Unveiling the Twisted Truth: Mari Zhar's Art Will Shatter Your Perception of Reality!

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Prepare to be moved, for Mari Zhar's artworks, "Distorted Versions of Deeper Truth," part of the Ready. Get Grit. exhibition with several artworks from various artists on display from July 19 to 31, 2025, at the Nami Art Gallery in White Plains, Quezon City, is a profound journey into the human spirit. Zhar, a Modern Abstract Expressionist with a sculptural integration, challenges us to confront the beautiful chaos within ourselves and the world.

The Canvas Unveiled: A Revolution of Form and Feeling

Zhar's signature style immediately captivates. Her canvases, far from traditional flat surfaces, are sculpted and folded, becoming three-dimensional landscapes of emotion. Each crease and crumple is not a flaw but a deliberate mark, embodying the passage of time, the weight of memory, and the resilience of the human spirit. This revolutionary approach allows the viewer to experience the artwork not just visually, but almost tactilely, inviting a deeper, more intimate connection.

"What Remains, Remakes Her": A Testament to Triumph

In "What Remains, Remakes Her," Zhar presents a powerful narrative of rebirth. The muted mauves, deep umbers, and bruised blues of the piece echo heartbreak, yet the sudden flashes of green and yellow symbolize forgiveness—a daring bloom through grief. As the artist states, "No longer masked. No longer performing. Only essence remains—faith, softness, truth. She doesn't rise in triumph. She rises in truth. And in that truth, she is remade." This piece is a meditation on stillness and surrender, revealing that even when torn, one can be reformed and remade.

"Loud Light, Quiet Love": The Echoes of Departure

"Loud Light, Quiet Love" plunges us into the poignant moment before a goodbye. Red, violet, and flame-orange hues dominate, evoking the "loud light" of conversations and shared moments that now blur into a haze. The crumpled texture of the canvas itself tells a story of memory, refusing to flatten the emotional weight of a fading connection. "This isn't a love story. Or maybe it is. Just not the kind that ends with forever," the artist's statement reads, hinting at the bittersweet nature of preserved memories.

"Wrinkled But Whole": The Quiet Celebration of Solitude

"Wrinkled But Whole" offers a serene counterpoint, celebrating the quiet strength found in solitude. Greens and reds glow through the canvas, reminiscent of light glimpsed through a window. The piece speaks of finding oneself amidst memories and color, and the resilience of a spirit that, though wrinkled by life's experiences, remains whole. "The wrinkles in the structure are not flaws. They are marks of living. Creates where stories pressed themselves into skin. Where paint bends, new truths emerge." It's a testament to the idea that being alone isn't emptiness, but a presence deepened and magnified.

"That Day I Didn't Say Goodbye": The Weight of Unspoken Words

In "That Day I Didn't Say Goodbye," Zhar captures the profound emotional weight of words left unsaid. The folds of the canvas, draped in color, hide a quiet chaos. It's not a painting of farewell but a portrait of a moment—a last glance that lingers. "Each wrinkle holds a breath that never became words. Each curve echoes the ache of almost," the description reveals, allowing the viewer to feel the lingering presence of what remains unspoken.

"When We Were Almost I & II": A Delicate Dance of Fate

This diptych, "When We Were Almost I & II," reflects the delicate space between fate and free will. The sculptural paintings capture the ache of connections that were almost—a glance too brief, a brush of souls that left behind a lingering sense of something more. The figures stretch toward each other, never quite touching, embodying the questions we carry when moments slip away. It's a poignant reminder: "What is meant for us may delay, but it never forgets the way back."

Mari Zhar: A Creative Heart That Heals

Mari Zhar's personal journey is intrinsically woven into her art. As a Fine Arts graduate, she inherited her mother's artistic genius, finding solace and expression in creativity from an early age. Her creative path has taken her across continents, drawing inspiration from textures, faces, shadows, and silence. Zhar's art is born from emotion—joy, heartbreak, and healing—with each piece speaking to a story.

