The COVID-19 crisis has changed the world as we know it. The Brave New World Project is borne of the global pandemic. Specifically geared towards artists, they were asked: How do you envision life in the time of COVID-19?
The project has two components: an exhibition and coffee table book. To help the artists involved make a living despite the community quarantine and to assist in funding this historic project, the Brave New World exhibition was launched online on 24 July 2020.Commemorating the exhibition and the times is the Brave New World coffee table book, published by South East Asian Heritage Publications Inc.
The Brave New World coffee table book presents a collection of more than 400 works by over 300 artists, inspired by the bravery of people who continue to persevere despite the severe impact of the pandemic and the challenges of living in the new normal.
The coffee table book will be launched on 16 March 2022, 6 pm, at Art Lounge Manila, The Podium. The date marks the anniversary of the first time the enhanced community quarantine was implemented in Luzon. Accompanying the book launch is a physical exhibition of artworks from some of Brave New World’s participating artists. The show will run until March 26.
Featured artists in the book include Alfredo Esquillo, Antipas Delotavo, Charlie Co, Angelito Antonio, Norma Belleza, Michael Cacnio, Ramon Orlina, Max Balatbat, Anton Del Castillo, Brave Mabalo Singh, John Paul Antido, Renz Baluyot, Kim Hamilton Sulit, Renato Barja Jr., Wesley Valenzuela, Michael Villagante, Demi Padua, Winner Jumalon, Jojit Solano, Joel ‘Welbart’ Bartolome, Sid Natividad, Chelsea Theodossis, JomikeTejido, Manix Abrera, and Roel Obemio, to name a few.
The book also features essays by leading writers Jose Tence Ruiz, Purissima (Petty) Benitez-Johannot, Pepper Teehankee, Prim Paypon, Fundacion Sansó Director Ricky Francisco, and Galerie Joaquin Managing Director Jack Teotico, as well as Salinawit poetry by Jose F. Lacaba. Providing context to the book’s subject are photographs of the COVID-19 experience in the Philippines.
As we find our way through an extraordinary global crisis that affects all aspects of life, we are united by a common experience. These artistic offerings can hopefully help us make sense of a world turned upside-down. When this pandemic is behind us, may we look back and remember the struggles and hardships we faced, and the hope for better days ahead.
