TOKYO – Filipino-French actress, model, and artist Solenn Heussaff is pushing forward by showcasing her artwork in Japan for the first time, marking her debut in an exhibition in the country.
“For me, it’s really about meeting new people. I’ve lived in Manila my whole life, and I always find interest in discovering new cultures and being challenged by new things,” she told the Filipino-Japanese Journal (FJJ).
Heussaff is one of the 13 artists whose works are being showcased at “FINOPINAS,” a special exhibit featuring the Philippines’ finest in art and design, ranging from sustainable fashion to stunning interiors, accessories, and contemporary visual arts by emerging and award-winning Filipino artists and designers.
“I was really honored when they asked me to showcase here, especially because we’re representing Filipino artists. I am among many people I look up to, so it’s really nice to be among them,” she said.
Her artwork, titled “Ambivalence,” revolves around the theme about the Philippines.
“It’s because, as Filipinos, we don’t really know who we are or where we come from. We have such a diverse population—we’re very mixed. The colors are very bright to show the resilience we have as a community because no matter what we go through, Filipinos are always smiling, always have a fighting spirit. I added piña and abaca hanging to represent the roots of the Filipino people. I also used abaca because it’s a local fabric, so I wove all of that together,” she shared.
Known for her art in social realism, Heussaff revealed that she changed her style due to motherhood.
“It’s been three years since my last exhibit. I’ve been working hard to find a new route, and I think I’ve found it. I’m excited for people to see it,” she enthused.
For Heussaff, this event is her introduction to Japan. She is hopeful it will lead to something bigger, like participating in the Tokyo Art Fair.
“That’s the dream! That’s why I’m here—even if just one-fourth of my painting gets in, just to get a foot in the door,” she gushed.
Heussaff has previously exhibited in the U.S., and held various exhibits in the Philippines. Come December, she will showcase her work again, this time with her bestfriend Olivia d’Aboville, who is also part of the “FINOPINAS” event.
Other artists whose works are being showcased at the exhibit include Andres Barrioquinto, Arturo Sanchez Jr., Brave Singh, Clark Manalo, Is Jumalon, John Marin, Kim Hamilton Sulit, Lotsu Manes, Lui Gonzales, Mark Rocha Padernal, and Renato Barja Jr. “FINOPINAS” is open to the public until Sept. 15 at the Tokyo Midtown Design Hub. - Florenda Corpuz