Her mission is clear: "to help women who’ve been abandoned or lost in life transitions... to offer them a safe space to feel, create, and heal." Zhar believes that "distortion here doesn't mean damage. It means depth. Emotion. Real life." Through her art, she champions women's resilience, reminding them, "YOU ARE NOT ALONE. YOU ARE ENOUGH. YOUR VOICE MATTERS."

Her artworks are an essential experience, a profound exploration of human vulnerability and strength, inviting us all to recognize the beauty even in our broken parts. Don't miss "Distorted Versions of Deeper Truth" at the Nami Art Gallery, White Plains, Quezon City until the 31st of July.

WHO WILL YOU NOMINATE? THE UMALOHOKAN AWARDS 2025 CALLS ON A NATION TO HONOR ITS TRUTHFUL VOICES

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

PASAY CITY — December 2025 is set to become a defining moment in the world of digital influence and meaningful media, as the Umalohokan Awards prepares to take center stage at the grand World Trade Center Manila. For the very first time, a national awards ceremony will give its highest honors not to the loudest, but to the truest voices in content creation.

The stage is now set. The spotlight is yours to help cast.

CALLING ALL DIGITAL HEROES—AND THE PEOPLE WHO BELIEVE IN THEM

This is more than just another awards night. This is a movement. A crusade. A cultural reckoning that calls upon every Filipino to look beyond the viral and the clickbait, and instead uplift those who courageously choose truth, substance, and service in the content they create.

The Umalohokan Awards 2025 is now officially open for nominations. The search begins for ten outstanding content creators who have made a significant impact through truthful, balanced, inspiring, and socially relevant storytelling—those who resisted the lure of disinformation, who valued public good over virality, and who used their platforms not for profit, but for purpose.

This isn’t just about influencers. This is about influencers of integrity.

Whether they are seasoned storytellers or silent warriors creating ripple effects in their own communities, whether they have thousands of followers or just a few—but their content moved you, enlightened you, or empowered you—this is your moment to speak out.

WHO ARE THE UMALOHOKAN?

The name “Umalohokan” harkens back to the ancient Filipino tradition of town criers—chosen voices who would go around communities to proclaim important news. They were trusted. They were respected. They were heard.

Today, in the digital age, our umalohokan wear many faces: journalists, vloggers, educators, environmental advocates, whistleblowers, fact-checkers, health communicators, artists, and ordinary citizens who choose to post with a purpose.

These are the new bearers of truth—and the Umalohokan Awards 2025 seeks to honor them in a night that will echo far beyond the walls of the World Trade Center.

WHY THIS MATTERS NOW

In an era where misinformation runs rampant and popularity often overshadows integrity, the Umalohokan Awards serves as a bold, defiant stand—a celebration of creators who refuse to compromise in pursuit of the truth.

Here, likes don’t determine legacy—impact does.

Here, truth-tellers rise above trend-chasers.

This is not a spectacle. It is a salute—to the brave, the bold, the honest.

NOMINATE NOW—BE PART OF HISTORY

The nomination process is simple, yet deeply meaningful:

➡️ Comment the name of your nominated content creator

➡️ Include their social media link

➡️ Share a few lines about their content, and why you believe they deserve this honor

You may be nominating a friend, a colleague, a family member—or even someone you’ve never met but whose content changed your life. Your voice will help amplify theirs.

From all nominations, the Top 10 most voted creators will receive the highest recognition during the awards night—complete with fanfare, a curated spotlight, and a platform to share their advocacy with the nation.

DECEMBER 2025: A NIGHT TO REMEMBER

Taking place at the iconic World Trade Center Manila, the Umalohokan Awards promises not only prestige, but inspiration. With its luxurious halls, global-class staging, and deeply Filipino spirit, the venue mirrors the grandeur and gravity of the stories that will be honored.

It will be more than an event—it will be a reminder: that even in a world blurred by filters and algorithms, authenticity still matters, and truth will always shine through.

So the question now is—who inspired you? Who opened your eyes? Who told the truth when it mattered most?

Don’t let their voices go unheard.

Nominate your Umalohokan today.

Celebrate the content that uplifts our nation.

And join us this December 2025—where truth becomes the loudest voice in the room.

