PHILIPPINES – AUGUST 2011 – Even storms and heavy rains weren’t able to stop thousands of graphics aficionados from attending the sixth Graphika Manila last July 30. Now on its sixth year, the event bowed out with a bang after playing host to a record-breaking 3,000 delegates at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.
The event did not disappoint by serving a smorgasbord of world-renowned industry experts, exclusive graphic footage, and even exciting raffle prizes. “This year was a mix of digital, graphics, post-production – a little of everything. We want to keep it holistic so the whole community can join and and just be inspired in as many ways as possible,” explained Aram Beheshti, organizer of Graphika Manila.
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From L to R: Graphika Manila speakers Kevin Andrew Smith (Weta Digital), PJ Richardson (Laundry!), Mike Friolo (Nike), Seph Mayol, Dan Matutina, and Katwo and Nico Puertollano (27+20)
World-class graphic and motion artists from the Philippines and abroad were also on speaker duties. Local creatives Nico and Katwo Puertollano of 27+20 kicked off the series of talks with a practical step-by-step tutorial. “Creativity is not the pursuit of art,” said Nico as he began. The couple presented their design process and revealed their tools. Independent visual artist DanMatutina, also of Ideals Creatives, described his journey in illustration through chapters. Cebu-based digital developer Seph Mayol gave a tour of his web work and initiatives; Nike’s Pacquiao genius Mike Friolo let the crowd in on the back stories of the boxer’s apparel. PJ Richardson was also on-site to represent Laundry!, a Los Angeles-based design and animation studio that has worked with Nike, Virgin, and MTV, to name a few.
Still, the highlight of the event was Weta Digital’s Kevin Andrew Smith, who clued in delegates on one of the most astounding wonders of modern cinema – Avatar. As the film’s digital effects supervisor, Smith gamely shared never before-seen footage that chronicled how the blockbuster got its signature, composite look. He also advised attending students to work on their Math, think animated, and most importantly, develop the right attitude. “Criticism isn’t a slur on your ability. It’s just a call for change to improve the work in front you,” he said.
Last but definitely not least, the up-and-coming National Design Council Initiative took center stage through proponents Jowee Alviar of Team Manila, design management expert Brian Tenorio, and Senator TG Guingona’s creative director Arianne Serafico. A new logo also debuted on-stage for the first time, signifying progress in the group’s goals of transforming graphic design into a government-funded, and recognized top industry.
