As a third generation Filipino in Spain, Patricia Chipongian wishes to inspire her fellow youth to express themselves through art.
Arts is not an easy career to be in, but with the support of family, friends and the community, Patricia Chipongian wants to encourage them to let their voice be heard and expose their talents to the world. TFEM talks with Patricia as she shares her journey to her first solo exhibit “Balik”.
“Balik” is organized by The Filipino Expat Magazine in collaboration with Parroquia Personal de la Inmaculada Concepción y San Lorenzo Ruiz, Barcelona, Spain. It will run from November 17 to 24, 2024.
TFEM: What is the story behind Balik?
Patricia: Balik is a compilation of my two final projects for the Advanced Illustration and Animation Course. It is about a Filipino girl whose name is Jane and her journey from the Philippines to Spain. One of my goals for this exhibition is to inspire young people who live among different cultures. I want them to show the potential of having two or more communities and traditions. To be able to enjoy both worlds and express this through art – whether audiovisual, graphic, plastic, or written – is a way to expand and communicate our roots to the world. I see more of this in young people each day, and I want this “tradition” to carry on for generations.
TFEM: How do you feel about your first art exhibit?
Patricia: I am thrilled to tell these stories, which have remained alive thanks to family and friends who believe in my talent and support my projects. Their trust motivates me to keep going in this profession, which is gradually coming true and becoming a reality.
TFEM: Why did you study art?
Patricia: Honestly, this is one of the skills that I’m best at. It has evolved over time and has become a true passion. It also serves as motivation for me to keep improving and learning new techniques, styles, and mediums.
TFEM: Who is your favourite artist? Why?
Patricia: Out of all the artists I have studied, I admire Alfons Mucha the most. I am amazed by the way he composes characters and spaces to create aesthetic and dynamic images. I also admire him for giving prominence and importance to women in art, always representing them elegantly and meaningfully.
TFEM: How can you describe your art?
Patricia: Versatile. A sad reality is that I draw less and less, and rarely have a quiet day to draw just for myself. When I pick up the pencil again, it’s hard to remember how I used to draw or what style I want to follow. On top of that, seeing new art on social media inspires me, but it also makes me want to try what others are doing. So, in truth, I don’t have a fixed style; my style is constantly changing as I continue exploring and searching for one with which I can evolve.
TFEM: What is your fondest memory of the Philippines?
Patricia: Honestly, everything. The first time I visited, eight years ago, I was impressed by everything around me. But what captivated me most was the kindness of the people. They always strive to make your stay unique and special in every place you visit, and I think that’s a very valuable trait in our community.
TFEM: What was the initial reaction of your parents when you decided to take art as a degree?
Patricia: It was no surprise. I have always drawn, both at school and in my free time, so I think my family pretty much knew from the beginning.
TFEM: Is having foreign roots an advantage or disadvantage in your field of profession in Spain?
Patricia: It’s been a huge advantage. Not only have I been able to share my culture and roots, but I have also connected with people who identify with what I want to express, not only in art but in the message I want to convey.
TFEM: What important Filipino value/s has (have) shaped you as a person/artist?
Patricia: Respect and admiration for the small things. As a person and an artist, I’m always excited to see someone from my community taking an interest in art. I see more young people with a lot of talent here in Barcelona, and this desire to help them expand their ideas or motivate them to keep going is a value that has shaped the person and artist I am today.
TFEM: What is your advise to young Filipinos abroad?
Patricia: That they take advantage of the tools available to showcase our culture and that more people get to know who we are. And in doing so, I hope they experiment with their abilities and discover how far their talent can take them.
TFEM: What do you expect from those who will come to see your exhibit?
Patricia: I hope they feel welcomed and at home. I want this story, along with its characters and settings, to transport them to a place, a moment, or a person that they consider to be their warm and welcoming home.
Patricia is a graduate of Ilustración y animación 2D. Her Art Exhibit will showcase 10 artworks that tell the story of a young Filipino immigrant living abroad. This is her tribute to the Filipino diaspora in Spain.
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