The Art House and Ateneo Art Gallery Launch the Fernando Zóbel Centennial Collection

A locally crafted line of novelty items celebrates Fernando Zóbel’s lasting legacy in Filipino contemporary art.

Words Felicity Anne Castor
Photo courtesy of The Art House and Ateneo Art Gallery
May 23, 2025

On May 5, The Art House and the Ateneo Art Gallery unveiled the Fernando Zóbel Centennial Collection—a curated line of locally made novelty items inspired by the artist’s sketches. The collection pays tribute to Zóbel’s significant influence on modern Philippine art.

Zóbel’s generous donation of his works to the Ateneo Art Gallery in the 1960s laid the groundwork for what would become one of the country’s most important collections of modern art. In a collaborative effort to celebrate this legacy, The Art House—a creative multi-channel platform—partnered with the museum to showcase Filipino artistry and engage local communities.

A Heartfelt Tribute to Filipino Art

The Fernando Zóbel Centennial Collection features travel sketches from Zóbel’s journeys through Northern Philippines, particularly the Ilocos region. Among the works included are Batac Funeral, Glan Soldier, Cabugao, Paoay Church, Sta. Lucia, and Dr. Buenaventura. These pieces not only reflect Zóbel’s artistic sensibilities, but also highlight his passion for documenting and advancing Philippine art and culture through early academic publication and research.

Honoring Legacy Through Design

The merchandise line includes finely crafted catch trays, coasters, placemats, and laptop stands, each featuring Zóbel’s distinctive sketches. “We wanted a compact collection that would echo Zóbel’s modern aesthetic,” shared Carlo Pineda, founder of The Art House.

Locally produced and rooted in Filipino craftsmanship, the collection emphasizes both quality and cultural integrity. Great care was taken to uphold proper attribution and intellectual property rights, honoring Zóbel not just in art, but in principle.

Expanding Filipino Creative Expression

Beyond celebrating Zóbel’s legacy, the Centennial Collection serves as a platform for showcasing the ingenuity of Filipino artisans. “We are looking to expand the portfolio with a clear vision of involving local communities—whether they be Filipino makers, schools, or neighborhoods,” Pineda added.

Through this collection, The Art House and Ateneo Art Gallery reaffirm their commitment to cultural preservation, creative collaboration, and inclusive artistry.