Filipino Artworks Featured at Society of Foreign Consuls-New York’s Centennial Anniversary Kickoff
NEW YORK, 13 January 2025 – The Society of Foreign Consuls in New York (SoFC), in partnership with the Consulate General of the Kingdom of Morocco and the Moroccan National Tourism Office, marked the beginning of its year-long centennial celebrations with the Art & Diplomacy Exhibition at The Mezzanine in Manhattan, New York. This event brought together members of the diplomatic community, New York City officials, the US Department of State’s Office of Foreign Missions (OFM), cultural leaders, and art enthusiasts in a vibrant showcase of the transformative role of art in fostering international collaboration and understanding.
Among the many notable contributions was the participation of the Philippine Consulate General, which showcased two remarkable pieces from the Philippine Center-New York’s collection: Jose Alcantara’s Sagrada Familia (1974), a wood relief sculpture embodying the strength, unity, and sanctity of family, and Dominic Rubio’s Sinukmani, a contemporary painting celebrating Filipino culture. The latter draws its name from a traditional Filipino rice cake, often shared during communal gatherings, evoking themes of togetherness and cultural heritage.
“These artworks were chosen to tell a story of the Filipino spirit,” said Consul General Senen T. Mangalile, Deputy President of SoFC. “Sagrada Familia reflects the enduring values of family and resilience, central to our identity as a people. Meanwhile, Sinukmani captures the joy and warmth of Filipino community life—shared meals, traditions, and the celebration of life’s simple yet meaningful moments. Together, these pieces demonstrate how art can bridge cultures and foster a deeper appreciation of what connects us all.”
Commissioner Edward Mermelstein, representing the New York City Mayor’s Office for International Affairs, commended the consular community for its contributions to New York’s dynamic and diverse cultural fabric, describing the city as a hub for global diplomacy and cultural exchange. Ms. Kathleen Eagen of the US Department of State’s OFM underscored the universal appeal of art, stating that it serves as “a universal language that fosters empathy and strengthens relationships between nations.”
Meanwhile, Amir Farid Abu Hasan, Consul General of Malaysia and President of SoFC, emphasized the importance of the occasion, noting that creativity and artistic expression provide a powerful means to celebrate the connections between nations and the diversity of their shared heritage. As SoFC embarks on its centennial year, he underscored the organization’s commitment to honoring its legacy and advancing its mission of fostering cooperation and goodwill among its members.
The evening also highlighted the rich cultural traditions of SoFC’s member countries through enthralling performances. Morocco’s Gnawa Music entranced the audience with its rhythmic and spiritual melodies, while Thailand’s Isan Musical Ensemble delighted guests with its lively and colorful interpretation of northeastern Thai traditions. A classical piano recital from Georgia added an elegant note, seamlessly blending technical mastery with cultural storytelling.
Other participating members included Barbados, Bulgaria, Georgia, Malaysia, Morocco, Republic of Kosovo, Serbia, South Africa, Switzerland, and Türkiye. The SoFC, established in 1925, represents the Consular Corps in New York and is considered the largest diplomatic community organization in the world. END
