Arca’s Yard Gallery, A Fund Raiser

A few steps away from Arca’s Yard Cafe is the Arca’s Yard Gallery. Their exhibit when we went there was a fund raiser for Mr. Rey Tam, a local artist.

The gallery featured works by Japanese artist, Asao Shimura who specializes in creating fabrics made from paper. These fabrics are called “SHIFU”. Asao Shimura has been living in the Philippines since 1989.

Pictured above is a screen used for paper-making.

Asao Shimura also conducts workshops on “Nikawa-e” which is the art of painting with animal glue. Being a chemist, he strives to use natural materials in his works as pigment such as pearls for white, charcoal for black, berries for red, and sand for yellow.

Another painting technique taught by Asao Shimura is “Konjac”, the use of konjac ink which is a gellatinous substance acting as an alternative paint medium.

Another artist featured was Leo R. Natividad specializing in origami and functional paper crafts. He created this lovely paper crane installation hanging from the ceiling.

Among the many other artists who have participated in this exhibit is Ed Casiquin known for his sketch works.

Photographs and illustrations using ballpoint pen.

Arca’s Yard Gallery also sells handmade knick-knacks such as dream catchers, stamped prints, tote bags, keychains and candle holders.

There are more upcoming workshops by Asao Shimura this February perfect for Valentine Season! There will be Rice Straw Handmade papermaking workshop on February 13 for PHP1,200 (with lunch c/o Arca’s Yard Cafe) from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. There will also be Paper Thread-making workshop for paper textile on February 14 for PHP1,200 (with lunch c/o Arca’s Yard Cafe) from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Have fun!