Renowned Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor opened his latest solo exhibition, Kuwaresma, at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery on April 13, Palm Sunday, offering a vibrant reflection on the traditions and symbolism of the Lenten season.
The 38-piece exhibit features a series of paintings that draw on Baldemor’s signature style — a blend of folk art, religious iconography and Filipino cultural themes — to explore the spiritual themes of Holy Week. Kuwaresma, the Spanish term for Lent, depicts the solemn 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and reflection observed in Christian tradition.
“As a painter and sculptor, I want to capture the essence of Filipino life and traditions, especially Holy Week,” Baldemor said. “Kuwaresma is a culmination of my fascination with Lenten folk rituals, particularly the Nazareno procession, whose devotion continues to humble and inspire me.”
The opening reception drew several prominent guests, including 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; National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario, also known as Rio Alma; and Cecile Guidote-Alvarez, founder of the Philippine Educational Theatre Association.
The exhibit is on view at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery through April 30. Admission is free.
