Three former Bahrain residents are set to showcase their artistic talents at an upcoming art exhibition in the US, starting next Monday, June 8.
The Art of Belonging: Narrative of Filipinos in America will be held at the Philippines Consulate in San Francisco and will include the works of former residents Catherine Paje, Butch Paje and Father Peter Ronald Eugenio.
“This exhibition aims to celebrate the experiences, identities, and cultural journeys of Filipino and Filipino-American artists by highlighting stories of belonging, resilience, and cultural heritage,” Catherine, 54, who lives in Nevada, told GulfWeekly.
Catherine, the lead organiser for the exhibition, lived in Bahrain for 15 years, working as a teacher from 2008 to 2023.
Her
piece Shared Vision, done with acrylic on canvas, was created in honor
of the 80th anniversary of Philippines-US diplomatic relations.
“The works are layered with symbolism that represents unity and identity,” Catherine explained.
“My artistic practice was profoundly shaped during my 15 years of teaching art and exhibiting my works in Bahrain.
“Bahrain became an important part of my creative and professional journey.
“This
wonderful country provided me with a nurturing environment where I was
able to refine my artistic voice and expand my perspective as both an
artist and educator.
“It also opened opportunities for me to mentor and inspire emerging artists from diverse cultural backgrounds.
“Now
that I am in the US, these experiences strengthened my commitment to
using art as a bridge between communities and as a platform for
storytelling, cultural preservation, and creative expression.”
Meanwhile,
Butch, who worked in Bahrain from 2004 to 2024, was inspired by
national heroes of the Philippines, including Jose Rizal, Marcelo del
Pilar, and Mariano Ponce, key figures in the country’s reform movement.
His two sketches, done with a ballpoint pen on paper, explore the intensity of their ideals and their enduring impact.
“Through
my creative process, I combined personal reflection, historical
admiration, and my experiences as a Filipino living and working in
Bahrain,” the 59-year-old former showroom designer who also lives in
Nevada, added.
“During my 20 years in Bahrain, my art evolved into a
stronger expression of nationalism, identity, and cultural pride –
transforming my works not only into visual art, but also into a tribute
to resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of being Filipino
wherever I may be.”
Father Peter, who lived in Bahrain from 2014 to
2021, has showcased some of his photographs depicting the caring nature
of Filipino caregivers, as shown through their hands.
Reflecting the
‘deep values of empathy, sacrifice, and service that Filipinos bring to
communities around the world’, the clasped hands symbolise comfort,
dignity and human connection.
“Many Filipinos in the US work in the
medical field as nurses, caregivers, and healthcare professionals,” the
65-year-old, who lives in Burlingame, added.
“Inspired by their
compassion, dedication, and healing touch, I developed the concept of
‘Filipinos’ Caring Hands, Healing Touch,’ which became the foundation of
my work.”
The exhibition runs until June 19.
