Cary Santiago: Iconic collection from an icon
Cary Santiago is not just a fashion designer. To call him just that is an injustice to the profound works of art that he creates.
He is an artist whose creations make us think, wonder, ponder, imagine, laugh, perhaps even cry out of joy. Yes, his works elicit emotions—of happiness, of excitement, of pride—because here, at last, is a visionary who contributes to our heritage.
Cary is fearless in his creativity, and yet his unbridled passion allows no excesses. There is always dignity and elevation of craftsmanship in what he does. We saw this in the recent TernoCon where he depicted national icons—Jose Rizal, Sto. Nino, mangoes, bahay kubo, carabao, anahaw, sampaguita, bangus, jeepney, saranggola, and the song Bayang Magiliw. He breathed life into these symbols in three-dimensional clothes in patriotic colors of red, white, blue and yellow.
“These colors are not my DNA,” says Cary, who is more into dark and muted hues. “But I took these specified colors as a challenge.”
Cary explains the process: “First, I do sketches, then all the pieces are built in the mannequin. Then I make patterns for each, several samples which I mostly drape in the mannequin, which is called moulage. Then I have a technique which I call ‘fabric tiles’ where I mold and wrap with fabric all the puzzle-like pieces to come up with the image I had in mind.”
Cary Santiago unveils “Ikonograpiya,” a collection inspired by the Philippine flag and iconic national symbols.
Cary Santiago unveils “Ikonograpiya,” a collection inspired by the Philippine flag and iconic national symbols.
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The reward he aims for is the ability “to uplift our culture and enrich our heritage.”
Did I hear a culture stalwart say that Cary Santiago can be a future candidate for National Artist?