The Row, Glorietta 1 was abuzz with art and fashion enthusiasts last October 18, 2012 when Freeway launched their Holiday 2012 National Artist Collectors’ Series (NACS) featuring our famed muralist, Botong Francisco. It was a splendid night to celebrate fusions of Filipino talent in art and fashion from generations apart as we joined Freeway in celebrating the 100th year of National Artist Carlos “Botong V. Francisco by immortalizing his work into a wearable art.
The event started with an impressive showcase of talent in live painting and sketching as young artists aged 6 to 16 years old wowed the audience with their creations during the cocktails.
It was followed by a video presentation of the life and works of Botong Francisco and a fashion show for the 25 piece Holiday collection that was inspired by his paintings.
Graphic tees that feature artworks are fashion pieces that we may have already seen before but the unique cuts and design execution of tees in this collection sets them apart from the others. The work shirts, casual tops, tailored dresses weekend wear and accessories in the collection can make a statement on their own. You may even pair them with your citizen watches.
The show was hosted by Ms. Cherie Gil, who looked classy in a simple red dress from the Freeway collection, and graced by guests Ino Manalo, Carlos “Totong” Francisco II, and Ms. Tingting Cojuanco. Mr. Manalo is the Executive Director of the National Archives and Mr. Francisco is the grandson of our national artist. They both shared stories and trivia about Botong Francisco which gained us a better appreciation for his contribution to the arts and culture in our country.
Former Tarlac Governor, Ms. Tingting Cojuanco, as always, exuded elegance and style in her outfit for the event. I loved the look that she created from an artsy Freeway top, paired with an aqua skirt and accented with a statement belt and earrings.

My friends and I loved the informative show highlighted by vibrant and stunning fashion pieces that I’d love to add to my wardrobe. Fashion lovers who would like to know more about the collection can visit Freeway’s official website or like Freeway Online on Facebook.