Manila FAME opens its doors once again at the World Trade Centre Metro Manila in Pasay City from 17 to 19 October 2024.
Following the theme ReimagiNATION, close to 400 original designs—a collaboration between select Manila FAME exhibitors and renowned product development specialists—will be exclusively launched across different pavilions at the three-day sourcing show.
Design Commune, a curated showcase, will be presented in two pavilions in the home and lighting sector and will be curated by Rita Nazareno and Gabby Lichauco.
“There will be playful, imaginative and inventive pieces so we hope that the people can come and enjoy the craftsmanship and design of the different manufacturers from all over the Philippines,” enthuses Nazareno.
“It’s always easy to collaborate with Gabby. You can tell through the products that there is a sense of joy in what we do that we share with the communities as well.”
A seasoned designer and no stranger to Manila FAME, Maco Custodio will work with 15 local enterprises in another setting of Design Commune focused on fashion. Situated in the fashion hall, the pavilion will explore parametricism or creating design based on existing organic structures.
Custodio will take inspiration from topography, plants and their patterns and biomimicry or strategies of designs from nature, he explains.
“I want to challenge the exhibitors to be curious and conscious,” he says. He will work hand in hand with local fashion brands by learning their design processes and crafting a story with their pieces. “Narratives give products a different dimension—it creates value.”
Custodio will create 90 prototypes with the homegrown brands.
The Artisans Village will be curated by PJ Arañador. It will follow the theme Uri, which translates to type or category. The setting will highlight the rich culture from the provinces and their distinct raw materials, traditional patterns and skilful manipulation, he says.
“It is important to promote our crafts, our stories and our imaginations,” Arañador explains. “This collection is a way of translating traditional concepts for the modern audience.”
The products will take inspiration from the indigenous script baybayin, local weaves and materials such as wearables, accessories, furniture and furnishings, lighting and gifts.
“Our culture is unique, our heritage from our grassroots villages and Filipino artisans proudly sustain this through their appreciation and promotion to the world.”
Arañador will curate four pavilions in the Artisans Village including assistance in product development, capacity building and visual merchandising.
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