The Art Gallery by The Manila Hotel proudly presents Flowers of May, a vibrant and uplifting exhibition by acclaimed Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor. The exhibit pays homage to the beloved Flores de Mayo festival, a time-honored celebration of beauty, devotion, and renewal.

Following the contemplative tone of his recent Kuwaresma series, Baldemor now shifts to a more joyful expression of spirit and color. In Flowers of May, Baldemor breathes life into the season’s blooms through his distinctive visual style, capturing the richness of Philippine flora, serving as both subject and metaphor.

“One can achieve tranquility by recognizing themselves as part of nature and finding their core or soul. Flowers are a perfect example as they represent peace and love. They have their own language of diplomacy that speaks straight to our hearts,” shared Baldemor.

The exhibit invites guests to experience joy and serenity, reflecting the essence of Flores de Mayo. Through this collection, Baldemor offers a visual journey that connects viewers to both cultural heritage and the quiet beauty of the natural world.

Flores de Mayo is on display at the Art Gallery until May 31, 2025. Admission is free. For interested buyers, email r.lo@themanilahotel.com.

In the artist’s own words, “In your daily life, you may sometimes be filled with tension. One cannot find peace in one’s own mind. In this state, you tend to lose sight of yourself, lost in an illusion of constant change and pressure. Through looking at nature and seeing yourself as part of it, one can find one’s center or soul and be at peace. A simple flower is a perfect example of this; it is centered and has a center of peace and tranquility you can take into yourself. Flowers are universal and a symbol of love and peace. They speak directly to our hearts and have their own secret and unspoken language of diplomacy.” – Manuel D. Baldemor