2023 April
Greetings! It is always great fun to connect with you. I feel like I’m talking to an old friend I dearly miss. Some things from March remained and some really picked up from there. The exhibition in Wafi Mall, Pullman Hotel and Ajman Palace is still on going and more and more people are noticing my art. Ramadan atmosphere is still very present although eating and drinking outside is tolerated already. Dubai is a tourist city after all and restrictions can scare money away. With regards to arts - calligraphy, twirling Darvish and mosque subjects are prevalent. They give this solemn vibe to a room. You feel like you need to talk and dress modestly, act like a virgin and use subtle colors on everything. It doesn’t suit me well but I love a change from time to time.
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April 7 was my birthday, as expected there will be drama. I received hundreds of greetings and messages but when you are far you feel more alone. And when alone you tend to overthink about your frustrations in life. Setting a high standard for yourself has its advantages and disadvantages.
There was this event involving 25 artists, 25 special kids to create 25 canvases of paintings to put together as a puzzle. As many of you know I was mentored by an artist who has a hearing disability. This event was my way of giving back the feat God gave me in this art journey. But a friend of mine really wanted to attend, she was adamant even after I said it was exclusive. So, I gave her my slot. I guess giving her the chance to join is also a good thing to do on my birthday.
The next day, high school friends bought a cake and sang happy birthday for me. It was sweet considering the last time we have seen each other was 10 years ago. Those people you grew up together were like brothers and sisters. No matter how long or how far, the love is still there.
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Earlier this April, I joined Fearless Fab Flamingo (How pretty is the name!) It’s a community of UAE’s Leading Filipino Women Business Owners & Professionals. It’s like your local Lion’s Club but pink, fun and fab! Their goal is to create opportunities, gain visibility, business support and social network. They uplift and help each other’s businesses. The iftar dinner was so enjoyable. The members make you feel like you can be the best in whatever you do. Not in a cult-like manner but you get to have conversations and be inspired about the struggles and successes of Filipino ladies who have shops, clinics and restaurants in the UAE. This group has 160+ members, that’s Pinoy pride in there.
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My social media, mostly Facebook is getting exciting now. It has 4000+ followers and very interactive. I feel loved even by artists from other places. I monetized it and plans to post proper art contents. Maybe instructional with a bit of travel stories but definitely inspirational because 80% of the followers are young artists.
Speaking of social media content, I attended a workshop by Suzette Peachie a renowned photographer and videographer here in Dubai (and my college classmate). I’m taking this vlogging seriously…really.
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Last but not the least, what created the Facebook buzz is this – I will be a part of the International Contemporary 100 Best Artists Book and for 2023 Encyclopedia Artist Book. Super super cool. I am so giddy ecstatic but should act meh about it to appear professional hahahah.
I guess I should start focusing on creating art for the next days. Less on partying, it’s still Ramadan friends.
Xoxo,
Nelly