DMC-Baldemor Collaboration

Turning Baldemor's brush-strokes to needlepoint work 

 By Earl D.C. Bracamonte 

 "Tenui filo magnum texitur opus!" - "From one thread, another work of art is born!” 

With the success of last year's releases, DMC continues partnership with internationally-renowned artist Manuel Baldemor. To continue its tradition of being market leaders, DMC collaborated anew with the celebrated artist, whose paintings were rendered into cross-stitch patterns. 

With this effort, hobbyists bring to life the intricacies of a painting's features while highlighting the exceptional qualities of needlecraft. Partnership with the artist started in 2009 when DMC launched two cross-stitched renditions of his paintings: Good Harvest and Fruits of Labor. The patterns were such a huge hit that the brand brought Baldemor closer to the people by creating an opportunity for hobbyists to have their finished works signed by the artist himself. 

This year, Baldemor shares two more of his paintings – Pahiyas Festival and Season of Hope. Both works are characteristic of Filipino culture. “We love to celebrate and through celebrations, people come together to show their warmth, hospitality and appreciation,” shared the artist during a media huddle. 

The Pahiyas Festival, a detail in 36” x 60” painting, is turned into an impressive scaled-down 20” x 26” cross-stitch design. Pahiyas is one of the summer fiesta celebrations in the Philippines and a good portrayal of how local customs are celebrated. It is a thanksgiving of the people from Quezon province in which they showcase abundant resources and produce, like rice, which households turn into the very colorful kiping decorations. 

Season of Hope, on the other hand, a 36” x 48” painting, is depicted marvelously into another scaled-down 24” x 23” needlepoint design. It deals with the more universal year-end celebration: Yuletide! It brings people together to celebrate the birth of Jesus and the promise of salvation from Him. This joyous season brings with it the general feeling of positivity. Most people just feel good and upbeat, no matter what circumstances they're in. 

In this collaboration, Manuel Baldemor believes that this undertaking will help bring his art to the people. He lets every piece reflect his interpretation of life and he shares this with them. He reaches out to the hobbyists while at the same time, DMC provides him with a new outlet to continue and extend his passion. He brings forth the cultural and artistic aspects of the needlepoint craft which the brand hopes to prosper. It is bridging both the artistic and cultural sensibilities of artist and stitcher. For over two and a half centuries, DMC has been leading the needlecraft market with excellent service towards its consumers.

Their products offer an extensive color range that's also known for their quality. Its global distribution structure is available in 130 countries worldwide. The brand also has specialized threads with features that allow for a more creative and distinctive feel to the cross-stitched work. Bringing out its versatility, it produces metallic, light effects, variegated and satin variations of thread; with more than 400 skillfully graduated shades to choose from in every category. 

A fortnight ago, Baldemor showcased the new DMC designs in his European exhibits at both cities of Helsinki, Finland and Lisbon, Portugal to highlight Philippine culture in commemoration of the Philippine Independence Day. It was the first time that Filipino cross-stitch designs were featured in a Baldemor Art Exhibit in Europe. The revered artist has been invited by the European and Philippine diplomatic circles to showcase Filipino art, of which cross-stitch is now a new medium. 

To further introduce to peoples the novelty of cross-stitching artists' masterpieces, he is showcasing cross-stitched works on his on-going exhibition tours in Europe 'til August. To get hold of Manuel Baldemor's Pahiyas Festival and Season of Hope cross-stitch patterns and other DMC products, visit craft stores nationwide. Donations will be given to UNICEF for every purchase of the patterns in behalf of Mr. Baldemor. He is the artist whose works are printed on UNICEF greeting cards worldwide for over 18 years now. The artist also moonlights as sculptor, writer and illustrator. He is a man who thirsts for an evolving exploration of his art and continues to embody Filipino culture through his trademark folk art and simplified geometric forms. 

Aside from embroidery thread, DMC continuously comes out with stitch pattern designs to inspire hobbyists. Over the years, subjects have included landscapes, religious figures, people and still life. And as it continues to offer something new to the market, DMC also comes up with collaborations with great artists like Baldemor. DMC offers free cross-stitch lessons at Creative World in SM Megamall's Building A lower ground floor. For slot reservations, simply call 632-9978.