Waraynon contemporary artist Dante Enage has been chosen to represent the Philippines at the 10th Beijing International Art Biennale (BIAB 2025), a major milestone that places Filipino visual art on one of the world’s largest international stages.
After undergoing a rigorous three-level jury selection, Enage will exhibit his work at the Beijing Exhibition Center from December 29, 2025, to January 28, 2026.
The Beijing International Art Biennale, held every two years and organized by the China Artists Association, is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious global art events, drawing artists from dozens of countries and thousands of visitors.
The 2025 edition carries the theme “Coexistence,” highlighting the complex relationship between humanity, culture, and the natural environment in a rapidly changing world.
Enage will present Patterned Paradise 1, a large-scale acrylic painting on canvas measuring 133 by 265 centimeters.
The work reflects his signature visual language, rich in detail, layered symbolism, and cultural references.
At its core are Pintados tattoo patterns, ancient designs historically associated with early Visayan warriors, which serve as a visual anchor to his roots.
These motifs are fused with Baybayin, the pre-colonial Philippine writing system, reimagined through a contemporary aesthetic.
Environmental elements also figure prominently in the painting. Birds, foliage, and abstract structures coexist across the canvas, suggesting harmony while subtly pointing to the fragility of natural ecosystems.
“In Patterned Paradise, I create a dreamlike sanctuary,” Enage said. “It is a celebration of beauty in detail, where birds and cultural echoes coexist to evoke both serenity and wonder.”
Originally from Tacloban City, Leyte, Enage’s selection for BIAB represents a defining moment in his post-pandemic career. In recent years, he moved to Manila to seek broader artistic exposure and more challenging platforms.
The transition proved pivotal, as his work began gaining traction both locally and internationally.
In December 2025, Enage mounted his 16th solo exhibition at Art Camp Gallery in Makati, further solidifying his standing in the Philippine contemporary art scene.
Earlier in the year, he also participated in World Art Dubai, one of the Middle East’s largest international art fairs.
His expanding résumé includes exhibitions in Malaysia, Indonesia, France, and Italy, underscoring his growing global reach.
By joining BIAB 2025, Enage follows in the footsteps of other Filipino artists who have previously represented the country at the Biennale, including Dennis Montera, Maximino Balatbat II, Cristina Taniguchi, Samuel Penaso, and Bong Perez.
His inclusion continues this tradition of Filipino excellence in international art forums.
As Enage brings Patterned Paradise 1 to Beijing, he carries with him not only personal artistic ambition but also the stories, symbols, and heritage of the Filipino people, reaffirming the country’s creative voice on the world stage.
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