Benilde Open

About • Benilde Open • Best of Benilde • FAQs • Convenors • Selection Committee • Schedule • Press • Contact

about the next wave of design and art in the country?

in synergy with De La Salle University and the Embassy of Switzerland

Benilde Design+Art Campus
950 P. Ocampo St., Malate, Manila, Philippines

Benilde HiFi Campus (Peter D. Garrucho Jr. Innovations Institute)
1049 P. Ocampo St., Malate, Manila, Philippines

May 23 to June 30, 2024,
Open Mondays to Saturdays at 10:00am-5:00pm

To know more about the exhibit and to book a tour, send an email to benildeopen@benilde.edu.ph.

Heidi Bucher: And pull yesterday into today

Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MCAD Manila)
Benilde Design+Arts Campus, Dominga St. Malate, Manila, Philippines

May 23 to August 18, 2024
Open Tuesdays to Saturdays at 10:00am-6:00pm

To know more about the exhibit and to book a tour, please send an email to mcad@benilde.edu.ph.

Upcoming Events

Layag • BALLPARK (Benilde All Purpose Parking)

Best of Benilde: Jasmine Tan, Sofia Barrion, and Ynes Manguerra • Shane Mariel Figuerra, John Patrick Pascua, Charles Edric Quianzon, Jonas Fabian Roque, and Maria Abigail Uson (in collaboration with Benilde Hub for Innovation for Inclusion (HiFi)

Tuesday June 18, 2024 | 2 to 4pm, 12F Gallery, Design + Arts Campus

The minds behind Layag, a pavilion promoting the Zamboanga Peninsula, and BALLPARK, a sustainable reimagining of Benilde campus parking, come together to discuss what it means to develop a design for a physical space. Learn more about their individual projects and how they found creative solutions for specific challenges.

Register here.

Film Screenings

Benilde Open and Best of Benilde: Maria, Maria by Lala Monserrat • Re-Move Unraveling Truths Behind The Spectacle Of Indigenous Exposition Through The Contemporary Performance Lens by Aaron Kaiser Garcia • Nightingales by RJ Fernandez • Ang Paglipad ng Saranggola sa Aplaya by Danielle Cusi

Wednesday, June 19, 2024 | 10am to 12nn, 5F Theater, Design + Arts Campus

Experience the captivating films and documentaries produced by Benilde Open and Best of Benilde exhibitors at the 5F Theater, Design + Arts Campus.

Register here.

Harnessing Personal Narratives to Shape a Compelling Body of Work

Best of Benilde: Akira Watanabe with special guest Regine David

Wednesday, June 19, 2024 | 2 to 4pm, 12F Gallery, Design + Arts Campus

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion with Best of Benilde student exhibitor Akira Watanabe and international photographer Regine David on shared experiences and perspectives in photography.

Register here.

Teachable moments: How do we facilitate learning through exhibitions?

Alain Zedrick Camiling, Chairperson and Curatorial Consultant, De La Salle- College of Saint Benilde Creative Industries Management Program and Museo Pambata • Mark Louie Lugue, Assistant Professor and Curator, University of the Philippines Diliman Department of Art Studies and Bulwagan ng Dangal University Heritage Museum • Mary Ann Pernia, Head of Learning and Special Projects, Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MCAD) • Randel Urbano, Associate Director for Audience Development, Metropolitan Museum of Manila • In collaboration with MCAD Manila and Benilde AB Creative Industries Management Program

Friday, June 21, 2024 | 11:30am to 1:30pm, 12F Gallery, Design + Arts Campus

What is a teachable moment in the context of arts, culture, and creative industries? This roundtable discussion surveys perspectives and strategies from professionals directly and/or indirectly engaging with academic institutions which point to projects, activities, and initiatives that enable diverse forms of learning through teachable moments. In this session, exhibitions are perceived as a contact zone for learning, engagement, and participation for/with diverse publics. Cases presented in this discussion are targeted to those who teach courses on arts, culture, and creativity; those who are passionate in learning, pedagogy, and knowledge production and sharing across the arts and creative industries ecosystem; and those who are exploring how they may be able to integrate exhibitions in their respective practices, processes, and professions.

Register here.

Imprint—A Monotype Workshop

Hershey Malinis, Chairperson of Benilde Fine Arts in Culture-Based Arts Program

Saturday, June 22, 2024 | 2pm, 14F Studio, Design + Arts Campus

Learn the art of monoprinting in this printmaking workshop. A monotype is a unique print, typically having a painterly effect, created by applying paint or ink to a flat sheet of metal, glass, or plastic.

Register here.

