It’s sad to think we humans have become appendages to machines — not the way philosophers like Marx saw it, but in a more functional-dysfunctional way. And just as artificial intelligence is fast transforming every sphere of human life, a group of Filipino artists is pushing back against the tide of post-modernity — not by rejecting it, but by revisiting something older and perhaps more profound. Members of the Alpas Art Group, through their latest exhibit “Taym Pers 3,” have created an art experience that serves as both a homage to Filipino culture and a gentle reminder of a simpler time. The exhibit, currently on view at Robinsons Land’s ARTablado space, resuscitates traditional Filipino games that aim to inspire audiences to reflect on childhood memories and their cultural roots.
The title “Taym Pers,” a colloquial Filipino phrase meaning “time out,” is apt for the exhibit. It invites visitors to take a pause, step back from the high-tech, high-speed world, and reminisce about the traditional games that once shaped Filipino youth. In this third iteration of the “Taym Pers series,” the Alpas Art Group combines nostalgic charm with modern artistic interpretations, contrasting the innocence of past childhoods with the complexities of today’s digital age.
Alpas Curator Jami Samson explain how the group adapted a new approach. “We examine how the games of our youth, such as saranggola (kite-flying), have evolved, with drones now replacing traditional pastimes,” said Jami. “This exhibition not only highlights contrasts between past and present but also offers an analogy on how childhood games have shaped us and adapted into adulthood, as seen in how the patintero has metaphorically transformed into the act of navigating busy streets.”
Viewers can see works by Abel Gatbonton, Adan Pesito, Arnold Dominic Ty, Benedict John Simbulan, Calix Avery Vale, Carlmel Bernard Belda, Charmaine Narne, Fernando Sena, Jade Cabauatan, Jaja Japitana, Jami Samson, Jana Mendoza, Jerico De Leon, Jonathan Joven, Jovan Barandino, Krister Isip, Kristine Costo, Naomi Narne, Nolie Padilla, Pauline David, Ram Castillo, Sheryl Rodrigo, Vic Nazareno until Nov. 15 at Robinsons ARTablado, third floor of Robinsons Galleria.
Alpas President Jonathan Joven and Curator Jami Samson pointed out how they’ve also decided to mount interactive art installations. “By encouraging guests to engage with these installations, we aim to foster a sense of nostalgia and active participation in the preservation of these cultural treasures. Our goal is to promote and safeguard traditional Filipino games.” Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC)] champions Alpas’ vision by providing the ARTablado platform. With a profound belief in the creativity and ingenuity of Filipino artists, RLC has dedicated spaces at Robinsons Malls in Antipolo and Ortigas, offering a stage for artists to showcase their relentless hard work, grit, and perseverance. ARTablado has quickly become a transformative force for the art community, fulfilling the long-standing need for a platform that celebrates every artist — from solo practitioners to collective art groups — allowing their talents to shine in the spotlight they deserve. Jami said, “We are exhibiting again at ARTablado not only as a way of showing our gratitude to the venue, but we also believe ARTablado is the perfect alternative art space for our advocacy to reach the general public through a venue that is accessible to all.”
Joven expounded, “With each Taym Pers exhibition, we experience the joy of revisiting play and reflection. We are grateful for this opportunity to participate in yet another exhibition and deeply appreciate ARTablado for providing an alternative art space that supports our advocacy in preserving traditional Filipino games.”
Alpas Writer Charmaine Narne concluded, “As a group, we dealt with challenges like scheduling conflicts, limited manpower, knowledge on the materials to be used, and funding. But despite all the stress, exhaustion, and frustration, we proved that we could elevate our show together. We learned the importance of teamwork, bonding, and being committed to reaching bigger goals and successes as a team.” In the end, creating art has become Alpas’ own unique game — a test of strategy, resilience and collaboration — proving that just like in any game, it’s the collective play, passion and determination that bring that vision to life.