For official updates, use #UmalohokanAwards2025 and stay tuned to our social media channels.

Art for the Soul: A Glimpse into the Minds of Filipino Artists at Nami Art Gallery

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

As an art critic, or so I dream to be, it is a rare privilege to encounter an exhibition that not only showcases exceptional talent but also deeply resonates with the human spirit. The "Ready Get Grit" exhibition at the Nami Art Gallery in White Plains, Quezon City, is precisely such an experience. 

Running until July 31st, this immersive art experience is a testament to the transformative power of creativity, featuring 40 poignant pieces from 14 emerging artists, mentored by 6 experienced PH Masters, including Dr. Renato Cheng and Fernando Sena. This exhibit isn't just a collection of artworks; it's a profound journey into resilience, healing, and empowerment.

Here are just a few of the art pieces that you can find at the gallery, but please do check the video that I took as well which shows more of these

"Ready Get Grit" delves into how personal life struggles and challenges can be transmuted into breathtaking artistry. It is an honest and vulnerable exploration of the emotional landscapes faced by individuals grappling with mental health struggles, personal loss, and other profound life-defining challenges. Stepping into the gallery, one immediately feels that this is more than a passive viewing; it is an invitation to engage, to feel, and to witness the cathartic process of healing unfold through visual narratives. The multi-sensory approach of the exhibit enhances this connection, allowing sight, sound, taste, touch, and even smell to evoke raw emotions and complex experiences, guiding the viewer through a deeply personal journey toward inner fortitude.

A Sensory Odyssey Through Art: A Critic's Perspective

The exhibition's structure as a sensory odyssey is a stroke of genius, creating an intimate and impactful dialogue between the art and the observer.

Hear the Sculpted Stories of Overcoming Adversity:

Artists: Jeff Dahilan, Mari Zhar, La Gemina

The works in this section are truly captivating. Jeff Dahilan's intricate mosaics and abstract paintings (as seen in the striking piece featuring a peacock and butterflies against a nuanced facial profile) immediately draw you in with their hidden images and subtle narratives. There's a profound "clarity in the mess" that he speaks of, and it's beautifully evident in his precise yet fluid compositions. Mari Zhar's Modern Abstract Expressionism, particularly her sculptural integrations (like the piece with a vibrant red slash over a bare back), are deeply emotive. Her use of color to evoke pain and healing is remarkably effective, creating a visual language that is both raw and poetic. La Gemina's Contemporary Abstract Relief Sculptures are truly groundbreaking; their three-dimensional forms, like the textured white and gold pieces, speak volumes without words, illuminating "divine truth, healing, and redemption" in a way that is both ethereal and profoundly tangible. These artists masterfully sculpt stories that resonate with strength and the arduous journey of overcoming.

Taste the Colors of Embracing Identity:

Artists: Jes Luna, Pam Diel, Girl Lee

While I couldn't physically "taste" the colors, the vibrant energy exuded by the works of Pam Diel (her striking red and gold swan piece is a powerful visual), Jes Luna, and Girl Lee certainly leaves a strong impression. Pam Diel's eclectic contemporary art with its "upcycled edge" is particularly fascinating, showcasing incredible resourcefulness and a playful yet sophisticated approach to transformation. Her pieces feel like a celebration of movement and possibility, inviting viewers to embrace the "thrill of a life lived in bold, brilliant hues." The boldness of their palettes symbolizes the journey of embracing one's true self, leaving a lasting flavor of empowerment.

Feel the Hues of Strength Through Pain:

Artists: Marko Bello, Cris Manalo, Dwight De Leon, Anthony Palomo

This section is incredibly potent. Marko Bello's Marked Figurative Realism (as seen in the powerful depiction of a man with a red band over his eyes, speaking to hidden wounds and introspection) is a raw and unflinching exploration of human emotion. His ability to convey "strength, isolation, and personal battles" is truly masterful, making each piece a profound connection to the human spirit. Dwight De Leon's Floral Abstracts, such as the vibrant sunflowers (a truly uplifting work!), are a testament to finding refuge and inspiration. His reinterpretation of nature's simplicity into expressive pieces is both healing and transformative. The textures and expressive qualities of the works here genuinely allow one to "feel the hues of strength through pain," a powerful and moving experience.

