It's the typical Pinoy weekend, and you've run out of things to do. When going to the mall, partying at a club, or rocking it out at an opm gig has seem to have lost its flavor, celebrating at the foot of a mountain will win you worlds over. It's a party that gathers the country's most creative talents. Set to take on the island of Mindoro on March 2-4, the Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival is bound to revolutionize the way you experience a Pinoy weekend. This  Avatar meets Woodstock meets the contemporary art scene of a celebration is destined to satiate your senses, generously--so go order this ultimate culture salad, before tickets run out!

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The Malasimbo Festival features not a few, but a total of 18 visual artists to complement the natural scenery--a fusion of man's creation juxtaposed with that of the universal designer's! 

You won't go wrong with the artistic powerhouse that is: Gus Albor, Agnes Arellano, Billy Bonnevie, Karla Cachola, Olivia D' Aboville, Kawayan De Guia, IC Jaucian, Niccolo Jose, Dondi Katigbak, Grace Katigbak, Denis Lagdameo, Doring Lalongisip, Nikki Luna, Leeroy New, Goldie Poblador, Alwin Reamillo, Risa Recio, and lastly, Mikai Rodrigo…phew!--so if you're the art aficionado, get your fix at Malasimbo!

With the amount of passion and dedication that these serious artists pour into their work, wouldn't it be a cheap shot to call them hipsters? Take a peek into the Malasimbo artists' world: It's nothing short of a nature-trip!

1) Gus Albor


His works which display a concern for combining and contrasting human-made materials with those from nature will be rightfully placed at the foot of the mountain.

2) Billy Bonnevie

 

This drumming, dancing shaman won't have problems installing his work at the Malasimbo: Due to having spent a decade working with the Mangyans, there's no doubt he knows his space at Mindoro. 

3) Olivia d'Aboville


From plastic spoons to pins and water bottles: Olivia manipulates and recycles her unconventional media by transforming the ordinary mass-produced objects into something new and beautiful. What were once reminders of our wasteful, environment-polluting society now take on organic forms. The artist who is fascinated by the underwater world, tries to raise awareness on the importance of preserving our seas and its biodiversity.

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4) Niccolo Jose 


If Captain Planet were an artist, he'd be named Niccolo Jose: This earth-warrior who double-majored in Environmental Science and Studio Art is currently a consultant for both Green Canyon Leisure Farms, and an up-and-coming eco-tourist (art) resort in Pampanga. 

5) Grace Katigbak 

I couldn't find a picture of Grace, but I think this one says a thousand words.

You're never too young to hug trees; This old soul wrote her first poem at the age of 12: it begins…"How like the tiny blade of grass my young love for you is…" Grace, who is passionate about life, uses LOVE as a recurring theme in her art:  from romantic love, to love for God, dance, and yoga--there's no calling this epitome of hippie,  a poser.

6) Doring Lalongisip 


As a true son of the Mindoro island, Doring's senses have grown to be in tune with the natural forces. His sculptural creations are a product of his passion for wood, which stems from his intuitive sensibility for nature's medium. Be observant: the festival is full of his hidden creatures!

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7) Goldie Poblador 


This painter, glass sculptor, installation artist and universe appreciator explores the layered relationships between ecology, spirituality, and the feminine. How's that for well-rounded?


A Malasimbo artist adheres to the environmental theme of the event by creating a site specific artwork made especially for the mountain. A common interest among the exhibitors would be the Mangyan culture or the wonders of the natural world. According to one artist (though exhibiting in a place without the usual comforts of a museum or gallery is challenging), the biggest advantage is the natural beauty of the exhibition space. 

Malasimbo artist Goldie Poblador lets us in on this celebratory festival, her experience as an exhibitor, and what that certain kind of magic feels when you stop and smell the flowers.

JUICE.PH: How important or special is Malasimbo to the artists?

GOLDIE POBLADOR: The unique interaction with nature makes it really special. Last year, I stayed and worked with 3 other artists for one week before the festival; that experience got us immersed in the Mangyan culture--it changed my views on life. Being in such a beautiful place like Mindoro will make you realize that our country does have great potential.

JUICE.PH: Why is the Malsaimbo show special? What sets it apart from the gallery scene? Do you favor one space over the other?

GOLDIE POBLADOR: Artists can use a break from the typical art scene situated in the heart of the city. As a Malasimbo artist, you're forced to create something fresh; it can be a challenge: breaking from your usual studio routine in order to be in touch with the environment.


No walls, just the mountains: Due to the nature of the space, three-dimensional works are preferred. The exhibit is outdoors; that itself lends a certain magic. 

I can't say I favor one space over the other; but one thing's for sure: I definitely can't say "no" when the Malasimbo Festival invites me. The creative process that I go through plus the installation itself is so unique; it's a joy to come home feeling more in tune with the universe.

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