Artist Nelia Fabia from Albay has carved out an artistic presence on the international art scene as she represented the Philippines under the prestigious UNESCO Arts Connects Women (ACW) event from March 5-8 in Dubai.
Her Barbie painting concept helped her stand out among 800 applicants. Fabia caught the eye of ZeeArts Gallery, the organizers of the event, earning her a spot among 108 women artists representing their own countries.
Aside from being a painter, Fabia is also an architect who has resided in Dubai since 2007, which is why her art works influence her technical approach to painting. Her subjects often revolve around themes of healing, nature, hope, and the zest for life.
Fabia also enjoys using cloud effects in the background by splashing paint. Whether she is working on canvas or murals, Fabia aims to evoke emotions and add a unique twist to her visual stories.
Fabia’s passion for art drove her to participate actively in exhibitions and live painting events in the United Arab Emirates. According to Fabia, she finds inspiration for her paintings in cultural expectations and exaggerated ideas of beauty.
She explores how people chase after a certain image, comparing the luxurious aspects of city life to a modern interpretation.
“Vanity typically revolves around one’s appearance, self-perception, and conduct. Unrealistic beauty ideals impose pressure to conform to a specific image. The opulence, social scene, and affluence of our cities epitomize a modern-day Barbieland,” she said.
The four-day event brought these women from various cultures together to showcase their creativity. Each artist’s work was featured in the annual art book titled ‘Women Artists Around the World,’ which is now in its fifth volume, ensuring that their legacy is preserved for future generations.
Aside from the art exhibit, a conference took place where industry experts led discussions on ‘Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges: Women in Creativity and Financial Inclusion’ and hosted a cultural tour for participating artists at the Ajman Museum, showcasing Emirati heritage, culture, and hospitality—adding a cultural dimension to the event.
The event was in line with the celebration of International Women’s Day, which aims to provide optimal representation for women in the art sector while empowering them to reach new heights globally.
Art enthusiasts may find Fabia’s paintings on her website (neliafabia.com), where one can see paintings that are known for a special vignette effect that creates a dreamy or nostalgic feel.| Alliah Jane Babila