Freeway National Artist Collectors' Series 2016 Pays Tribute to Abdulmari Imao

I've been a fan of Freeway's National Artist Collectors' Series ever since the F. Sionil Jose Collection was launched in 2011. The pieces they always came up with have very nice designs that beautifully incorporate each artist's specialty.

the Freeway x Imao collection features vibrant colors
inspired by Imao's adaptation of Muslim motifs
such as ukkil, sarimanok, pakorabong, and naga

This year, Freeway pays tribute to the first and only Moro honored as National Artist of the Philippines to date. Named National Artist for Sculpture in 2006, Abdulmari Imao was not only a sculptor but also a painter, ceramist, photographer, film maker, and writer. 

two of Imao's legacies

Known as a patron of Philippine Muslim Art and Culture, Imao had his own unique adaptation of traditional Muslim motifs such that his artworks exude a strong sense of nationalism and passion for his culture and heritage. Clearly, he made pieces that are fine examples of unity through diversity. 

visit Freeway's website to see all the breathtaking designs in the collection

Freeway once more revolutionizes the meaning of fashionalism with a lavishly beautiful 40 piece collection that includes casual and dressy tops, graphic tees, jumpsuits, and dresses. The pieces range from casual to semi-formal with rich colored sublimation print dresses and tops that can be worn from day to night affairs, which the modern Filipina will definitely enjoy wearing.

artworks by Toym Imao depicting stages in his father's life

Featuring woven fabrics, soft materials, and comfortable stretch fabric that flatter the figure, the collection immortalizes Imao's amazing sense of beauty and creativity. Aside from the clothes, Freeway also offers unique and memorable gift items in the forms of canvas bags, fans, scarves, and more. 

Lexi interviewing Toym and Duffie Hufana Osental, Editor in Chief of Art+ Magazine

The Freeway x Imao Collection was recently launched at The Row in Glorietta where the vibrant collection was presented via a fashion show. The event, hosted by Lexi Schulze, also featured an exhibit by Toym Imao, Abdulmari's son, where guests got to know more about the National Artist's life via three-dimensional structures that were displayed along with Imao's signature sculptures and paintings courtesy of Galleria Nicolas (showroom located at Glorietta IV). 

awarding of winners of this year's Freeway Art Bag Design Contest

Winners of the latest Freeway Art Bag Design Contest were also presented at the event. Dondon Cerbito and Leah Liza Advincula took home prizes for Bugan and La Filipiniana Terno, respectively. Both bags and the Freeway x Imao collection are available at all Freeway and The Row branches nationwide. You may also shop online at freewayonline.com.ph or through www.zalora.com.ph. 

Freeway's bio-tag with information about Abdulmari Imao
and the Freeway National Artist Collectors' Series gift packaging

Each item from the collection will have a National Artist gift packaging and a bio-tag where one can learn more about the life and works of Imao. This special wrapping makes for a perfect gift that blends art, history, and fashion to those who know how to appreciate them. For updates and more information, LIKE FreewayOnline on Facebook and follow @FreewayOnline on Twitter and Instagram.