Blnc No. 10: The 10th Issue

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“magic ten”

JOSEI CUIZON Editor - in - Chief

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A I L E E N WA N G L E A N R E BO JA M I L A K O WA L S K I M Y K I L L P U JA N T E REBECCA BRODSKIS R X A N DY C A P I N P I N SANA CCHABRA S T E P H A LVA R E Z WILMARK JOLINDON J A N I N E A B E J AY

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Editor-in-Chief // Founder

JOSEI CUIZON

Creative Director // Founder

M AT T P I N G K I A N

How about you send us your works?

B L N C M AG @ G M A I L . C O M

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LA NI A I L E E N WA N G Hongkong

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I started interested in visual art since very young. I learn watercolor, oil painting, woodcut, and Chinses calligraphy for years.

Although I enjoy playing with these media, I do not have any art impulse to create or express. In the age of 16, I started to do portrait photography since I love to tell people how unique and beautiful they are in my eyes. In the beginning, my models are mainly my classmates and friends. We brainstormed ideas together, and I would customize a theme for the model, which is most suitable to express her/him personalities. I posted my photography on Instagram, and I received quite a few positive feedback and attention from professional photographers in Hong Kong and Mainland China. Then, I started to collaborate with professional models, and shoot for fashion brands, commercial advertisements and model companies.

I love to try different themes and posts. I do photography, modeling, styling and even makeup for shooting. When I am a model, I can learn from other photographers and vice versa. Thus, it becomes a virtuous cycle. I am very grateful for all of this inspiration and support.

To me, photography is an opportunity to discover the beauty of people and communicate with people’s souls. It’s a way of appreciating, of discoursing and of understanding the relationship between art and humanity. It does change the way I look at a person through the lens of my camera.

Tell us more about your editorial – what’s the story behind this?

It is about Wabi-Sabi’s philosophy. Living in a fast-paced age, people nowadays seldom notice and appreciate the little things. In this series of photos, I let my heart and mind to capture the moment of rustic simplicity, freshness, and quietness.

How did you come up with this concept?

A dream. I dreamed that I was a mayfly. I was sleeping under a river for 364 days when I was an egg. On one exceptional day, I turned into a mayfly and could not wait to fly away. I enjoyed the time of freedom and being alive, although my life only lasts for 24 hours. Hence, I want to show people how life can be beautiful and precious when they slow down their pace of life.

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Living as you mean it as life itself is the best source of inspiration.

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My photography Instagram: @0__aileen__0 My personal Instagram: @aileen_chichi Email: chichiw@126.com

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conscious and unconscious spaces

REBECCA BRODSKIS Paris

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Endless discussion #1 (2019) - Oil on linen, 146x114cm

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Tania Maria (2019) - Oil on linen, 80x60cm

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Attrape moi si tu peux #1 (2019) - Oil on linen, 162x97cm

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Endless discussion #2 (2019) - Oil on linen, 146x114cm 29 B L NC M AGA Z I N E

Bronson (2019) - Oil on linen, 92x73cm 30 B L NC M AGA Z I N E

Salomon (2019) - Oil on linen, 116x73cm

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Nikita (2019) - Oil on linen, 100x80cm 32 B L NC M AGA Z I N E

What do you think is the role of art in todays society I think art should allow one to escape reality for a moment.

I am not a fan of political art for example because in my opinion art should allow us to dream, to transcend reality, to bring us to some other dimensions.

My name is Rebecca Brodskis I am a 30 years old painter based in Paris. I paint with oil. I completed my studies in London at Central St Martins college of art and design.

What originally made you want to become an painter?

I grew up partly in Morocco at my grand-mother’s place. She was a painter herself and from as far as I can remember painting always had a very central place in my life. I didn’t really take it seriously until my mid twenties though...

How would you describe your style? How is it different?

I paint people, the ones I know, the ones I see on the streets, on trains, the ones haunting my dreams. My paintings are figurative but my aim is not to depict reality perfectly. I like simple and strong lines. The idea is also never to set any recognizable landscape to give an impression of timelessness to the paintings.

Take us through your design process, where do you start?

It starts in my head and then directly on the canvas. I don’t like making sketches. I just take some charcoal and mark the main lines on the linen and then I start straight away. The first layer is done very quickly. Once the linen is entirely covered then starts the real work of painting and getting into the details.

Who has influenced you to become an illustrator/painting?

There were many painters among my parent’s friends and also in my family. I grew up in a very ‘artistic’ environment and even though i wanted to be a truck driver as a little girl I didn’t manage to escape the family guide lines...

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Regards Obliques (2019) - Oil on linen, 100x80cm 34 B L NC M AGA Z I N E

Who are the artists you look up to?

