brushstrokes needlepoint

07/12/2010

Partnership with the artist started in 2009 when DMC launched two cross-stitched renditions of his paintings: Good Harvest and Fruits of Labor. The patterns were such a huge hit that the brand brought Baldemor closer to the people by creating an opportunity for hobbyists to have their finished works signed by the artist himself.

This year, Baldemor shares two more of his paintings — Pahiyas Festival and Season of Hope. Both works are characteristic of Filipino culture. “We love to celebrate and through celebrations, people come together to show their warmth, hospitality and appreciation,” shared the artist during a media huddle.

The Pahiyas Festival, a 36 by 60 inch painting, is turned into an impressive, scaled-down 20 by 26 inch cross-stitch design. Pahiyas is one of the summer fiesta celebrations in the Philippines and a good portrayal of how local customs are celebrated. It is a thanksgiving of the people from Lucban, Quezon, in which they showcase abundant resources and produce, such as rice, which households turn into the very colorful kiping decorations.

Season of Hope, on the other hand, a 36 by 48 inch painting, is depicted marvelously into another scaled-down 24 by 23 inch needlepoint design. It deals with the more universal yearend celebration, Yuletide! It brings people together to celebrate the birth of Jesus and the promise of salvation from Him. This joyous season brings with it the general feeling of positivity. Most people just feel good and upbeat, no matter what circumstances they’re in.

Baldemor believes that this undertaking will help bring his art to the people. He lets every piece reflect his interpretation of life and he shares this with them. He reaches out to the hobbyists while DMC provides him with a new outlet to continue and extend his passion.

He brings forth the cultural and artistic aspects of the needlepoint craft, which the brand hopes to prosper. It is bridging both the artistic and cultural sensibilities of artist and stitcher.

For over two and a half centuries, DMC has been leading the needlecraft market with excellent service toward its consumers. Their products offer an extensive color range that’s also known for their quality. Its global distribution structure is available in 130 countries worldwide. The brand also has specialized threads with features that allow for a more creative and distinctive feel to the cross-stitched work. Bringing out its versatility, it produces metallic, light effects, variegated and satin variations of thread; with more than 400 skillfully graduated shades to choose from in every category.

Baldemor recently showcased the new DMC designs in his European exhibits at both cities of Helsinki, Finland, and Lisbon, Portugal, to highlight Philippine culture in commemoration of the Philippine Independence Day. It was the first time that Filipino cross-stitch designs were featured in a Baldemor art exhibit in Europe. The revered artist has been invited by the European and Philippine diplomatic circles to showcase Filipino art, of which cross-stitch is now a new medium. To further introduce to people the novelty of cross-stitching artists’ masterpieces, he is showcasing cross-stitched works on his ongoing exhibition tours in Europe until August.

To get hold of Baldemor’s Pahiyas Festival and Season of Hope cross-stitch patterns and other DMC products, visit craft stores nationwide. Donations will be given to United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) for every purchase of the patterns in behalf of Baldemor. He is the artist whose works are printed on the Unicef greeting cards worldwide for over 18 years now. The artist also moonlights as sculptor, writer and illustrator. He is a man who thirsts for an evolving exploration of his art and continues to embody Filipino culture through his trademark folk-inspired art and simplified geometric forms.

Aside from embroidery thread, DMC continuously comes out with stitch pattern designs to inspire hobbyists. Over the years, subjects have included landscapes, religious figures, people and still life. And as it continues to offer something new to the market, DMC also comes up with collaborations with great artists like Baldemor.

DMC offers free cross-stitch lessons at Creative World in SM Megamall’s Building A lower ground floor. For slot reservations, call 632-9978.

Back to top

For comments about this website:Webmaster@tribune.net.ph
The Daily Tribune © 2006