Two Young Filipina Artists Featured in Rome Art Exhibit

In celebration of the International Women’s Day and promotion of Philippine arts and culture, the Philippine Embassy in Rome supported the third edition of “La Mente Artistica – Giovani Donne Artiste a Confronto” (The Artistic Mind— Young Women Artists in Comparison) held from March 09 to 14 at Teatro Dei Dioscuri al Quirinale in Rome by featuring Ms. Kim T. Viray, a young Filipina jewelry artisan and entrepreneur based in Rome.

Kim’s entry is a collection of her personally handmade jewelries displaying her original and intricate designs. For Kim, her designs take inspiration from her strong oriental background, combined with the relaxed romance that is Italy. Because of her passion in jewelry-making, she ventured to be an entrepreneur and establish her personal line of jewelries called “KimiTe Jewels.”

Kim grew up in the Philippines and then moved to Rome in 2006. According to her, from the time she arrived in Rome, the passionate setting of the eternal city continues to inspire her as she meticulously designs and creates her jewelries and other accessories. Her first training was in interior design under Architect Edgar Lee and later on acquired her jewelry making techniques from Ms. Silvia Cerroni and Ms. Marinia Valli, two famous Italian designers. Prior to this exhibit, she took part in the Jewelry International Trade in Dubai in December 2014.

Another young Filipina artist, who had the privilege to participate in this year’s exhibit, is Ms. Jacqueline De Vega. Jacke’s entry to the exhibit entitled “Forza Belleza” (the beauty of strength), was a photo taken during the Medieval Festival 2014 in the town of Volterra in Tuscany. The photo depicts a young woman’s craftsmanship using leather, utilizing precise knowledge and skill in her craft, hence, the title “Forza Belleza.”

Jacke is an aspiring young photographer based in Rome. Prior to coming to Italy in 2008, she worked as a call center agent in the Philippines. Notwithstanding her humble livelihood as a house helper and babysitter, Jacke finds time to develop her talent in photography. She also writes news and articles for some newspapers and magazines that cater to the Filipino community in Italy and in other parts of Europe.

The exhibit was organized by L’Associazione Culturale Artistica Mente, a non-profit, non-political association which aims to promote culture through the arts.

Source: www.dfa.gov.ph