In 2016, Danabelle had the opportunity of performing her poetry in the Emirates Literature Festival, making her the only Filipino in the festival’s long and impressive lineup of wordsmiths. She considers the launch and exhibit of ‘& Until The Dreams Come’ at FN Designs Gallery last November 2015 as her proudest moment. Danabelle says, “I’m proud of how the show and the book was received, but moreover, I am proud of how we were even able to do it at all.”

Photo by Alex Callueng; Photography Assistant – Bethoven Filomeno Special thanks to – Giordano, Nikon, Liali Jewellery, Lulu, Mitsubishi and Western Union.

I celebrate the uniqueness of my Philippine heritage and I believe that art is not a self-indulgent vocation but a way to educate people. When I design, I infuse narrative about the rich heritage of Philippine culture. I want to open the world’s perception of who Filipinos are and what we are capable of.

Illustrado Fashion Editorial: In the Mood for Love PHOTOGRAPHER: Irvin Rivera / graphicsmetropolis.com MODELS: Kendall Galan @No Ties Jesse Somera @Photogenics PRODUCTION MANAGER: Ryan Domigpe PRODUCTION ASST: Francis Gum ASST PHOTOGRAPHERS: Darwin Abad Ben Kui STYLIST: James Juarez ASST STYLIST: Victor Jonas MAKE-UP ARTIST: Tokiko Inoue HAIRSTYILIST: Nina Jo VIDEOGRAPHER/EDITOR: Manuel Quintanilla / cinematikartizan.com FASHION: …

Darwin Guevarra had tough times in breaking through Dubai’s competitive arts circle. However, his creative mind, talented hands and passion for the arts strengthened him to pursue his great lovebeyond challenges. Now, a recognized artist in the emirates, Japat’s masterpieces has opened a space not only for himself, but where Filipino artists would be accepted, respected and honored.