Left to right: Joejene Santos, Teresa Rozkiewicz, Christiane Mayo, Dr. Donald Bobiash, Ambassador Petronila Garcia, Christienne Cuevas, Archimedes Cruzado, and Kristina Corre gather onstage for the introduction of the artists.
19 March 2019, Ottawa – “Postcards Across the Pacific,” an art exhibit featuring local Filipino and Canadian visual artists, opened its doors at the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa on Tuesday, 19 March 2019, to a strong turnout of local residents as well as representatives from the diplomatic corps and the Canadian government.
An estimated crowd of 200 flocked to the Philippine Embassy’s Sentro Rizal Ottawa to witness the launching of the exhibit which was held in commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of Philippines-Canada Relations. Highlighting the strong ties between Canadians and Filipinos, the art exhibit explores the experiences of migrants to Canada and the artists’ views on life as a Canadian with multicultural roots.
Kristina Corre, Archimedes Cruzado, Christienne Cuevas, Christiane Mayo, Teresa Rozkiewicz, and Joejene Santos are the featured artists whose works will be displayed at the Sentro Rizal Ottawa until April 2, 2019. A mix of first and second generation immigrants, the artists showcase varying styles ranging from the abstract to portraiture, photorealism, and meticulous combinations of found objects.
Speaking at the opening reception, Global Affairs Canada Assistant Deputy Minister Donald Bobiash recalled the warmth, kindness, and generosity of Filipinos during his recent visit to the Philippines. He thanked the Philippine Embassy for hosting the event and congratulated the artists presenting their work. “With our shared commitment to the Asia Pacific region, I am optimistic that our ties between the Philippines and Canada will continue to expand on the basis of our respect for democracy, pluralism, and diversity,” he said.
Philippine Ambassador to Canada Petronila P. Garcia thanked Dr. Bobiash for gracing the occasion and expressed hope that the exhibit would share a glimpse into the artists’ lives. She emphasized that “through their eyes, we can appreciate how the many connections and interactions of different peoples can create beauty, foster understanding, and further strengthen relationships with each other.”
Inquiries on “Postcards Across the Pacific” may be directed to telephone number 613.233.1121 (Cultural Section) or email address ottawape.sentrorizal[at]rogers.com. END.