February 1, 2025 — The Philippine Consulate in Vancouver is proud to host an exhibition of paintings by acclaimed artist Charlie Frenal. The exhibition opened on January 13 and will be on display until June of this year. It offers visitors a glimpse into Frenal's vibrant artistry and dedication to Filipino heritage.
In her opening remarks, Consul General Dr. Gina A. Jamoralin emphasized the event's significance: “Today, we celebrate not just art but also the creativity and cultural pride that Charlie brought with him when he came to Canada. His work reflects the talent and artistry of Filipino artists. Art is a powerful tool of expression, a bridge that connects us to our roots, and a means to share our stories with others.”
Charlie Frenal: Bridging Cultures Through Art and Heritage
Frenal earned his Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Mindanao in Davao City. His passion for art has been evident from a young age, as he won numerous art contests in the Philippines. Although he describes himself as a self-taught artist, his architectural training has undoubtedly refined his skills and contributed to his career success.
Since moving to Canada in 2012, Frenal has drawn inspiration from his Filipino roots, showcasing his homeland's culture and natural beauty. He was born and raised in Polomolok, South Cotabato, a community with rich cultural diversity.
One of the exhibition's highlights is a painting titled Woman with Faglung, which Frenal presented to the Philippine Consulate. “One of the ethnic groups in our municipality is the Blaan. I painted the Woman with Faglung because I wanted to promote the rich culture of the Blaan in our hometown of Polomolok,” Frenal remarked. Inspired by the Blaan’s traditional attire and the faglung, a boat lute, Frenal skillfully captured its cultural essence. The faglung is a two-stringed musical instrument used by the Blaan Indigenous community in South Cotabato, symbolizing cultural traditions and rituals such as planting and harvesting. Its significance reflects the deep connection between music, nature, and community in Blaan culture.
This celebration of Filipino culture is a recurring theme in Frenal’s art, earning him significant acclaim in Canada and beyond. In 2021, his painting New Day (Bagong Umaga) won first place at the Federation of Canadian Artists (FCA) Annual International Mail-In Art Exhibition. That same year, he earned an honourable mention at the FCA Water Exhibition, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable artist.
Woman With Faglung by Charlie Frenal.
Over the years, Frenal has extensively showcased his works in British Columbia, participating in the Dimasalang III International Artist Group and the Federation of Canadian Artists. In 2024 alone, his works were displayed in the United States, Switzerland, and Italy. This international recognition highlights Frenal’s ability to bridge cultures and tell compelling stories through his art.
Charlie Frenal’s work exemplifies the transformative power of art, bridging cultures and preserving heritage. The exhibition at the Philippine Consulate in Vancouver is open from January to June, and visitors are encouraged to explore this vibrant collection. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Filipino artistry and experience the stories behind each painting. The exhibition is a must-visit for anyone seeking to connect with the rich tapestry of Filipino artistry and traditions.
Sandie Oreta Gillis graduated with a degree in Broadcast Communication from the University of the Philippines in 1981. She co-hosted a radio morning talk show at Radio Veritas in Manila before immigrating to Canada in 1983. Gillis collaborated with Alfredo Roces to write a biography about the legendary artist Sofronio Y. Mendoza titled SYM: The Power of Struggle. She also authored Weaving Our Dreams: The Tboli People of the Philippines.
As a freelance writer, she actively supports and promotes Philippine arts and culture, often writing about the country's rich heritage, history, and traditions. Gillis serves as a volunteer Board Director for the Dimasalang III International Artists Group and is one of the founding members of the Narragila Culture and Arts Foundation.
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