Before there was Michael Cinco, Rajo Laurel, Francis Libiran, and Monique Lhuillier, the Philippines had fashion pioneer Ramon Valera.

Valera, the country’s first and only National Artist for Fashion Design to date, is celebrated through an exhibit called “Valera and the Modern: An Exhibit on the Life and Work of National Artist for Fashion Design, Ramon Valera,” curated by Benilde’s Campus Art Director Architect Gerry Torres.

The exhibit currently illuminates the 12th floor amphitheater of the School of Design and Arts (SDA) with Valera’s Filipiniana designs and traditional ternos. It also displays Valera’s beginnings and shows a timeline of his life when his vision flourished and ultimately made him the fashion icon he is today.

Known for his craftsmanship and ingenuity, Valera took the art of fashion design and rendered his own method of showing the beauty and elegance of the Filipino woman. His intricate gowns took fashion standards to another level, later proudly worn by notable Filipinas, mostly first ladies and Manila’s elite, such as Gloria Romero, Barbara Perez, and Imelda Marcos.

In addition to Valera’s actual pieces, the exhibit also shows the interpretation of ID 113 seniors of the College’s Fashion Design and Marketing program of the late designer’s works.

Born in 1912, Valera finished his secondary education in De La Salle and was recognized as a Distinguished Lasallian in 2007 by the De La Salle Alumni Association. He died in 1972 at the age of 59.

Today, he is not only an inspiration to a fresh breed of fashion designers, but also to anyone who dedicates their life to one’s craft. Valera’s creations are an example of unparalleled virtuosity, stirring the young minds of aspiring artists to go beyond their capabilities.

The exhibit runs until October 14 at SDA’s 12th floor gallery. Admission is free and open to the public.

Photos by Inah Maravilla