I really love the works of Marlene Dumas, I find her portraits absolutely mesmerizing. I am also very inspired by the paintings of Balthus, Schiele, Dix, Schad and many others. The list is long !

Where do you look for inspiration?

My inspiration comes from the people that surround me and people that I see streets.

My journeys in my everyday life are my main inspiration.

Tell us more about these paintings..

My paintings are a sort of diary. A record of people I meet or see, of situations that marked me. They are a contemplation of the work I live in.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve heard?

Nothing comes without hard work. As an artist you need a very strong discipline. You need to treat your atelier like an office. Be there everyday even when you have nothing to say. It’s all about discipline.

Where can we see your works and how can people reach you?

You can see my works on Instagram Rebecca Brodskis otherwise I will be showing some paintings at galeristes in Paris the 17th of October and in a few other shows this year that will all be announced on my Instagram page.

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If you don’t succeed at first try try try again.

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Ma vie fragmentee (2019) - Oil on linen, 100x80cm 36 B L NC M AGA Z I N E

A cet instant (2018) - Oil on linen, 195x130cm

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Rêveuse SANA CHHABRA Paris

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Photographer : Sana Chhabra @sanachhabraphotog Hair & Make-up : Rashmi Shastri @rashmishastri Stylist : Vivek Chaubey @chaubeyviv Model : Helloise Cunha @helloise_cunha

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against the machine J O H N “ M Y K I L L� P U J A N T E Cebu

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Art represents a form of individual expression. it acts like a private space where everyone can become theirselves, express their feelings, ideas or opinion freely be it in dancing, music or any other form of art John “mykill” pujante, 26 yrs old, Cebu based artist.

Style: surrealism Medium: acrylic Achievements: 3rd place in the 51st shell national students art competition 2019, oil and acrylic category.

1st place in caps and cans 2 graffiti battle 2017 What originally made you want to become an illustrator I never really thought of becoming an artist (intentionally) It just so happened that I enjoyed drawing when I was a kid and eventually evolved into painting when I got the chance to go to an art school here in Cebu.

How would you describe your style? How is it different?

I describe it as a fantasy like surreal type of style.

I can say it’s different since most of my concept came from my own personal past/present experiences. I like to reinvent the scene or past memories and include elements that I like and give a pastel’ish and dead colors (as I call it) to my artwork in order for it to have a nostalgic feel, aura or energy.

I actually start by doing nothing or do stuff that are not art related since I don’t usually force myself to create something, It just pops out my head and build on it until I’ll be able to come up with a concept.

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Mastery can be achieved in repetition

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Who has influenced you to become an illustrator/painting?

My older brother used to draw different kind of characters (dragon ball z) at the back of his notebook when I was young and I think that is the reason why I liked drawing.

Who are the artists you look up to?

All of my artist friends in Cebu (koliktib-koliktib artist group) Where do you look for inspiration?

Daily/past experiences, family, friends, music.

Tell us more about these illustrations..

“Silent torment”- the story of the family of my late uncle that died in a car accident (my uncle was the only one who survived) “Ataraxia” -its a recreation of Adam and Eve but changed the apple into a red painted like apple bomb “Over break”- a story of years of unwillingly working in a corporate world.

“Hiatus” - a story of a selfish decision.

“Untitled”- a recreation of “American gothic” but changed it into my own characters.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve heard?

If you want to be good at what you do, find and go with the people who are good at it.

Where can we see your works and how can people reach you?

They can view my works at my instagram account @mykiiill Whats your ultimate DREAM as an illustrator?

To make money out of the things that I love to do.??

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SMACK IT UP! SMACK IT UP! Photography & Creative Direction Rxandy Capinpin Model D i m a a t Wo m e n ’s F o l i o

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YRIA

L E A N R E BO JA Cebu

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ean Reboja, was born in Davao, but is currently residing in Cebu. He was born on February 18, 1991. He studied at the University of the Philippines Cebu. Lean, whose works have been attributed towards illustration art more than just traditional painting, have created works in formal art settings such as galleries and pop up art exhibition venues in the local scene.

He also goes by the moniker name “Leanderthal” which is commonly associated with the Dreamcloud icon, noticeable in his works. Each piece is intricately done with a narrative of a snippet of his life, an aspect dissected by many of his collectors. Reboja delves into creating sporadic and colorful characters, usually having a closely relative appearance with beasts and animals. These are then set against each other, a juxtaposition of them all together in one art composition.

The signature figure of the “Dreamcloud”, a cloud-riding biographical character whose arms are raised to heaven is placed often on each artwork, depicting the artist as an individual that fervently aims in achieving his ambitions in life. Lean’s autobiographical themes usually signify events and memories, human behavior, experiences and emotions set into a metaphorical way of artistic expression. His art relays all these concepts in a riddle packed with intricately drawn and painted elements.

