Manila Standard Today
December 11, 2007
From afar, it looks like some fancy Christmas decorations made from imported materials, masterly designed with distinct attention to details. When you look closely though, you will realize that the hanging Christmas decors are handcrafts made of old newspapers and metals, creatively cut and painted with sheer precision to give it a uniform look and incorporated with other light but inexpensive materials to complete the whole impression of a classy Christmas decoration…. pure art. These collection of hanging sceptres, made by prominent paper artist and product designer Tes Pasola, now adorn the lobby and hallways of Hyatt hotel and Casino,
The exhibit, dubbed as Christmas Impressions at Hyatt, is not just another profitable social display. The event was held in time for the holiday season, to celebrate the spirit of giving and making wishes come true, especially for indigent children.
Kythe Foundation, a non-profit organization which dedicated in helping pediatric cancer patients, and Make-A-Wish Foundation, who helps children with life-threatening medical conditions, are the beneficiaries of the proceeds generated from the exhibit.
Pasola, a member of the prestigious Movement 8, a group of home accessories and furniture designers, globally recognized for their modern pieces, was commissioned by Hyatt hotel to make the decorations. On her part, Pasola believes in the spirit of sharing, and was much more inspired by Hyatt’s dedication in helping charity organizations. She immediately had the yearning to make similar socio-civic initiatives but with more focus on the environment.
“I was inspired by the success of Hyatt’s corporate social responsibility programs. I felt the decision to use paper, specifically newspaper [because] it was in line with the rationale of conversation, expressed through the practice of recycling. “said Pasola, who also owns Mind Masters, Inc. a company that exports paper-based products.
Former first lady, and a known advocate of beauty, Imelda Marcos was immediately awed by the brilliance and exquisite design of Pasola’s recycled Christmas decors. She applauds the 35-year-old paper designer in the project that turns waste into something beautiful.
“I really feel that if you see God everywhere, you will see beauty even in junk,” said the former governor of Manila, who is still very regal with her “recycled gowns”. Marcos also made use of her recycled old accessories and clothing to create a jewelry collection selling at very affordable prices. “I think the message here is that, if we recycle all the junk that humanity has produced, we can make a beautiful world together,” added the former dictator’s wife.
Through this project, the hotel hopes to encourage the spirit of kindness, sharing and hope by volunteering time and resources to both charities. Aside from its charitable cause, Hyatt also wants to convey the message of nature’s preservation to people.
“We seek to play our part in creating awareness in the community of the fragile state of the environment. That is why we joined forces with Tes Pasola, who focuses on how products and materials can be reused and recycled into world-class work of arts,” says Gottfried Bogensperger, Hyatt’s general manager.
During the launching, a candle lighting also took place, led by Mrs. Marcos, Pasola and Bogensperger. A dinner followed at the Lili Restaurant, where diners would be greeted by a giant leafless Christmas tree made of paper sceptres.
“The display is in the public place, where a wide variety of people can view it, making it more interesting and inspirational. The intention and purpose of this project is therefore shared, and made accessible to a broader audience which makes it more meaningful and fulfilling,” added Pasola. The Christmas Impression collection paper sceptres ranges from P250 to P750 depending on the sizes while the Votive Genie Holder with Tea Light Candle costs P300.
The Christmas Impression will be on display at Hyatt Hotel and Casino throughout the whole holiday season, located at 1588 Pedro Gil cor. M.H. Del Pilar, Malate, Manila with tel. no. 245-1243.
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