Following the phenomenal success of his “Faaabvlous” series, international award-winning portrait photographer Rupert Jacinto, dubbed “Photographer to the Faabulous” by the Washington Post, once again launched his latest collection of photographic art in a stunning celebration of a photo exhibit and a book launch. This was held last week at the Gallery and at a black tie Faaabvlous Ball at the Rigodon Ballroom of the Peninsula Manila respectively.
Rupert’s love for the arts is evident in his ongoing photo exhibit, “Faaabvlous VIII,” with 60 portraits and works of art displayed at the 3rd floor Gallery of the Peninsula Manila. The ribbon cutting at the gallery was officiated by The Peninsula Manila GM Mark Choon. Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, National Artist Francisco Sionil Jose, and Arsenio ‘Nick’ Lizaso, president of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, together with the 2017 Faaabvlous Icons, Tingting Cojuangco, Criselda Lontok, and Ingrid Santamaria. Unveiling the coffee table book facsimiles at the ‘Gods of Egypt’ Black & White Charity Ball were Ambassador Effie Matityau of Israel and Ambassador Ahmed Ezzat of Egypt, together with the book cover ladies Linda Legaspi Rosal, Maru Go, Buena Sarmiento, and Avon Morales.
Known for his classic elegance in portraiture, Rupert has an exceptional eye, honed with the capacity to surprise with his creativity. With allure and magnetism, his portraits express the beauty and inimitable style of his subjects more faithfully than words. Rupert always seeks to be progressive and his diadems area sight to behold. His art elevates the subject into the realm of fantasy, which is expressive and grand.
There was joyful energy that ricocheted off the walls of the Rigodon Ballroom as the guests marvelled at the splendid Egyptian motif designed by multifaceted designer JunJun Ablaza. With the majority of the women in Egyptian inspired gowns, it was exciting to experience the feel of that glorious era. It was an unparalleled experience for the 2017 subjects. The smile on their faces mirrored the moment – of experiencing an unforgettable time. Donned in their finest, they were each presented with a trophy and a book, the recognition forever immortalized in the coffee table book. No minimalist fashion during that convivial feast but the majority embraced adornment to win the prize for the best in black, in white, and black and white. The Star of the Night award went to Crystal Jacinto. During dinner, Jonathan Wagner rendered two songs accompanied by Danny Favis and the Fabulous band. Acclaimed master of ceremonies Johnny Litton made the festivities all the more enjoyable with his candid greetings and witty jokes. He manned the auction of an amazing amber sculpture by Ramon Orlina, which was won by Bert and Nonie Basilio.
Co-presented by The Advertising Foundation of the Philippines, the event was in support of the advocacies of the Ad Foundation and for the Love-a-Parish Program of the Sto. Nino de Paz Chapel under Rev. Fr. Jun Sescon. The exhibit runs up to Dec. 5 at the Pen Gallery where the Faaabvlous VIII books are available for sale. Faaabvlous VIII was presented with the sponsorship of The Peninsula Manila, Titania Wine Cellar, Liquid Gold, Globe Platinum, Stores Specialists, Inc. Kandaya Resort, RJ100, MaxiOne Production, and Rey Ortiz Digital Printing and Photography.
