The Philippines exposes the talent of local artists

As part of the Philippine Consulate General’s efforts in Vancouver to showcase the talent of local artists and share Filipino traditions and culture through the artssuccessfully hosted the inauguration of the “Edgardo Lantin Art Exhibition” in the Consulate lobby on July 15.

Edgardo Lantin is a multi-award winning contemporary realist artist, known primarily for his portraits and landscapes. He was born in the Philippines in 1953 and graduated in Fine Arts from the University of Santo Tomas. He worked as a graphic artist upon immigrating to Canada in 1981.

He pursued his passion for portraiture by attending private art classes with an accomplished and renowned Filipino artist, the late Sym Mendoza. He also studied at the Art Student League of New York on a full-year scholarship.

Lantin’s first major commission was a portrait of former Philippine President Corazon Aquino in 1989, which is on display at the Malacañang Palace Museum. Likewise, she subsequently painted the 15th President of the Philippines, Benigno Aquino III, commissioned by the Malacanang Palace.

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Consul General Maria Andrelita Austria, in her speech, conveyed her gratitude to Edgardo Lantin. She emphasized that his dedication, discipline and attention to the smallest details contribute to the excellence of his artwork.

A production entitled “Buto-Buto: Bones are Seeds” was also presented to members of the media and guests at the event. This is a community-driven theatrical performance based on stories and poetry from Vancouver’s Filipino-Canadian community that will be presented at Russian Hall July 27-31.

The project is carried out in collaboration with the National Pilipino Canadian Cultural Center (NPC3) and the Southeast Asian Cultural Heritage Society (SEACHS), with the special participation of Anyone Can Act Theater (ACAT).