FACEBOOK: Lean Reboja, @leanderthalart INSTAGRAM: @leanreboja

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Side-quests 18” x 21” Acrylic and aerosol paint on canvas 2019

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RECENT ARTWORKS

Ambitious beasts 4 ft. x 8 ft. (Diptych) Acrylic on canvas 2017

At your own pace 2 ft. x 4 ft. (Diptych) Acrylic and aerosol paint on canvas 2018

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Andam kanunay 12” x 18” Acrylic, aerosol paint, ink and die cut matte-board on canvas 2019

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Isog apan huyang 12” x 18” Acrylic, aerosol paint, ink and die cut matte-board on canvas 2019

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BEJEWELED J A N I N E C A R L A A B E J AY Makati, Philippines

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My name is Janine Carla Abejay, and I’m based in Makati City, Philippines. I’m originally from Davao City, and that’s where I started learning photography. Beginning my interest in Photojournalism during high school, I developed a love for image-making. I only received training from workshops in school, but I’ve never joined any paid photography training. Although, I am open to the idea of studying photography abroad. Right now, I write, create, and produce content for Beauty Bubble Online, a beauty e-commerce platform.

Tell us how did you get into photography. When did your interest in photography start?

I had a fascination with cameras when I was young, playfully examining my dad’s Minolta at the age of 2. During my teenage years, I learned how to create images through my point and shoot camera and had friends with me who are equally interested in photography. I then joined the school publication which honed my technical skills, and it trickled to college where I continuously did Photojournalism. I tried venturing to portrait and event photography, but I was constantly pulled by the gravity of beauty and fashion. I must say I’m still coursing through fashion, but beauty spoke to me like a big batch of delicious cupcakes. I wanted to perfect my craft in close-up beauty and retouching, and this catapulted when I traveled to Vancouver and shot local models. I then found my style and craft, but I’m continuously evolving to discover new ways of making images that boldly communicate beauty and fashion.

How will you describe your style in photography?

I would describe my style as very skin-centered and edgy. I always look into inspirations from magazines such as i-D, Dazed, and Wonderland. Although my work may be yet far off from the mediums I’ve mentioned, I’m doing my best to emulate their boldness through my choice of lighting, styling, and makeup. I like my post-processing with deep blacks and brilliant highlights, and I see to it that the skin is very realistic. I also want my models to pose with a certain attitude and to exude an edgy and bold vibe. I’d say my weakness would be doing something feminine and soft, but hey I can take the challenge!

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Photographer : Janine Abejay Make-up : Nadia Hoecklin Hair : Elle Obando Stylist : Vivek Chaubey @chaubeyviv Model : Anastassiya and Amina of Lizbell Agency Shoot Assistant : Tommy Monteverde

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Tell us more about your editorial – what’s the story behind this?

When I do my editorials, I always like the light to be centered on one side and create interesting shadows. I also like adding elements of grey, blue, and black. My retouching also isn’t centered on the color treatment, because I don’t play much with colors. What I specifically desire in my photographs is their stark clarity and bold lights and shadows.

How did you come up with this concept?

I usually come up with a concept by first starting to look for makeup pegs.

Since I’m mostly centered on beauty, I always look for inspirations online and see the latest trends in beauty. I scour images from fashion weeks, international makeup artists, or simply inspirations from Instagram. For fashion styling, I’m still trying to master what good styling means, but it has definitely pulled my attention more these days. I guess it’s because I’ve delved into makeup so much that I found a new interest in learning about fashion.

Anything interesting or memorable about the shoot and did you experiment or had a new approach to this particular shoot?

What’s always memorable to me is my interaction with my models and how in awe I am with how good they are. They make modeling true to its namesake. Also, I try to switch up my techniques by using different kinds of modifiers or reflectors. It’s an experiment each time and I enjoy doing something different to make it unique for that specific shoot.

What’s next for you? Any exciting plans for the future?

Well, the future is blank for now! I’m still planning to do more editorials to fill my portfolio, but I really want to try studying abroad. I also want to try my luck there. Who knows! I always come in as a surprise to many people, and I love that shock value.

What is the best advice you’ve heard?

I wasn’t the best officer for my university’s photography club, but at the time, our tagline was “The best camera is the one in your hand”. This is true, because, in all honesty, other people have better gear than me. Truth be told, I have the crappiest gear! I don’t have the best camera body and lens, nor do I have the lighting equipment. Others really have it better than me, but what I did was I make up the lack of it by mastering my light, quality, and style.

