Entries from two Filipina domestic helpers made the shortlist for the 2018 edition of Hong Kong Human Rights Arts Prize (KHKRAP), whose winners will be announced in the ceremonies at The Hive Spring in Aberdeen on December 8, as shared in a report by the Sun.
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Established by the Justice Centre Hong Kong, the award gives distinction to Hong Kong-based artists for touching on local and external humanitarian issues through their unique and creative interpretation through the arts. For this year’s edition, the 23 entries from 24 artists have been shortlisted from over a hundred of applicants.
Two Pinay DHs Get Shortlisted for Human Rights Art Distinctions
Gemma Abad’s dress crafted out of the all-too common straw bag (“striped bag” among OFWs) and Maureen Villanueva’s painting “Innocent Hands” are among the 23 entries that made the shortlist for the prestigious awards according to HKHRAP director Ms Katie Vadja.
Using available media ranging from film and light installations to recyclable materials, the thoughtful crafts of art represent a diversity of socially relevant themes from migration to sustainability.
This year’s winner of the HKHRAP will take home $35,000 in cash and a trophy designed by renowned HK artist Jaffa Lam.
Two runners-up will also receive cash prizes, and a Director’s Choice Award will be presented at the opening of the event’s exhibit.
Making the list of previous recipients of this distinction is a Filipina domestic helper-turned professional photographer Xyza Cruz Bacani for her winning photo collection of migrant workers.
The Camarines Norte native Abad, who has spent the last 11 years working in Hong Kong, showcases the fashionable take on the all-too familiar handy bag.
Abad’s untitled piece bears the caption: “A market bag: ordinary, common, simple and durable transformed into a new form, a new purpose.”
Meanwhile, Villanueva, a Sorsogon native, explores on the topic of sexual violence with her piece “Innocent Hands.” The piece highlights on the importance of giving protection to victims of sexual abuse.
Villanueva, who has been working in the state for the past six years as a domestic helper, had also previously worked as a musician in Malaysia and the Philippines, but moved to Hong Kong after completing a course in caregiving.
Let us support our fellow kababayan and all the artists contributing in this cause at the awarding ceremony this December 8. Ticket prices start at $250. All proceeds from the event will be donated to Justice Centre Hong Kong.
To know more about the event, you may visit their website by clicking HERE.