Art Gallery by The Manila Hotel Flourishes with Manuel Baldemor's ‘Flowers of May’

The Art Gallery by The Manila Hotel proudly presents Flowers of May, a vibrant and uplifting exhibition by acclaimed Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor. The exhibit pays homage to the beloved Flores de Mayo festival, a time-honored celebration of beauty, devotion, and renewal.

Following the contemplative tone of his recent Kuwaresma series, Baldemor now shifts to a more joyful expression of spirit and color. In Flowers of May, Baldemor breathes life into the season’s blooms through his distinctive visual style, capturing the richness of Philippine flora, serving as both subject and metaphor.

Flowers of May

Flowers of May at the Art Gallery by The Manila Hotel

“One can achieve tranquility by recognizing themselves as part of nature and finding their core or soul. Flowers are a perfect example as they represent peace and love. They have their own language of diplomacy that speaks straight to our hearts,” shared Baldemor.

The exhibit invites guests to experience joy and serenity, reflecting the essence of Flores de Mayo. Through this collection, Baldemor offers a visual journey that connects viewers to both cultural heritage and the quiet beauty of the natural world.

Flores de Mayo is on display at the Art Gallery until May 31, 2025. Admission is free. For interested buyers, email r.lo@themanilahotel.com.

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Manuel Baldemor’s Kuwaresma Opens at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery

The Manila Hotel held the opening reception for Kuwaresma, a solo exhibit by acclaimed Filipino painter, sculptor, writer, and book illustrator Manuel Baldemor, on 13 April 2025, Palm Sunday, at the hotel’s Art Gallery. Kuwaresma presents a contemplative visual journey through the sacred season of Lent.

Manuel Baldemor, known for his signature distinctive fusion of folk art, religious imagery, and cultural narratives, explores the solemnity and symbolism of Holy Week in this 38-piece collection. Kuwaresma, which means Lent in Spanish, captures the spirit of the 40-day period of prayer, fasting, abstinence, and reflection—echoing Christ’s retreat in the desert.

The exhibit highlights Baldemor’s vibrant palette, intricate detailing, and deeply symbolic compositions that bring Filipino religious rituals and traditions vividly to life.

“As a painter and sculptor, I want to capture the essence of Filipino life and traditions, especially Holy Week,” shared Baldemor. “Kuwaresma is a culmination of my fascination with Lenten folk rituals, particularly the Nazareno procession, whose devotion continues to humble and inspire me.”

Manuel Baldemor

Among the distinguished guests who attended the exhibit opening were Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., president of The Manila Hotel; Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel; Dr. Elba S. Cruz, exhibit curator; Virgilio Almario, also known as Rio Alma, national artist of the Philippines; and Cecile Guidote-Alvarez, founder of the Philippine Educational Theatre Association (PETA).

Atty. Joey Lina, President of The Manila Hotel

Kuwaresma is on display at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery until April 30, 2025. Admission is free. For interested buyers, email r.lo@themanilahotel.com.

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