My old Nikon D90 is a sweet little lady, and she always takes the sharpest photos. For those who are starting out, always level your work with the best and look for solid inspirations. You can’t have an expensive camera with a lackluster output. Finetune your taste and the rest will follow.

Where can people contact you or see your works?

You may contact me through my email at janineabejay@gmail.com, and see my works through my Instagram page at @janineabejay. Hope y’all will like my works!

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T H E B A R R E N S O I L

M I L A K O WA L S K I

Saint-Petersburg Russia

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What is your ultimate DREAM? Creating the art project on the edge of genres. Destruct the form for birth open space for free thinking, feeling and true dialogue.

Mila Kowalski, 31, live in Saint-Petersburg (Russia), fly all over the world. Photocollege (Saint-Petersburg, Russia) and my best teacher is nature.

Tell us how did you get into photography. When did your interest in photography start?

First time I took the camera ~8 years ago. I was looking for shapes to express my feelings, to catch the beauty (or ugliness) that I see. Earlier it was like a psychotherapy for me. Then I feel more attentive and sensitive to my calling, not so utilitarian.

How will you describe your style in photography?

I think it’s sensitive space of “true portraits”, cinematic pictures, all the manifestations of femininity, paradoxes, inexplicable but the fact, silence.

Tell us more about your editorial – what’s the story behind this?

“The barren soil” series is about the inner feelings of belief in ourselves even if everything around us against.

Species distribution is the manner in which a biological taxon is spatially in area. Faced with aggressive habitat we feel heterogeneity and aloofness.

Maybe it’s just a destructive environment out, but it`s not something wrong with you.

The series is my tiny psychological research.

How did you come up with this concept?

It’s just a part of my philosophy. I think we should fight for ourselves. For our feelings, thoughts, Identity, choice and own way. It’s not about war, on the contrary - it’s all about peace.

Anything interesting or memorable about the shoot and did you experiment or had a new approach to this particular shoot?

It was collaboration with other photographer and artist Nastasia Kvariani (Moscow) and it was our first meeting. I shoot her and vise versa. It was another location we searched, but we decide to stay there after hours of scouting with wrong navigation (it’s really perfect place that I understand later).

What’s next for you? Any exciting plans for the future?

No competition and no rush. Just want be in pleasure with my camera passion, see the beauty and make an honest exchange with the Universe.

What is the best advice you’ve heard?

“Let’s risk”. Told one polish old man in Warsaw near the metro entrance when I can’t understand how to buy the ticket. It’s universal advice.

Where can people contact you or see your works?

Please welcome to my Instagram @misskowalski and website milakowalski.com ✨ _______

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Species distribution is the manner in w h i c h a b i o l o g i c a l ta x o n i s s pat i a l ly i n a r e a .

Fa c e d w i t h a g g r e s s i v e h a b i tat w e f e e l h e t e ro g e n e i t y a n d a l o o f n e s s .

M a y b e i t ’ s j u s t a d e s t ru c t i v e e n v i ro n m e n t o u t , b u t i t ` s n o t s o m e t h i n g w ro n g w i t h y o u .

T h e s t o ry i s a b o u t t h e i n n e r f e e l i n g s o f b e l i e v e i n o u r s e lv e s e v e n i f e v e ry t h i n g a ro u n d i s a g a i n s t .

Creative director, photographer: Mila Kowalski www.instagram.com/misskowalski/ Model: Nastasia Kvariani www.instagram.com/aqvari/

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ROSE PETALS S T E P H A LVA R E Z

Las Piñas, Manila

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What do you think is the role of art in today’s society?

I see a lot of artists use art not just as a form of self-expression, but also as a tool to tackle current social concerns that other people find hard to talk about. I think that it’s great as it starts a conversation on certain topics, and through art, we actually get to talk about them and hopefully find a solution to them. Especially with this generation, people have become more aware and accepting of art as part of everyday life, which makes it a very effective tool to address these concerns.

My name is Steph Alvarez, a 30-year-old visual artist based from Las Pinas City, Metro Manila. I am a painter, an illustrator and also an art instructor. I mainly work with watercolor, graphite and paper, but have also dabbled in pen, acrylic and gouache. As a painter, I started my career by doing portrait works, then branched out to being an illustrator and an art instructor. As an illustrator, I’ve made commercial illustrations for various clients, notably The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Philippines, Avon Philippines, Guess, Regatta and Benefit Cosmetics. When not working on personal work or commissions, I teach watercolor painting focusing on portraiture and on illustration. Last 2018, I’ve been featured in Avon Philippines campaign on women empowerment. I’ve also been featured in other publications (online and in print) such as Art+ Magazine Philippines, My Modern Met and Trip Magazine. I’ve also participated in various group exhibits around Metro Manila.

