The ARTEFINO Fair 2024, scheduled from August 22-25, is set to expand the dialogue on the Philippines’ rich culture of craft. This year’s theme, KaPAMANA, embraces the idea of heritage while introducing new voices and perspectives into the conversation. This expansion of the concept of pamana (heritage) seeks to balance tradition with contemporary expressions, creating a vibrant tapestry of Filipino culture that is both timeless and modern.
Since its inception in 2017 by founders Maritess Pineda, Mita Rufino, Cedie Lopez-Vargas, Susie Quiros, and Marimel Francisco, ARTEFINO has been more than just a fair. It has become a movement dedicated to showcasing homegrown brands and products that revitalize and preserve the time-honored traditions of Philippine craft. The fair places cultural values, sustainability, and livelihood empowerment at its core, aiming to elevate the ‘Made in the Philippines’ mark to new heights.
In 2018, ARTEFINO emphasized heritage through its PAMANA theme, which focused on generational stories within families, weaving together culture, craft, and artistry. This initiative was a celebration of the Filipino spirit and a reminder of the importance of passing down cultural traditions.
KaPAMANA in 2024 marks a significant evolution in ARTEFINO’s journey. “This year, we are expanding the concept of PAMANA, and asking ourselves: Where do we take this conversation? How do we build on what we had started? What is it that we want to hand down?” reflects Cedie Lopez-Vargas. The theme encourages ARTEFINO’s community to explore innovative approaches to heritage, urging partner brands, social entrepreneurs, and designers to think outside the box.
As part of the campaign, ARTEFINO brought together brands and muses for a photoshoot that captured shared stories of heritage and legacy. The campaign, photographed by fashion icon Jo Ann Bitagcol, paired accomplished personalities with brands that embody similar values. This creative collaboration highlighted the idea that heritage is not just about preserving the past but also about reimagining it for the present and future.
Taking place at The Fifth at Rockwell, the four-day fair will feature 100 heritage brands and products. The founders of ARTEFINO are committed to bringing fresh and innovative experiences to fairgoers each year. This year’s theme, KaPAMANA, serves as a call to action, challenging brands and communities to push the boundaries of tradition while staying true to their roots.
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The fair will feature new and returning brands, as well as social entrepreneurs and designers, adding depth to the KaPAMANA narrative. A larger space will merge ArteFino Finds and Barracks, showcasing fluid and innovative design propositions. A dedicated area will also celebrate heritage crafts and brands, offering visitors a rich exploration of Filipino artistry.
At the heart of the fair, the central display area will feature an installation by renowned artist Leeroy New. His Sacred Heart figures, first introduced in collaboration with Rags2Riches, will set the tone for this year’s event, bringing fresh perspectives and a new creative language to the forefront. New’s work, deeply rooted in sustainability, aligns with ARTEFINO’s mission to spark meaningful conversations about craft, culture, and responsible retailing.
HeArteFino, the advocacy arm of the ARTEFINO movement, continues its mission to support specific communities and crafts around the Philippines. This year, HeArteFino will showcase a limited edition collection by artist Patty Eustaquio in collaboration with Bayo Atelier. The collection is a testament to the possibilities that unfold when art, fashion, and sustainability converge.
Eustaquio’s designs, characterized by easy silhouettes and multifunctional pieces, are created with zero-waste practices in mind. The collaboration not only highlights the importance of circular fashion but also integrates the communities supported by Bayo Atelier into the design process. Each piece, made with natural fabrics and biodegradable ink, features Eustaquio’s signature, making it a true work of art.
Photos courtesy of ArteFino
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