STAKEHOLDING: Chapter One (A Developing Tabletop Game)

Benilde Open Grantee: Lyra Garcellano

Monday to Saturday, June 3 to June 30, 2024 | 11am to 12nn, 12F Cafeteria, Design + Arts Campus

Conceptualized in 2023, STAKEHOLDING: Chapter One is a developing, contemplative, and discursive board game that explores the intersecting ecologies in the cultural and contemporary art world. Players build their own imagined community and occasionally face complex decisions in hypothetical scenarios as they traverse the board to meet their desired goals.

Register here.

Biyahe: A Design of a Board Game for Visually-Impaired Filipinos

Benilde Open Grantee: Pia Maghirang

Monday to Saturday, June 10 to June 30, 2024 | 10 to 11am, 12F Cafeteria, Design + Arts Campus

Biyahe highlights Philippine culture and immerses players in a sensory experience that accommodates differently abled players. Originally designed to aid in play therapy, it hones skills essential for real life.

Register here.

35 years

of trailblazing higher education in the creative, digital and service industries

In celebration of its 35th year, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde launches Benilde Open Design + Art, an initiative that welcomes artists, actors, architects, technologists, engineers, industrial designers, craftsmen, illustrators, textile designers, animators, playwrights, composers, video game artist, poets, filmmakers, producers, cinematographers, lighting designers, web developers, editors, fashion designers, chefs, photographers, graphic designers, landscape architects, jewelry designers, orchestra conductors, choirmasters, DJs, stylists, multimedia designers, make-up artists, arts teachers, dancers, choreographers, authors, writers, puppeteers, art directors and all creative practitioners of Filipino citizenship – to heed the call to submit proposals to realize projects that have not seen the light of day.

Benilde Open Design + Art is dedicated to shaping art and design sensibilities by championing innovative and collaborative projects across diverse creative disciplines within and outside the school.

Selected Proposals

The Benilde Open calls for unrealized projects from Benildean and non-Benildean creative practitioners. This thematically explores the curious mindset. Proposals should revolve around curiosities on movement and its relationship to sustainability; the shuttling of thinking across craft and technology; and the culturing of the virtual with the real. The call further seeks design and art projects marked by an appetite for investigation and experimentation, for tinkering that fuels renovation and innovation.

Polymer & Palm: Excerpts of the Tropikalye Index

Nice Buenaventura and Costantino Zicarelli

An online index of photographs and text highlighting the accidental intersections of contemporary Philippine aesthetics and the everyday from the vantage point of the street. It is a portmanteau of the words “tropical” and the Tagalized Spanish “kalye”.

Nightingales

RJ Fernandez

An observational documentary video of three Filipino nurses from East Sussex that shows their daily life, as well their horticultural activities as they learn to grow food in a community garden.

STAKEHOLDING: CHAPTER 1, A Developing Tabletop Game

Lyra Garcellano

The game proposes discussions and conversations that take off from philosophical queries, such as: How do we design a new art world? How can we chart our journey? How can we be mobile in that path? What do we do when we collide with other worlds/communities – do we occupy and conquer or do we cooperate and collaborate?

RE-MOVE: Unraveling truths behind the spectacle of indigenous exposition through the contemporary performance lens

Aaron Kaiser Garcia

The project aims to highlight how colonial infrastructures remove cultural artifacts from our indigenous communities; and in response to this removal, we aim to recreate, reimagine, and re—move our bodies to shine a light on this spectacle of indigenous exposition and exploitation.

Exploring the Use of Philippine Silk in Tausug Pisyabit Weaving

Rambie Lim

Through research and experimentation on how to adapt traditional weaving and dying techniques, the designer proposes to bridge the gap between suppliers, dyers and weavers to bring about the renaissance of traditional Tausug textiles by working with weavers from Padirna Sanaani of Parang, Sulu and Ruhina Muhaimer of Maimbung, Sulu.

Unraveling Baguio’s Inner Tapestry: A Psychogeographical Exploration

Gabe Mercado

Through unscripted walks – a team of artists and explorers with experience in psychogeography, sound art, photography, performance, knitting, design, architecture, and poetry will guide the exploration.

Maria, Maria

Lala Monserrat in collaboration with Russ Ligtas, Geric Cruz and Jazel Kristin, along with the LGBTQ Community of Barangay San Miguel in San Antonio, Zambales

The project lends itself to the fostering of collaborative work and collective care for artists and the public by creating a safe space within the intersections of art, community engagement, and cultural mapping through performance, photography, film and sculpture.

Cosmic Garden

Issay Rodriguez

The project asks: How can the synergy of art and agriculture 4.0 technologies drive innovation towards positive outcomes rather than instilling fear? Inspired by the phrase, “as above, so below”, the artist aims to evoke the intricate relationship between the universe and earthly gardens, exploring it through the unique perspective of bees.