What originally made you want to become an illustrator?

To be honest, I didn’t really think of becoming an illustrator before.

I wanted to take up a Fine Arts course but ended taking up Architecture, due to my parents’ wishes. While working as an architect, I also took on portrait commissions as a sideline work. It was only later on that a friend told me they were looking for someone to illustrate for a certain coffee company, so I took on the job. After that, lots of other illustration work came after, of which I am truly grateful.

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How would you describe your style? How is it different?

My style is heavily influenced by Japanese animation, music and of fashion, which then evolved into something which is my own. I like stylizing the female form and incorporating it with elements of nature, which I also stylize.

I am a fan of surreal and whimsical art, characteristics which some people tell me my works have. Most of my works are very colorful, but lately I am also exploring working with a muted palette.

Take us through your design process, where do you start?

Before, I would be very spontaneous in creating art but now, I take a more careful approach. I would jot down the concept on my notebook, and then create a rough study on how I want the work to look like. Then, I create the line art and paint on it. Sometimes, it would take me longer to work on a painting due to lack of references. It’s difficult for me to imagine poses, so I rely heavily on reference photos for the pose of my subjects. I would just stylize them to fit the concept I have in mind. If I can’t find a photo to base on, I use my face as reference. Sometimes, I also ask my sisters to pose for me.

I find it really helpful listening to music as I work. It helps me focus as I get distracted easily. Sometimes, it is where I find inspiration also.

Who has influenced you to become an illustrator?

Nobody, actually. Although as a teenager, I would create drawings of characters from the short stories and fan fiction that I wrote. I guess that was the earliest that I actually dabbled in illustration.

Who are the artists you look up to?

Locally -- Patricia Perez Eustaquio, Iyan de Jesus, Aubrey Caabay, Reen Barrera. Internationally -- Audrey Kawasaki, James Jean, Tran Nguyen, Yasunari Ikenaga Where do you look for inspiration?

Most of my personal works explore themes on the Self, so obviously most of them are inspired by personal experiences. Often times, music and nature also inspire me to create. Currently, I find inspiration in my mother’s garden.

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Tell us more about these illustrations.

As previously mentioned, my paintings are narratives exploring the Self, touching upon themes dealing with existential, familial and other personal concerns. They also reflect my personal understanding of human nature, redemption and faith. So themes of the works featured here also revolve around those concerns. Ever since, art has been a way for me to make sense of things happening to me that I find difficult to talk about or make sense of. The reason of making art is rather selfish, but in knowing myself more through it, I get to accept my situation and acknowledge my flaws, and with that knowledge learn how to be more compassionate and empathetic towards others.

Recently, I’ve been working on a series of works that celebrate my 30th birthday, and at the same time, reflect on my growth as a person over the years. These are reflected through a watercolor simulation of Marian rose petals, which is symbolic of the kind of upbringing I’ve received.

Three works from that series can be found in the artworks featured in this interview. It is a triptych that is symbolic of the three timelines of my life so far: my childhood, teenage-hood and young adulthood. The eyes in the petals are portraits of some of the people who have been instrumental to my upbringing over the years. This triptych work was shown in a group exhibit last September 2019. I plan to finish the series of works before my 31st birthday, and hopefully show them in an exhibit soon!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve heard?

Believe in your work. Don’t doubt yourself! (And stop overthinking hehe) What is your personal motto?

Rest, but don’t quit.

Where can we see your works and how can people reach you?

You may check out my works at my website, www.stephalvarez.com.

I also have a Facebook page and an Instagram account. Just look for Steph Alvarez. :)

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THE FOOL blank slates, beginnings, folly

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ARCANA BREATHE LIFE INTO THE MYSTERIES OF THE TAROT WITH THE DESIGNS FROM EMERGING FILIPINO FASHION TALENTS

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QUERENT

(n.) A person who asks or enquires

BABYDOLL DRESS: ANGEL LINSANGAN

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MEDIUM

(n.) An individual held to be a channel of communication between the earthly world and the realm of spirits

SMOCKED COAT: PATRICE BY CHARLOTTE BLANQUISCO / EARRINGS: NEIL + MARTER

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THE SUN

invigoration, enlightenment, positivity

VEGAN LEATHER CROWN AND THE LITTLE PRINCE COAT: JANN BUNGCARAS TULLE SKIRT: VANESSA PINLAC / EARRINGS: NEIL + MARTER

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THE HANGED MAN

suspension, sacrifice, changed perspectives

ROMPER WITH SCULPTURAL BAMBOO SKIRT AND ARM PIECE: ANDREA AMOR EARRINGS: NEIL + MARTER

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THE EMPRESS

abundance, vibrance, femininity

SEQUIN DRESS: VANESSA PINLAC / EARRINGS: NEIL + MARTER

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THE HIEROPHANT

education, beliefs, conformity SOUTANE INSPIRED DRESS, HALF LONG EMBROIDERED VEST & EMBROIDERED MITRE HEADPIECE: ROBERT ANDREW HIYAS

