The Rotary Club of Makati recently launched “UGNAY,” a fundraising art exhibit that explores Filipino identity through memory, abstraction, and civic engagement.
The exhibit ran at The Peninsula Manila this July and featured installations across the Upper Lobby, Escolta Corridor, Rubio Art Studio, and a special one-day showcase at the Rigodon Ballroom Foyer.
Headlining the exhibit was renowned painter Dominic Rubio, celebrated for his signature elongated figures in colonial-era attire, set against romanticized Old Manila or countryside scenes.
Born in Paete, Laguna, Rubio studied Commercial Arts at the University of Santo Tomas College of Fine Arts before leaving advertising to pursue painting full-time. His works have graced prestigious platforms such as Sotheby’s and Christie’s, and include major commissions like The Great Promenade of Philippine-American Friendship mural at the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C.
“Dominic’s work captures the essence of Filipino culture,” said art patron Rosita Lara Lumagui, managing director of Worldwide Resource Solutions Philippines and one of the exhibit’s guests of honor. “It reflects traditions from the past while incorporating modern elements — all while maintaining a nostalgic flair.”
Celebration of Diverse Artistic Voices
Joining Rubio were three contemporary artists Aaron Virata Mempin, Jean Uy Yam, and Anton Cabrera, whose distinct styles expanded the exhibit’s narrative.
Mempin, known professionally as A, presented minimalist geometric abstractions inspired by coastal landscapes. A longtime Rotary member, Mempin integrates advocacy into his art, supporting environmental and community initiatives through exhibitions.
Uy Yam, a lawyer and mother of two, showcased a blend of realism and abstraction using vibrant colors. Her works, which began gaining public attention during the pandemic, have supported nonprofits such as Caritas Manila and AHA Learning Center.
Cabrera offered introspective, textured paintings with subdued tones, inviting viewers to engage in open interpretation.
“Each artist brings a unique perspective,” Lumagui noted. “Aaron’s work is structured and meditative, Anton’s is intuitive and reflective, and Jean’s is radiant and deeply human. Together, they create a balanced and compelling dialogue.”
Art as Civic Engagement
Mempin acknowledged Atty. Howie Calleja during the exhibit’s opening on July 9 for spearheading the initiative and praised Rubio’s collaborative spirit.
“Ugnay isn’t just about art – it’s about connection,” Mempin said. “Creativity and collaboration can make a lasting impact, not just among artists, but in the lives of those we serve.”
The exhibit marked RCM’s first major event for the 2025–2026 term, positioning art as a powerful medium for cultural reflection and public service. Proceeds from the exhibit will benefit its community service initiatives.
The unveiling ceremony brought together a distinguished group of guests, including Lumagui, COMELEC Commissioner Ferdinand Maceda Jr., Rotary Club of Makati President Eduardo H. Galvez, Supreme Court Justice Midas Marquez, Rotary District 3830 Governor Reginald Alberto Nolido, past Governor Maria Concepcion Camacho, and Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines Abdul Malik Castelino.
For inquiries, visit The Peninsula Manila concierge or email [email protected].
