Missed out on last month’s biannual showcase of craftsmanship at FAME? Fret not, we have you covered. Here’s a roundup of Filipino designers who are weaving their way into the artisanal game.
WYLC Apparel Manufacturing
Hot off their first exhibition at FAME, fledgling designer couple Alvin and Evita Degamo are on a mission to spruce up the country’s wardrobe. Paying homage to the Philippines' colourful textile heritage, the duo commission local artisanal talents, helping to maintain traditional weaving techniques. Their debut ‘Wear Your Culture’ collection launched in April, blending retro street-style with bright pops of ethnic flair in their line of funky everyday wear for men and women. Order online.
The Cabinet at Canterbury by Jas Ancheta Interiors
The Ancheta family is known for its longstanding association with art and design, with husband Allan inheriting his father’s love of design and wife Jas recently launching her own interiors business. Their dedication to the arts is reflected in their home, which has been transformed into a gallery of collectables open to viewing. Around 40 mins by cab from the Peninsula, the covetable stash includes paintings, sculptures and objects, plus works by partner artists such as local sculptor Richard Buxani and painters Tonton Ador and Micko Macariola. Contact Jas direct through her website to schedule a visit.
Anthill Fabric Factory
Brainchild of Anya Lim, Cebu-based Anthill weaves time-honoured textile traditions with ethical sourcing into a fashion-forward line of clothing and accessories. This socially conscious collective works with regional weaving communities to produce items both desirable and sustainable. There’s no actual store in Manila, but the range is available at pop-ups and online. Peepers peeled for their upcoming zero-waste collection.
Interweave Concepts
Also working hard to protect the Pinoy weaving traditions is creative duo Mike and Banj Claparols. In partnershop with the Negros Nine Human Development Foundation, their venture, Interweave Concepts, is sparking an entrepreneurial spirit in remote communities on Negros, the fourth largest island in the Philippines. Local craftspeople are empowered to hone their skills and grow their communities via the production of beach wraps, shawls and clothing, all of which can be bought from the Interweave website.
WYC Apparel Manufacturing / Tel: +63 2 745 8470 / Email: wyc2016est@gmail.com / wycapparel.com
Anthill / Pedro Calomarde St. / Cor Acacia St.Gorordo Ave / Cebu City / +63 32 505 4175 / anthillfabricgallery.com
The Cabinet at Canterbury / Canterbury St / Hillsborough Alabang / Cupang / Muntinlupa / 8am-5pm, Mon-Fri / inquiries@jasanchetainteriors.com / jasanchetainteriors.com
Interweave Concepts / weavephilippines.com