 13” Macbook is in store for the grand prize winner, while cash prizes, gift packages, and gift certificates await the other winners. The competition is open to artists, 13 to 30 years old. Submissions will be accepted until Oct. 20. For more details, visit any Artwork branch or log on to www.artwork.ph.