In a special collaboration with a Tagaytay-based resort, sculptor Ramon Orlina revealed a stunning showcase of glass masterpieces rendered in his distinctive style.
More than just a peaceful, sustainability-focused retreat in the heart of Tagaytay, Anya Resort has also become a hub of cultural activities, merging hospitality with the arts. The most recent collaboration born from this ethos is the exhibition Visions in Glass, which features the iridescent glass masterpieces of renowned sculptor Ramon Orlina, as well as his children Anna and Michael.
The sculptures are currently on display at the lobby area of Anya Resort Tagaytay, perfectly situated by tall glass windows that offer a panoramic view of the sky and outdoor fountain area. It’s a sight to behold at any time of the day, though the true beauty of the carefully-curated display emerged during the grand unveiling, as curtains were drawn to reveal a prismatic display, colorful glass pieces sparkling against the golden-orange glow of sunset.
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Orlina’s World Of Glass
Orlina is one of the Philippines’s most prominent artists, best known for his sculptural works made of glass, each one created using a special “cold method” that he developed on his own, which involves the careful cutting, grinding, and polishing of large, dense blocks of glass. According to Orlina, each piece takes roughly a month and a half to create.
The artist is as multifaceted as his pieces, his career made up of periods of innovation and experimentation involving other materials like bronze. A graduate from the University of Santo Tomas, Orlina holds a degree in architecture—an experience that evidently influences his structural, geometric work until today. Some may know him as the mind behind the recognizable features of Greenbelt’s Sto. Niño de Paz chapel, namely its ceiling, tabernacle, altar, cross at the entrance, sacristy, and God the Father image on the dome.
Orlina’s works often explore spirituality, as well as the female body, in a process inspired by his faith and family. He’s been recognized both in the Philippines and abroad through numerous exhibitions and awards, with large sculptures on display in places like the National Museum of Natural History and Singapore’s Marina Park. In 2014, Orlina and his family opened Museo Orlina, fulfilling the artist’s longheld dream of bringing more museums—and by extension, art—to the Cavite area. Just a stone’s throw away from Anya Resort Tagaytay, the establishment features many of Orlina’s other works and also houses masterpieces from other Filipino artists.
The artist recently released a coffee table book detailing his extraordinary life and work, Visions in Glass, which inspired the name of his traveling exhibition. It was during a 2024 stay at Anya Resort Tagaytay when Orlina met General Manager Mikel Arriet, both of them recognizing the potential for a mutually beneficial partnership that would not only support local art, but also enhance the guest experience at Anya Resort Tagaytay.
A Commitment to Artistry
For the past few years, Anya Resort Tagaytay has collaborated with various artists from the area and beyond, committed to supporting the local arts scene in its own unique ways. When one thinks about it, it’s an organic partnership, as the hotel naturally attracts visitors seeking sensory pleasures and immersive experiences.
“Anya Resort Tagaytay and Museo Orlina are both premier destinations that attract diverse audiences,” explains Arriet. “Hosting an exhibit at Anya allows us to extend the museum experience beyond its walls, offering guests a unique artistic encounter aside from the outdoor theme parks and other establishments in Tagaytay City.”
The team from the Orlina Museum came to the resort to conduct oculars, ensuring that the pieces selected would suit the location at the lobby. “All pieces highlight Mr. Orlina’s artistic journey and all, except for one piece, are book pieces [from the Visions in Glass coffee table book],” the museum explains. Only one piece, however, is for sale due to how much time it takes to create one piece.
What excited Arriet the most about this collaboration was the opportunity to showcase the works of Orlina, whose talent and vision he deeply admires. Arriet is an avid art appreciator, which is why it’s been a dream for him to have the sculptures featured at the resort. Orlina’s pieces evoke emotions and offer a deeper connection to the material world.
“When I look at his sculptures, I feel transported beyond the physical form to a more profound, spiritual experience,” the general manager intimates. “We at Anya Resort Tagaytay are incredibly proud of this collaboration with Museo Orlina. It’s an honor to bring such remarkable art to our guests and showcase the talent of local artists.”
Visions in Glass will run until May 15, 2025 at the lobby of Anya Resort Tagaytay. The “Visions in Glass” book, which is a highly sought-after collector’s item, is available for purchase exclusively at the museum. For inquiries about Museo Orlina, please contact Ms. Regine Duro at 0917 107 5958.
Photos courtesy of Anya Resort Tagaytay.