Smell the Essence of Empowerment Through Personal Growth:

Artists: Angelo Roxas, Julius Legaspi, Maldita Magsaysay, Cas Lib

The thematic depth in this section is palpable. Julius Legaspi's realism, with its profound emotional depth, goes beyond mere representation to capture the "unseen realities" of Filipino life, evoking a sense of heritage and deep-seated emotion. Maldita Magsaysay's Pop Surrealism is an enchanting journey into healing and hope, with her "big-eyed muses" (as detailed in her artist statement) offering a whimsical yet deeply personal narrative of overcoming anxiety and embracing the inner child. Cas Lib's Impressionism, driven by her personal battle with cancer, makes her art a powerful statement on the "human body as sacred" and the beauty found in overcoming life's challenges. Her vibrant color palettes are truly empowering. These artists collectively exude an essence of growth and resilience that is profoundly inspiring.

A Deeper Look at the Artists:

Julius Legaspi: Realism with Emotional Depth

Legaspi's dedication to pastel painting imbues his work with a softness and expressiveness that perfectly conveys the emotional nuances he seeks to capture. His commitment to the "unseen realities" of Filipino life makes his art not just beautiful but deeply resonant.

Maldita Magsaysay: Pop Surrealism and Healing

Magsaysay's use of childlike imagery and fantastical elements creates a unique visual language that is both inviting and deeply therapeutic. Her art truly feels like a sanctuary, a vibrant testament to personal healing and the power of imagination.

Cas Lib: Impressionism with a Personal Emotional Focus

The raw honesty and vibrant expression in Cas Lib's work are incredibly moving. Her focus on empowering women and celebrating the human body as sacred, particularly through her fight with cancer, imbues her art with remarkable strength and beauty.

La Gemina: Contemporary Abstract Relief Sculpture

La Gemina's ability to translate spiritual and personal revelations into tangible, textured forms is truly remarkable. Her sculptures demand close inspection, revealing new depths and meanings with every angle and shift in light.

Mari Zhar: Modern Abstract Expressionism with Sculptural Integration

Mari Zhar's work is a powerful conversation between color and form, emotion and material. Her pieces are not merely observed but felt, offering a profound space for reflection and connection to shared human experiences.

Dr. Renato Cheng: Art and Medicine in Harmony

Dr. Cheng's oil paintings reflect a meticulous attention to detail and a vibrant palette, showcasing a beautiful synergy between his scientific and artistic pursuits. His work is a reminder that passion can truly bring balance and happiness.

Dwight De Leon: Floral Abstract

Dwight De Leon's floral abstracts are a joyous explosion of color and texture. His journey of finding solace and inspiration in art after a health scare is beautifully reflected in his work, which radiates peace and purpose.

Jeff Dahilan: Mosaic Design and Abstract Painting

Dahilan's mastery of mosaic design combined with abstract painting creates truly unique and captivating pieces. His ability to find "clarity in the mess" and embed "hidden images" in his work invites a delightful engagement with the viewer.

Marko Bello: Marked Figurative Realism

Marko Bello’s raw and powerful depictions of the human form and spirit are arresting. His unflinching exploration of psychological landscapes and personal battles makes his art profoundly impactful and deeply relatable.

Pam Diel: Eclectic Contemporary Art with an Upcycled Edge

Pam Diel's innovative use of upcycled materials and her bold, fluid forms bring a fresh and energetic perspective to contemporary art. Her work is a vibrant invitation to embrace creativity and a life lived in "bold, brilliant hues."

These Filipino artists, through their diverse styles and profound narratives, are not just creating beautiful objects; they are shaping culture, sparking conversations, and inviting us to look deeper into ourselves and the world around us. Their dedication and passion are a testament to the enduring power of art to transform, heal, and inspire. I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to the Nami Art Gallery in White Plains, Quezon City, to experience the captivating works of the "Ready Get Grit" exhibition firsthand before it concludes on July 31st! It is an experience that promises to engage all your senses and leave you with a profound sense of empowerment.