Developing Puppetry in the Philippines

Mikayla Teodoro and Benjor Catindig

The project aims to introduce new puppetry arts to turn the country into a puppetry hub in Southeast Asia. Advanced mechanisms in puppetry are explored and local puppet makers trained to create complex puppet joints.

CURIOUS: Spotlight on Filipino Sign Language Literature

Michael Vea

The project focuses on integrating FSL Literature within the landscape of Philippine literary arts through a pioneering creative signing workshop and an exhibition featuring works from five Deaf literary fellows.

Baluy Manghagdaway: A Functional Installation Art Created in Collaboration with the Umayamnon Community of Barangay Lambagan, Mandahican and Mandaing, Municipality of Cabanglasan

Errol P. Balcos (SPECIAL MENTION)

The visual artist advocates for the rights of corn gleaners through functional public art. Must public art such as installations be situated in parks in urban areas? If indeed installations can be exhibited in remote areas such as corn farms, can it be made functional and livable for the Umayamnon? Can it be replicated among other communities of gleaners in Bukidnon?

Selected Proposals

Benilde Open Design + Art also features the Best of Benilde, a juried degree exhibition of student works. An open call for proposals is extended to all students of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.

Students submitted school projects that speculate on the future of their industry – spanning sustainability and movement, the intersection of craft and technology, and the exploration of digital or virtual domains.

Designing Space for Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” and Ryan Jacobson’s “Can you Survive Dracula”

Louisa Ray Cagalingan

The designer aims to allow the audience to explore their dark side and satisfy their curiosity by acting as the main character, Jonathan Harker. The staging of the exhibition is significant since Dracula still remains popular in contemporary times.

The Local Identity

Xandrix Antaso Corpus Jr.

An open service directory that brings together emerging creative practitioners. It serves as a comprehensive catalog for quality service at fair rates through an accessible app platform.

Ang Paglipad ng Saranggola sa Aplaya

Danielle Cusi

An unrealized film about friendship set in Oriental Mindoro. Diane spends her annual summer breaks with her grandmother, and she learns that her friend Rosie had sacrificed to support her family by living far away to work as a domestic helper.

Hugo: A Smart Pillow for Self-Regulation

Asia Entico

A non-invasive, non-pharmacological device that stimulates the vagus nerve through vibrations. Stimulating the vagus nerve helps regulate most of our bodily functions & bring our nervous system back to a zone of safety.

Hustlers

Gela Mae C. Gamil

A platform for freelance physical laborers – such as an electrician, locksmith, carpenter, or welder – to connect with clients through a phone app for home and related services. The recruitment process would be done through TESDA.

Everglow Art Retreats

Veronica Landig

A fully inclusive yoga and art center that focuses on bridging the gap between the desire to move, create, and dive deep into it. Movement through dance and theater combined with simple yoga sequences is introduced as play.

Byahe: Design of a Board Game for Visual Impaired Filipinos

Pia Maghirang

A game for therapy sessions of children who are visually impaired.

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Earl John Marquez

An AR exhibition about the system of consuming poverty porn contents made by content creators. This is to raise awareness and knowledge among young adult netizens.

Project Noir

Camille Jay Pinton

A project that commits to address environmental and social challenges in the Philippine fashion industry as champions of sustainability through a curated collection of clothing that embodies this at every stage of its production process and narrative.

PROJECT C.H.A.R.L.I.E (Computerized Hotel Assessment Responder and Learning Intelligence Engine)

Liezl Anne Nierves, Glaeor Magne Dominguez, Mariana Julian Bernal with faculty mentor Alejandro Hector Reyes

A primary virtual entity of innovation designed for hotel guests. It learns guests’ profiles, observes behavior, and remembers preferences for products and services that a hotel’s facilities are capable of providing.

Gender Reveal

Brian Ilustrisimo Razon

A multimedia exhibition which aims to explore the intricacies of human gender, celebrate the art of drag, and promote gender equality.

BALLPARK (Benilde All-Purpose Parking)

Jonas Roque with Shane Marielle Figuerra, Charles Cedric Quianzon, John Patrick Pascua, and Maria Abigail Uson

A design project of a creative parking facility that promotes green mobility.

STUDEN.SITE

Jonas Roque

A website platform for up to date, verified, affordable housing options in the vicinity of Taft. It simplifies the search process by providing necessary details about amenities, nearby facilities, and pricing.

The Kid in Me

Jamila Clarisse San, Mary Julianne Capistrano, Mary Joy Velarde, Alfred Alavar and Nicus Villaluna

An interactive book that delves into the phenomenon of the inner child. Meant for young passionate creatives, this takes them on a step-by-step journey of self-development through AR feature illustrations, a website where the digital copy is embedded, and related multimedia collaterals.

Layag

Jasmine Fiona Tan, Sofia Anjelik Barrion, Ynes Sofia Manguerra

This is a design of a pavilion to promote the economic and cultural industries of the Zamboanga Peninsula.

