Activity Reports

ASEAN-Japan Centre co-hosted the event of Finopinas: The Finest of Philippine Art and Design

2024/10/28

Fostering Creative Synergy: Co-creation in Art and Design Between the Philippines and Japan

The ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC), in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry of the Philippines (DTI), co-hosted “Finopinas: The Finest of Philippine Art and Design” exhibition on September 3-13, 2024, at the Tokyo Midtown Design Hub. This special event featured a diverse exhibition of Filipino sustainable products from around 11 exhibitors and artists, particularly in sustainable fashion, home décor, accessories, and contemporary visual art, with an aim to introduce Filipino craftmanship to the Japanese market and create new business opportunities. In addition, the exhibitors participated in the 98^th Tokyo International Gift Show Autumn 2024 to connect with potential Japanese buyers and industry experts.

The event is a testament to the growing partnership and creative synergy between the Philippines and Japan, particularly in the areas of sustainability and innovation. In his message at the opening ceremony, the Secretary-General of AJC, Dr. Kunihiko Hirabayashi, also underscored the profound connection between both cultures, saying that “The spirit of Bayanihan, the Filipino concept of communal unity, find a kindred soul in the Japanese principle of Wa, which embodies harmony collective strength. These values are more than words, they are the very fabric of our societies, woven through generations, shaping our identities, and guiding our futures”

Products showcased at the “Finopinas: The Finest of Philippine Art and Design”
exhibition at Tokyo Midtown Design Hub, 3 to 13 September 2024

A series of seminars featuring speakers on the creative industry and sustainable development were also held during the special exhibition, including

“Seminar on the Evolution of Philippine and Japanese Contemporary Art and Prospects for Collaboration” (September 5, 2024), focusing on shared art history and collaboration prospects between the Philippines and Japan. One of the core themes of this seminar was the importance of technology in improving design quality. Collaboration with Japanese suppliers, like STYLEM Takisada-Osaka Co.,Ltd., helped Filipino designers to integrate their indigenous fibers such as pineapple or banana with high-quality, traceable fabrics from Japan, merging their traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology.

Mr. Eichi Matsuhashi, Director of the Karuizawa New Art Museum, showing the art of Contemporary Filipino Artist, Ronald Ventura, to portray the interconnectedness of Japan and Filipino cultures through art.

Showcasing the works which was born out of the partnership with Japan designers and suppliers, merging traditional Filipino craftmanship with modern technology.

Japan’s technological expertise and commitment to sustainability have opened new avenues for Filipino designers, particularly in producing high-quality, functional products. As Ms. Camille of Shelmed Cottage Treasure pointed out, Japanese consumers value minimalist, eco-friendly designs, and they expect products to be ethically sourced. This demand not only drives Filipino creativity but also aligns with the global shift towards sustainable, ethically-produced goods.

The collaboration between the Philippines and Japan also highlighted a celebration of diversity. Filipino artists and designers brought to life a unique “celebration of life in all its diversity” through their work, inspiring Japanese audiences with new perspectives and unseen worlds.

This exchange of ideas fostered an environment of creativity and mutual growth, with both nations learning from each other’s artistic traditions. The event showcased how creativity can bridge cultural divides and open up possibilities for future collaborations.

“Seminar on Philippine-Japanese Collaboration on Sustainable Interior Products for Community Development” (September 11, 2024), emphasizing the role of sustainable design in community development. Prof. Shinichi ITO, Dean of College and Graduate School of Art and Design, Musashino University, underscored the potential for the Philippines – Japan collaboration in promoting sustainable design practices, with the introduction of his craft development project implemented successfully in Sorsogon, the Philippines, namely Kalikasan Sorsogon. This project aims to inspire passion for production in developing countries, raise interest in indigenous materials and contribute to the capacity building of Philippine artisans.

Key takeaways:

“Finopinas” successfully enhanced cultural and commercial ties between the Philippines and Japan, while laying the groundwork for further collaboration in art and design.

Filipino exhibitors can engage with more than 100 industry professionals during this special, leading to discussions on potential business partnerships between two nations in the future.

Moving forward, there is a need for more innovative platforms and spaces to showcase Filipino products and services in the creative industries to Japanese buyers.

Way forward:

Building on the event’s success, ASEAN-Japan Centre will contribute to promoting Philippines’ products in the Japanese market in a sustainable manner by (1) Expanding digital engagement for export-ready Filipino products on online platforms; (2) Facilitating further market access for Filipino artisans by supporting their participation in trade shows and design workshops; (3) Fostering collaborative networks with Japanese designers, suppliers, and industry leaders, ensuring ongoing opportunities for sustainable product development and artistic exchange.