I attended an Art Exhibit opening: Namnama (Hope), a four-man show at Tam-Awan Village. All I can say is: when all else fails and you feel like everything is not going right, “hope” is the only thing you can cling on to for a new day–a new beginning.
As much as I’d love to start on how my day began, the intricate details bind me to secrecy. Let’s skip that and move one hell of a roller coaster ride for a day.
Aside from literal and mind multitasking, I worried about the time and the opening. After my office tasks, they assigned me to speak/ host/ introduce the art exhibit and the artists. At first, I thought, “that would be such a fun idea!” Until I felt intimidated and unprepared. And I had nobody close to look for comfort or rescue. “Why not?” I kept repeating myself. Eliminate all visions of the people around, and imagine that you’re alone in the room, talking as usual.
And then the internet signal went bad and cut off the live feed, just like that. For a moment I thought “saved by slow connection!” but they decided to pre-record it. A few mistakes here and there, and some long pauses when I realized I needed to find the right words to say.
Advice: When introducing a personality, always add information about him or her. One reason is to avoid dead air and to feel like you know them personally even if you don’t (that is a personal preference though).
I can hear my voice shaky and uncertain and I can assure you that was one of my weaknesses publicly uncovered.
But it went on and on and you know me, awkward and distant in crowds. I prefer to be a wallflower. If I am not near your eyesight, I’m somewhere I can breathe. But most of the time I observe and listen from afar: the tone, voice, and the way words echoed into the open space. I usually jump into conversations and all but not today. This is me, still on the phase of doubt and denial that I am indeed, back in it.
The important moments of such events, the one that drives me to listen actively and talk a little or participate a bit, resides in deeper conversations. Crisp, meaningful conversations where people share their life: experiences, thoughts, feelings, emotions, and ideals. This is where I get so hungry for words and for more space in my brain to let all the information fit.
The day ended with me knowing the Namnama artists on the tip of the iceberg and a sneak peek on what is underneath. The four artists shared a piece of themselves today, be it in artworks or in words. And people may be labeled in groups, be it artists or whatnot, but they are different in terms of medium, style, and skills inside and out of the arts industry.
Hearing them speak, one at a time or everybody at the same time, their tone does not waver. I was stunned and caught off-guard with this realization that it made me ignore the fact that time is running out, for me.
From conversations about animation, portraits, and a journey with Tam-Awan Village, to airbrush, reunions, and not wanting to hurt others, to motivational talks and encouragement and leadership, to the creative process and art scenes and visions. All in the span of a few hours–all with the painful ankles hurting underneath my legs.
“Don’t rush,” Kuya Silvino, one of the Namnama artists and whom I can sense and later confirmed, standing as their leader, said. “…do not lose hope, and keep doing what you’re doing until you find your own style,” he added. “It is all in the creative process,” he continued.
True, I have heard these words before, somewhere, somehow. But they say that you may experience something over and over again, but with each experience comes a new lesson, a new realization, a new point-of-view.
The details of all the conversations…I shall share in later posts. This is too long and for now, I shall say good night or else I would not be able to stop talking…I mean writing. There is so much I want to say–I want to share.
Who would have thought a week’s worth of massive experience can happen in a day?
P.S. Thank you for the other individuals who helped me with the write-up. From grammarians to logical arguments and “you’re missing the point” moments, I am thankful for all your efforts. Will return the favor, soon. 🙂
P.P.S. This is one of those times when I regret not bringing a camera or a photographer. I had no photos of the exhibit! Hmf! I blame laziness and nervousness. Nevertheless, what I lack in photos, I compensate with words. HAHAHAHAAHHAHAHAHAHA
