Notes and Pictures from the Athenaeum

The Athenaeum, located in the heart of the upscale City of La Jolla, is a special private library (open to the public, but only members can take out books) that's focused on art and music. This is the view from the front, and the circular space is the Rotunda, where our art exhibition is currently running.

The Atheneaum's not a typical gallery, and the artworks were set up in a manner that complemented the venue's relaxed, intellectual ambience.

Artworks by Daniel Aligaen, Agang Maganda & Anthony Fermin.

Artwork by Farley del Rosario

Sculpture by Michael Cacnio.

Artwork by Roel Obemio; Sculpture by Michael Cacnio

Artwork by Tres Roman

Artworks by Jomike Tejido, Wilfredo Offemaria and Anton Balao

The opening itself was very well attended, many by members of The Athenaeum who knew little about the Philippines. So "Looking for Juan" was a great introduction for them, and the response to the artworks, encouragingly, was universally very positive.

We had a book reading of Charmaine Aserappa's "Message in the Sand" in both English and Tagalog. A pianist provided background music during the reading, which was a perfect touch.

The Hon. Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon, Consul General of the Philippine Consulate drove in from Los Angeles and delivered some kind and grateful words, both for the exhibit and for CANVAS' Pacific Rim Park Project (for which the proceeds of sales from this event is intended).

We served Filipino fare for guests to sample and enjoy.

All in all, a very nice and successful event that we hope to repeat soon and often. :-)