A Deep Dive into Ceramic Mastery with Ascott Makati as they celebrate Filipino Craftsmanship

I was utterly amazed by the sheer detail and craftsmanship evident in every single ceramic piece on display. Jon and Tessy Pettyjohn, pioneers of contemporary Philippine ceramics, truly showcased their mastery. Their personal collection, spanning the last decade, featured works that beautifully blurred the lines between art and function. 

I particularly admired Tessy’s ‘Star Trek’ piece, a challenging porcelain form resembling the iconic Federation logo, and Jon's ‘Anagama Dance’ series, with its subtle, natural ash glaze achieved through a remarkable three-day firing process. The way fire itself became a painter was simply mesmerizing.

The Pettyjohns' passion for their craft, and their willingness to mentor others, has clearly cultivated a vibrant ceramic art community, and it was a privilege to witness the fruits of their dedication firsthand.

The Intricate Art of Puni Folding

The Puni art, meaning "to decorate or beautify" in Tagalog, was another highlight that left me in awe. This traditional art of weaving, folding, or braiding leaves, formally taught in Malolos, Bulacan, was brought to life by Punique Handicrafts and Puni de Malolos. Jonnah Garcia's Punique Handicrafts, a social enterprise empowering female weavers, presented an innovative approach to this traditional craft. I was fascinated by how they transformed Puni from its traditional forms into contemporary fashion accessories, bridal bouquets, and home décor.

During the event, I even had the chance to try my hand at Puni weaving, and I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed the art of folding. There was a competitive spirit within me, and I was determined to create the best one possible, focusing on every intricate fold to achieve a clean, elegant design. 

The detailed handwoven components, inspired by nature's patterns like roses, dandelions, and lilies, along with leaf and bead accents, were simply stunning. It was a hands-on experience that truly deepened my appreciation for the meticulous work involved.

A Platform for Filipino Talent

It’s incredibly heartening to see hotels like Ascott creating a platform for these talented Filipino artists. Their collaboration with Puni de Malolos, spearheaded by Tourism Officer Marichelle Bernardo, to train their Housekeeping team in Puni art is a brilliant initiative to integrate this beautiful tradition into the guest experience. Bernardo’s passion for preserving and sharing Filipino talents resonated deeply, reminding us of our duty to uphold the rich traditions passed down through generations.

The opening cocktail gathering on May 29 was a fantastic opportunity to witness this beautiful fusion of ceramics and Puni, meet the artisans, and even try the craft myself. "Likha: Ceramics and Puni" will be on display until June 29, 2025, at Ascott Makati’s hotel lobby, with select pieces available for purchase. I highly recommend visiting to experience the extraordinary talent and dedication of these Filipino artists.