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THE LOVERS

unions, values, romance

RED GOWN: CHEYENNE SAROL / WHITE GOWN: AUREA VINLUAN

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STRENGTH

composure, patience, inner strength

WHITE DRESS: BRIX BATTALER / EMBELLISHED JACKET: CARL ARCUSA EARRINGS: NEIL + MARTER

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THE HERMIT

solitude, meditation, introspection OVERSIZED COAT & DRESS: BRIX BATTALER EARRINGS: NEIL + MARTER

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DEATH

elimination, transitions, inescapable situations

KNIT DRESS: CHEYENNE SAROL / WAX MASK (USED AS NECKPIECE): AVANT ART MNL

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THE STAR

inspiration, hope, serenity

RUFFLE DRESS: AL REY ROSANO / EARRINGS: NEIL + MARTER

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WHEEL OF FORTUNE

impermanence, turning points, destiny

GRAPHIC TOP, SKIRT & TROUSERS: B. BY BEA GUERRERO / EARRINGS: NEIL + MARTER

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THE DEVIL

bondage, ignorance, hopelessness PIÑA BUTTON SHIRT, TROUSERS & RATTAN HAT: IRRICA LEE CORSET: CARL ARCUSA EARRINGS: NEIL + MARTER

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Creative Director: Jobo Nacpil Photographer: Wilmark Jolindon assisted by Mark Carlos Stylist: Gee Jocson assisted by James Bradlee Gomez and Steph Aparici Makeup: Sylvina Lopez Hair: Renz Guevarra Models: Joanna Pojas of PMAP and Yumi Aleena of Farah Models Production Design: Steven Doloso and Datu Leo of Juxtaposition Co.

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THE 10 NEW BREED OF FASHION DESIGNERS GRADUATES OF FASHION INSTITUTE OF DESIGN & ARTS CEBU

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I am Anna David. I have always been artistic one in the family. I always had a pen and paper sketching my life away. I used my dolls as inspiration. As I grew older, I looked up to local fashion designers and this pushed me to pursue my dream to be a fashion designer. Finally, my dream is becoming a reality.

My collection is inspired from the Maginadara (Sirena). The Magindaras were believed to be beautiful creatures who dwell in the salt waters of Bicol. They are long-haired maidens with with colorful fish tails instead of legs. For my collection, I went for a very feminine and soft approach. Aside from the Magindara, I also took inspiration from the ocean. I used different techniques inspired by corals, scales and waves.

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ALRO, was born on a warm sunny day on the 30th of April, year 1984, in the then sleepy metropolis of Cebu. Exposed to music and the arts at a very young age, he took part in various theater presentations and plays. He took up Hotel and Restaurant Management in the University of the Visayas for 3 years, before deciding to head out in a completely different direction. He left his hometown and went on to have a successful corporate career in Manila. After a few years he decided to take a break from the Monotony of work and focus on rekindling his passion for the Arts.

He flew back home to Cebu, enrolled in FIDA, and the rest as you know it is history.

My collection is based on the persona of the TUMAWO. It is the Philippine equivalent of an elf, primarily located in the Visayas region, and are also known to the locals as “Engkanto�. Their pale alabaster-white skin is one of their most distinguishing features, and their penchant for long white robes. They usually reside near the sea or any body of water. My collection reimagines a Tumawo village in a Millenial driven society

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Jules Randulph Gadingan, a passionate designer from the city of gentle people, Dumaguete City. I am 25 years old, a Business Administration graduate from Silliman University.

Since I was 12, I have always dreamt of becoming a fashion designer. Now I am living the dream of the young boy who used to hide his designs from the world.

My collection meditates on the question on how the Mambabarang came to be. I wanted to explore the various factors that motivate their contempt for other people. Do they do it as a form of retributive justice, or do they simply find pleasure in torturing others. My collection attempts to capture the various spectrums of the Mambabarang. This being or person is a testament that revenge is a bottomless void that can never be satisfied.

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Charmine Jean Uygioco has a degree in Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Major in Finance from Father Saturnino Urios University in Butuan City. In her 24 years, she went through her share of rollercoaster moments, but always held on to the tenacity of life. Being a fashion designer has always been her dream --- she is slowly fulfilling her dream.

