"I've always reiterated that every day should always be Women's Day, not just one day in the year. We aim to continue supporting women, recognizing their rights and issues, and hopefully, doing our humble bit in taking part to build a better world," said SM Supermalls president Steven Tan.

Words Francine Y. Medina
April 25, 2024

March came with numerous art shows celebrating women as artists and muses—in celebration of International Women’s Month. SM Supermalls, consistent in its advocacy for diversity and inclusivity, is a leader in promoting causes for women.

On March 8, SM Aura hosted a conference of the National Commission on Women, UN Women, and United Nations Philippines. The day-long event gathered women leaders who discussed the future, the gender dimensions of artificial intelligence, and the importance of investing on women.

The rest of the month had SM Supermalls providing space for women-themed bazaars, retail offerings and dining treats, and two major art exhibitions that honored the complexities and strengths of being a woman.

The exhibits focused on women artists underrepresented in institutions and museums. The fact that out of 81 National Artists, only 15 are women, is a case in point.

“Arts and culture have an important place in our lives as Filipinos. It’s an important form of self-expression. The two women’s art exhibits in celebration of Women’s Month are part of our mission of inclusivity and a safe space for everyone. Besides women, we have also supported other sectors like children, the elderly, and people with disabilities. SM Supermalls aims to take part in spreading awareness of their needs and issues through our list of services, events, and opportunities for entrepreneurship,” SM Supermalls president Steven Tan told Art+ Magazine.

“I’ve always reiterated that every day should always be Women’s Day, not just one day in the year. We aim to continue supporting women, recognizing their rights and issues, and hopefully, doing our humble bit in taking part to build a better world.”

COMMON VISION
The universal experiences and aspirations of women is at the heart of #Women2024: Empower Her Palette, which opened on March 23 at Level 2 Atrium of SM Podium. Organized by the Embassy of France in partnership with SPARK! Philippines, the show highlighted the works of 20 Filipino and French women artists.

On hand for the opening ceremony were Senator Grace Poe, French Ambassador Marie Fontanel, SM Supermalls president Steven Tan, SPARK! Philippines executive director Maica Teves, and curator and artist Kim Lim.

Teves said, “By showcasing works from both Filipino and French women artists, the event has the potential to bridge cultural divides. Shared experiences of resilience, healing, and emotional resonance depicted through art can foster greater empathy and appreciation for diverse perspectives, leading to a more connected and understanding global community.”

“At its heart, the exhibition is a powerful showcase of women’s creativity, resilience, and their vast potential. It is our hope that the works on display by Filipino and French women artists will spark conversation and action around the journey of all women towards equality and empowerment,” said Tan.

BREAKING BARRIERS AT ‘SINING FILIPINA’
The artistry and inspiring narrative of Filipino women was the driving force of the debut of Sining Filipina, a nationwide art competition for women.

A total of 732 entries were sent from various regions in the country.

Organizers SM Supermalls, BDO Unibank, Inc., and the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs (ZCME), announced the winners at the awarding ceremony and exhibition opening at SM Aura on March 23.

Present were guests of honor US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson, British Ambassador Laure Beaufils, Singapore Ambassador Constance See, Embassy of Denmark’s Madame Eva Fischer-Mellbin, Embassy of Nigeria Counsellor/Head of Chancery Charity Ekeadon Davidson, together with SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation president Elizabeth Sy and SM Foundation executive director Debbie Sy.

Declared winners were two province-based artists, both with no formal training in the visual arts.

Hanna Joy Sayam from Negros Occidental with her entry, “Pira-pirasong Tela ng mga Marias,” and Maria

Gemma San Jose from Ilocos Norte with her piece, “Layers of Experience,” won in the Figurative and Non-Figurative Categories respectively. Each of them brought home P250,000.

Other winners in the Figurative category were Luckyshia Jenielou Canonigo (2nd place) and Ma. Christina Baltero (3rd place).

In the Non-Figurative category, Maria Melissa Sangoyo won 2nd place, and Isabelita Rodillo, 3rd place.

The 2nd placers got 150,000 each, while the 3rd placers were given 100,000 each.

All winners also received a Sining Filipina trophy by sculptor and Zonta member Charming Baldemor.

The panel of judges was composed of Metropolitan Museum of Manila president Tina Colayco, Ayala Museum senior curator and head of conservation Kenneth Esguerra, Ateneo Art Gallery director and chief curator Victoria Herrera, and accomplished artists Mark Justiniani and Julie Lluch.

Proceeds from the sale of the artworks will go to the artists and ZCME’s charitable programs.