Surreal Portraits

Akira Watanabe

A photography exhibition on experimental, creative and surreal portraiture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can propose to the Benilde Open call?

All creative practitioners are invited to heed the call to submit proposals: artists, actors, architects, technologists, engineers, industrial designers, craftsmen, illustrators, textile designers, animators, playwrights, composers, video game artist, poets, filmmakers, producers, cinematographers, lighting designers, web developers, editors, fashion designers, chefs, photographers, graphic designers, landscape architects, jewelry designers, orchestra conductors, stylists, multimedia designers, make-up artists, arts teachers, dancers, choreographers, authors, writers, puppeteers, art directors and all creative practitioners of Filipino citizenship.

What type of creative projects can be proposed for the Benilde Open call?

We encourage proposals of unrealized projects that are multidisciplinary in nature and in line with the theme, Curious. Proposals should reflect interests and curiosities found across: sustainability and movement, craft and technology, and digital or virtual. As in the spirit of any Open we would like to affirm that it welcomes all proposals across disciplines and inspirations.

Is my proposal eligible for a Benilde Open call grant?

All projects proposed specifically for the Benilde Open, in line with the theme, CURIOUS are eligible for funding of up to ₱300,000.00 net of taxes, if it’s selected. Up to ten proposals will be selected by a committee of local and international advocates representing different sectors in the creative industries. The announcement of selected proposals is on March 2024.

Is my proposal for Best of Benilde eligible for funding?

Best of Benilde is a juried degree exhibition of student works. Proposals can be submitted by all students of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde who are currently enrolled. Proposals from alumni from the academic years spanning 2020 to 2023 will be accepted, if it is endorsed by the dean of the school. There is no funding for these projects as they are part of a current or previous academic exercise. However, full support will be provided in staging and promoting the project in the best possible way so the public is fully engaged.

Where do I find the application form?

Visit the Benilde Open Design + Art website: open.benilde.edu.ph to access the application forms for both Benilde Open and Best of Benilde.

What is the schedule of Benilde Open Design + Art?

December 1, 2023 to February 12, 2024 (extended)
Submission of proposals

February 2024
Review and selection of proposals

March 2024
Announcement of selected proposals

May 23, 2024 to June 30, 2024
Benilde Open Design + Art exhibition dates

Can I meet with a representative from Benilde Open Design + Art before applying?

Yes, a zoom meeting can be arranged with a representative of the Benilde Open Design + Art team. Please send an email request to benildeopen@benilde.edu.ph. Also email in advance any questions or concerns that need to be addressed.

Can anyone help me write the proposal?

Yes, anybody can help you write the proposal except for individuals who are part of the Benilde Open Design + Art team.

Who reviews the proposals for Benilde Open and Best of Benilde?

The proposals are reviewed and selected by a committee of individuals who are local and international advocates representing various sectors within the creative industries. Current faculty, associates and consultants of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde are not part of the selection committee to encourage them to submit proposals.

Are administrative, transport or related expenses supported by the Benilde Open grant?

All administrative, transport and related expenses are supported as long as they are reflected in the budget submitted in the proposal. The maximum amount that can be funded is ₱300,000.00 net of taxes. You should be able to realize your proposed project within this amount. The Benilde Open Design + Art team will also provide curatorial assistance for the staging of your project. There will be several meetings to discuss the ideas for staging the project.

What are the terms and conditions?

By submitting an application to the Benilde Open, each Proponent confirms that they are the owner or the licensee of all applicable intellectual property (and moral rights) in the Project.

All intellectual property rights in the Project shall at all times remain (as between the parties) the property of the Proponent, subject to the provisions of existing intellectual property laws.

In consideration of the grant provided by Benilde, the Recipient agrees to acknowledge, in perpetuity, the support received from Benilde in all materials, publications, and public presentations related to the Project. The Recipient further undertakes to ensure the access of Benilde to any exhibitions or use of the Project, allowing representatives of Benilde reasonable access, upon prior notice, for purposes of observation, documentation and promotion. This undertaking shall continue beyond the completion of the Project, and is binding on the successors and assigns of both parties.

Envisioning the Future of Design and Arts

Benilde Open Design + Art is facilitated by a working team of convenors who are faculty, associates or consultants in service of the school together with Benilde President, Br. Edmundo Fernandez FSC, a visual artist.

The convenors share, “It’s the kind of creative democracy that should be encouraged, one that cuts across geography, social status, privilege, gender, power, disciplines, and even education. The inquisitiveness of a curious mind could well be the impetus in the articulation of a multiplicity of creativities. In a similar way that knowledge is different, creativity is fleshed out through the most surprising of modes. As in the spirit of any Open we would like to affirm that it welcomes all proposals across disciplines and inspirations.”