After graduation, she plans to put up a shop in her hometown, in Butuan City.

The KINARA is the inspiration for my collection. In local folklore, it is said to be a half human-half bird creature, known for its uncanny ability to love, and eternal devotion to her human lovers. They are also excellent dancers and musicians but only show their talents to the mortals they have fallen in love with. When the KINARA is in love, she goes into a state of unparalleled elation. My collection reflects the joy that a Kinara feels in the way the colors are rendered. I also want to throw in hints of avian elements through meticulous details.

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I am Hannah Mae F. Callano, 20 years old and a Senior High graduate from Butuan City. I flew all the way to Cebu to pursue my dream and passion. I want to continue my family’s dynasty. I am the fourth generation to inherit the talent and love for fashion. Studying at FIDA gave me the confidence and determination to reach my goals. Now,I am living my dream.

The aswang is my topic of inspiration. it is the most feared of all the philippine mythological creatures. it strikes fear in the hearts of many because of its unique ability to shape shift – from beautiful women during the day to vicious ferals at night who lure and ravage their victims to unrecognizable shreds.

I took this fearsome aspect and harnessed it into motivation. part of being fearsome is being fearless, I wanted to use this abstract quality to symbolize my journey in this industry - to face obstacles head on, to not back down. my gothic color palette (red & black) imbues the garments with emboldened charisma – black for power, red for passion. I also incorporated some bondage-like elements to contrast the vintage silhouettes of my garments. I chose to call this collection: “aswang – pretty terrible things” because in the depths of the human psyche, we can’t help but be seduced and mesmerized by danger

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Hailing from the City of gentle people, Dumaguete City, Johanna Mae Aldecoa Tan, was a small town girl with big dreams. After graduating from Silliman University, and passing the Nursing board exam last 2010, she was more than prepared to face the real world head on. Juggling being a hospital volunteer, and a part time call center agent, she made herself an Independent woman. She even started her own motor parts business, and had to learn how to run said business at the same time. When the business fell on hard times, she began to doubt the path she was taking. One day in her shop, she happened to chance upon an old sewing machine and started tinkering with it, and making clothes out of scraps. This went on for a time, and eventually paved her way into pursuing a career in fashion. She and her eldest sister put up an RTW clothing business, armed with purely passion, and little to no formal training. After a nasty dispute with one client, which almost broke her spirit – instead of giving up, she turned this into fuel. Fast forward to 2019, she is slowly making her dreams into a reality, one meticulous stitch at a time.

“SANTELMO: LOST SOULS” is the name of my collection. In traditional folklore, Santelmos are believed to be souls that are seeking for release, and peace, but sometimes could also be looking for retribution. They take the form of floating ethereal bodies of flame, and possess a quite graceful quality. I wanted to Zero in on the element of fire, which corporeally swerve and bend in beautiful shapes and forms. The element of fire is a strong symbol of strength and passion which I also wanted my collection to embody. My garments are the product of science and art, and when they come together, they produce a beautiful symphony. In every artist’s life, passion should be the driving force, the fuel, the “FIRE” that keeps them going

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I am Gretchen Agot, a 22-year old dreamer from Zamboanga. I studied Fashion Design primarily because I feel like the plus-size women are under-represented. I made it my mission to make sure that I cater to clients of all sizes and shapes.

I want to be able to give them that extra boost of confidence.

Fashion in the 21st century should be inclusive, and that a person’s height, weight or social status don’t hinder them from wearing beautiful clothes.

Serving as the main inspiration for my collection, the Sarimanok is a familiar creature of lore. It is a bird that is covered in kaleidoscopic, effervescent feathers, and is also revered by the ancient tribes in Mindanao. My collection is a fusion of the Sarimanok’s prismatic features and tribal elements

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Kimberly Gene Monteza is a 20-year old fashion design aspirant from the southern side of Cebu. As a child, being able to make beautiful clothes was always something she wanted to do.

A Diwata is a FILIPINO mythological creature, also known as fairies in other cultures. They are the protectors of the forest.

They punish anyone who defies the sanctity of nature. My collection embodies the delicate femininity of the DIWATA’s, with a quirky contemporary twist.

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Janine Cristina Rivera-Mendez grew up in a family of businessmen and entrepreneurs (Father’s side) and of artists and craftspeople (Mother’s side). Growing up, her hobbies involved dancing, singing and crafts. She always wanted to take Fashion Design as her course in college but was required by her parents and grandparents to take a business course first. She took a 4-year Business Administration Major in Entrepreneurship course at the University of San Carlos and worked for the family business. She married her college sweetheart, Robert Mendez, on May 1, 2017. On September 2018, 5 years after working for the family, she finally enrolled in FIDA. My inspiration is the Manaul, a Mythical King sent by Bathala that turned into an omen bird. It is a tropical bird type called the Asian Fairy Blue bird with colors brown, blue and black which I am using as my color palette for my collection. My aesthetic is Resort Luxury – bold pairings of solid color on simple designs. Like a bird, my fabrics are soft, flowy, sheer and lightweight.

