A Man of Many Hats
In the dynamic realm of contemporary Filipino artistry, Aidon Panlaqui emerges as someone whose body of work would alway pay homage to Pinoy Pop Culture. Stepping into the limelight after graduating as one of the University of Santo Tomas College of Fine Arts and Design's 10 Best Thesis in 2001, Panlaqui charted an illustrious path, blending his creative genius with a profound affection for his cultural roots.
While his professional journey initially led him to the corridors of advertising, where he flourished as a Creative Director at Ace Saatchi & Saatchi, Panlaqui's artistic soul beckoned him towards diverse passion projects. His collaborations within the music scene, notably with luminaries like The Itchyworms, underscore his versatile talent. Venturing beyond conventional boundaries, Panlaqui lent his artistic prowess to Backspacer Records and Eikon Records, crafting visually stunning album art and layouts for revered artists such as Barbie Almalbis, Kitchie Nadal, The Pin-Up Girls, and The Apo Hiking Society. Moreover, his contributions to the online musical presented by BGC Arts during the pandemic epitomize his resilience and adaptability amidst challenging times.
Panlaqui's multifaceted career extends beyond visual artistry, resonating deeply within the musical sphere. Collaborating with National Artist for Music, Sir Ryan Cayabyab, he imparted lyrical brilliance to compositions performed by esteemed vocal groups like The Company and The Ryan Cayabyab Singers. His indie projects under the erstwhile Monolog banner and solo releases bear testament to his ingenuity, infusing poignant lyrics with evocative melodies reminiscent of revered songwriters such as Adam Schlesinger, Gary Granada, and The Eraserheads.
In a poignant display of altruism and rekindled passion, Panlaqui revisited his love for painting amidst the tumultuous landscape of the pandemic. Crafting 15 masterpieces, he orchestrated a sold-out online exhibition, channeling proceeds towards supporting a friend undergoing chemotherapy—a testament to his compassionate spirit and artistic integrity. As he transforms his humble abode into an art sanctuary, Panlaqui prepares to unveil his magnum opus: "'PinoMenal." This inaugural solo exhibit promises a captivating journey through Panlaqui's artistic odyssey—a tapestry woven with threads of Filipino adoration and cultural resonance.
With "PinoMenal," Aidon Panlaqui transcends the boundaries of artistic expression, offering a poignant reflection of Filipino identity and cultural heritage. As his brushstrokes paint a vivid tableau of collective memories and cherished moments, Panlaqui stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire, unite, and elevate the human spirit.