Artipelago II: The Phl Pavilion shines at Maison & Objet
The Philippine Pavilion designed by Antonio R. Mendoza was again a top attraction at Maison & Objet (meaning “home and object”) at the Parc des Expositions in Villepinte, a suburb of Paris, France.
The same structure last year was used again for the booth this year but last year’s black walls were painted gray this time. Called “Artipelago II,” this year’s booth was slightly bigger than last year’s as the display space around the booth was made available for more furniture.
Regarded as a major trade event in Europe, Maison & Objet has brought international attention to Philippine-made design and lifestyle products. The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) brought together Filipino companies to showcase Filipino craftsmanship at Maison & Objet 2025. The Philippine pavilion was curated by Mendoza of Galerie d’Antoine with the cooperation of DF Art Agency.
Showcased were proudly Philippine-made products from Artifeks:, Cebu Homecraft, Coast Pacific, CSM Philippines Inc., Fifty One, Finali, JB Woodcraft Inc., Jorge Yulo, Mele + Marie, Prizmic and Brill, South Sea, Tadeco Home, Tahanan Furniture, Triboa Bay Living, Weavemanila Inc., and Zarate Manila. And just like last year, Filipino artworks were included, together with furniture and accessories. This is only the second time this has been done at Maison & Objet.
Filipino art proudly displayed were by Anna Bautista, Briccio Santos, Chino Yulo, Daniel dela Cruz, Demet dela Cruz, Demi Padua, Dino Gabito, Ezekiel Fajardo, Isko Andrade, Jana Benitez, Joshua Torres, Lilianna Manahan, Marrie Saplad, Pongbayog, and Tita Halaman.
First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos lauded the endeavor.
“It is with great pride that I extend my warmest congratulations to the organizers, artists and artisans behind Artipelago II, a celebration of the Philippines’ unparalleled creativity and rich cultural heritage. This remarkable exhibit showcases the beauty and diversity of our 7,641 islands through furniture that tells a story -- not just of design, but of identity, resilience and connection. Each piece reflects the spirit of our people, the vibrancy of our traditions and the enduring relationship we share with the world.
“As Filipinos, we carry with us the artistry of generations, inspired by the islands that bind us as one nation. This exhibit is a testament to the boundless talent and ingenuity of our people, who continue to make their mark on the global stage.
“To Galerie D’Antoine, DF Art Agency, CITEM, Maison & Objet Paris and to everyone who made this vision a reality, thank you for reminding us of the beauty of our country.”
Mendoza, for his part, stated, “Despite coming from different islands as an archipelago, speaking different dialects, and being influenced by the different countries that conquered the Philippines, one thing that always prevails is the human creative skill and imagination of the artist. Resembling our (unofficial) national dessert halo-halo, our talented artists from different parts of the archipelago represent the diverse ingredients combining different styles influenced by various cultures that have influenced the country for hundreds of years, which has created a special world-class talent with a common soul that is truly Filipino.”
Orders from clients this year increased from last year and there were more sales and inquiries on both art and furniture. The world is indeed beginning to notice and appreciate the creativity of the Filipino.
If the momentum of Filipino participation in exhibitions like Maison & Objet continues, Filipino craftsmanship will undoubtedly gain the international recognition it deserves. With each exhibition, the world becomes more aware of the unique and high-quality work coming from the Philippines, allowing the country’s artistry to shine on the international stage.
We look forward to an even bigger contingent to participate in Maison & Objet 2026! Congratulations to all involved with this project!
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