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The Siyokoy is a creature of legendary proportions. Almost every culture has their own version. These denizens of the deep are predominantly covered in scaly armor. My clothes showcase a lot of geometric details that try to mimic the scales of the Siyokoys. The silhouettes are ambiguous and androgynous, which is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

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Photograhy: Jon Unson Styling by Edward James Castro Hair and Make-up Rhino Deiparine All Models: Models of Association of Cebu

Odessa Ortiz-Chan, a wife and mother, is pursuing Fashion Design at a later stage. She might be considered a latecomer in the fashion industry but she is confident that it is never too late to follow your dream.

VIVOREE ESCLITO This young emerging artist has been wow many as she reaches for her dreams as a role model and as an artist. We sit down with her on a one on one chat.

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155 Jacket & Pants: Raf Garcia

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Clothes: Goodgang__

VIVOREE ESCLITO Vivoree is one of the beautiful faces today, this morena beauty captures many with her inspiring transformation story inside the Pinoy Big Brother house. This young emerging artist has been wow many as she reaches for her dreams as a role model and as an artist. We sit down with her on a one on one chat.

Cite 5 things people don’t know about you.

I don’t like spiders I love collectings books, I’m a book lover by heart Sometimes when I’m bored at any time of the day, I usually write random lyrics I use to paint, but now, not anymore because of my schedule I love arts Was acting something you always wanted to do?

No, the first thing I really wanted when I started showbiz was performing, most specifically singing and dancing, And that’s I really wanted to do which I’m passionate about. The acting was a choice for me when I join the workshop and it develops in the long run and make me realize that I loved acting and It challenges me every day to do better.

Aside from acting and singing what else do you interest in?

Hmmm… well, aside from acting and singing, of course, dancing, before I do love sports but now I’m not active anymore. I’m interested in Arts aswell.

What’s life like for you before PBB? Before PBB, my life is so simple, my everyday life was just going to school, spending weekends hanging out with friends and family, helping my mother in household chores and on Sunday we go to church and then sometimes we go to the mall if we have enough money. It was normal simple life in Bohol it is quite and peaceful a very provincial feel and sometimes we travel an hour just to get to the city.

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How has the show changed you?

So much has changed! When I was in PBB it helped me a lot! It helped me grow and mature and transform me to be better. There’s was negative and positive getting into showbiz. Negative, when people judge you the way you talk and how the way I look.

Positive, I help my family, and able I use my platform to inspire other people and to show my talents and pursuing what I really love to do.

I wish I could change nothing and live my life as I lived right now.

What are the most memorable moments inside PBB? “Super dami!” But the number one memorable moments for me was my transformation, It really changed me the way I view life, the way I think coz before I really have low self- esteem and sometimes I feel low on myself, that’s one reason people will look down on me and I realize that everything starts with myself.

What’s the craziest thing a fan has done to get your attention?

The craziest thing a fan has done to get my attention, hmmm, well not really that crazy but a weird thing, coz there is one fan texted my mom just to say that he is one of my fans, and it’s really weird how did he get my mom’s personal number, so its kinda effected to get my attention.

If you are giving a chance to go back 10 years ago, what moment do you want to change?

Nothing. I wish I could change nothing and live my life as I lived right now. It’s like a domino effect, You make those decisions when you did not know what would be its impact in the future, so I will not change anything even those mistakes I did in the past, because that mistakes make me a better person now.

What are your goals for 2020?

2020! I have so many goals! Hopefully, I will finish senior high so that I don’t have school priorities anymore and to more focus on my career and be more productive.

What’s NEXT for Vivoree?

I don’t know, I don’t expect a lot. Hoping I do a lot of projects, series, and movies. Hopefully, we can buy our own house na!

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Clothes: Shasha Sto. Tomas

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Clothes: Shasha Sto. Tomas

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Clothes: Goodgang__

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Photography: Stephen Capuchino using Tamron Philippines Lenses and Phottix Philippines Equipment Make up: Janell Capuchino Hair: Mycke Arcano (@wieldcreatives) using Lynelle Hair Art Direction: Jobo Nacpil Stylist: Cath Sobrevega Kristine Landingin Kamille David Special thanks to: Star Magic Capt. Luz Bagalacsa Tamron PH Phottix PH Sela Gonzales Queen Vinluan

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