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Jeffrey Dimalanta 09142024

Pocholo Concepcion

<div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:633px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1726303070097929.jpg" style="width:633px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Gallery 928 owner Jeffrey Dimalanta"/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left"><span id="isPasted" style="color:rgb(51, 51, 51);letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;white-space:pre-wrap;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-color:initial;display:inline !important;float:none">Gallery 928 owner Jeffrey Dimalanta</span> </span></span></span></div><p><br/>MANILA -- Jeffrey Dimalanta is on to something not everyone can pull off — even if they want to.</p><p>The 44-year-old owner of Gallery 928 is holding his second art auction in a tightly competitive scene dominated by only two other auction houses. </p><p>But Dimalanta, who says he was born to learn the business of art through his father, the late Sonny Dimalanta of Artwalk, is determined to pursue his “vision is to bring excitement to many friends in the art community while fostering deeper connections among everyone involved.” </p><p>ABS-CBN News had an online chat with Dimalanta in between hectic preparations for “Echoes of Rarity: An Exceptional Art Auction,” to be held on Sept. 28, 2 p.m. at the G/F, SJW Building, Paseo de Magallanes, Osmeña Highway, Makati, with a preview on Sept. 21-27, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>What was your earliest memory of looking at a painting?</strong><strong> </strong></div><p>As a child, I remember looking at paintings by an artist named Cadayona, and also by Eddie Boy Sarmiento.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Your father Sonny Dimalanta played a role in your interest in art. Tell us about his work and how you got involved.</strong><strong> </strong></div><p>I began actively assisting my dad when he opened his gallery, Artwalk, in Bel Air. My duties included typing artist biographies and printing them on the backs of the frames of their works. I developed a cataloging system and distributed flyers in various Makati churches on Sundays. I also delivered catalogs to different establishments in Makati.</p><p>I was likewise involved in physical tasks, such as loading paintings into my dad’s van, and accompanying him on client visits. When I learned to drive, I took on the responsibility of delivering the artworks myself.</p><p> I also managed client communications, reaching out via emails, texts, and phone calls to invite them to view the artworks on weekends. My involvement extended further as I regularly visited artists to collect their pieces and coordinated with the framer to ensure everything was ready for display.</p><div> </div><div><strong>What do you find most interesting about the art community?</strong></div><p>The wealth of stories of people recounting how they acquired artworks and the connections they have made with others with similar interests. Listening to them, I often discover we have mutual friends and realize the web of relationships that binds us together.</p><p>I also find great amusement in listening to the tales and anecdotes of artists, as well as the experiences of art dealers. The interactions I’ve had with these passionate individuals are priceless. It’s an honor and a privilege to know collectors, artists, and dealers alike.</p><p>Yet, there’s also a touch of sadness when I hear someone has died. Ultimately, these exchanges, filled with laughter and shared experiences, have become treasured memories that deepen my appreciation of the vibrant art community.</p><div> </div><div><strong>You struck out on your own by opening a gallery. Any special meaning to the numbers in Gallery 928?</strong></div><p>When I was about to put it up in its first location in Quezon City, my wife and I had an issue on how to deal with money since she has her own business and I have mine. It came to a point when I said she can manage the money coming from her business and I can handle the income the gallery will generate. September 28 is our anniversary date before we got married. I was prompted to incorporate the date as the gallery’s name to remind us that we are one in everything, that the gallery and her business is God’s blessing, and we should manage it together.</p><div> </div><div><strong>What challenges did you deal with Gallery 928?</strong></div><p>As with all businesses, the real challenge when you finally decide to pursue your dream is having the financial means for it. I started with a revolving capital from a bank, but it was still not enough to finish the first gallery. This shortfall pushed me into a phase of relentless determination. I had to work day and night to gather the resources needed to complete the gallery’s construction and interior design. I took on additional freelance projects, leveraged existing connections, and sought out sponsors who shared a vision for supporting the arts. Every effort, every late-night call, and every ounce of creativity I poured into securing funds was driven by my passion for creating a space where artists could flourish and engage with the community. It was a challenging journey, but the satisfaction of seeing the gallery come to life made every struggle worthwhile.</p><div> </div><div><strong>What were the rewards that motivated you to continue?</strong></div><p>I always looked forward to and cherished every lunchtime that my dad and I would share in the gallery. It became our meeting place, a sanctuary where we would plan and strategize the next steps for the business. Those moments were infused with laughter and ideas as we bounced concepts off each other, shaping the vision we had for the gallery.</p><p>Of course, being able to provide for my family has always been the driving force behind all my business plans. Each decision was made not just to elevate the gallery, but to ensure a stable and nurturing environment for my loved ones. This commitment added layers of meaning to our discussions, transforming each strategy session into a blend of ambition and familial devotion.</p><div> </div><div><strong>You also mentioned about having to be ready for artists who want to sell their work when they badly need cash. Have you dealt with such situations?</strong></div><p>The logistics of the art world often posed barriers, especially for those without strong networks or financial backing. Before the internet, artists relied heavily on galleries, exhibitions, and word-of-mouth to showcase their works, which could severely limit their reach and opportunities. However, the digital age has transformed this landscape dramatically. Nowadays, artists can easily share their creations on social media platforms, build personal websites, and connect with a global audience.</p><p>This newfound accessibility not only allows them to showcase their talents but also fosters direct interaction with potential buyers and art enthusiasts. The barriers of entry have diminished, empowering a diverse range of voices and styles that were previously overshadowed by logistical constraints. It’s fascinating to witness how technology has reshaped the art community, allowing for a vibrant exchange of ideas and greater collaboration across the globe.</p><div> </div><div><strong>What made you want to organize your own art auction?</strong></div><p>I think it’s about time I honor my friends, collectors, and consignors alike by creating something special. My vision is to bring excitement to many friends in the art community while fostering deeper connections among everyone involved. Inspired by the successful auction houses abroad and locally, I want to curate events that not only showcase remarkable artworks, but also provide a platform for interaction and celebration. These gatherings could become a focal point for artists and collectors to engage, share stories, and build lasting relationships, further enriching the tapestry of the art scene.</p><div> </div><div><strong>It’s hard work that needs a whole team, as you found out. What were the lessons from your debut auction last June?</strong></div><p>The experience taught me several invaluable lessons about collaboration and perseverance. First, I learned that God’s timing is perfect, His will is always aligned with our efforts, and He will not leave you hanging during crucial moments. Embracing this belief helped in navigating the challenges that arose as we prepared for the event.</p><p>I also found great joy in the process of putting together an auction house. The journey itself sparked a sense of creative fulfilment and connection with my team, reminding me that while achieving our goals is important, the experiences and relationships we forge along the way are what truly matter. For me, the destination is just icing on the cake, reinforcing the idea that every step taken is part of a larger, enriching tapestry that shapes our lives and careers in the art world.</p><div><strong>Your second auction is coming. Give us an idea of the works and artists to be offered.</strong></div><p>Our second auction is called “Echoes of Rarity: An Exceptional Art Auction,” to be held on Sept. 28, 2 p.m., G/F, SJW Building, Paseo de Magallanes, Osmeña Highway, Makati, with a preview on Sept. 21-27, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.</p><p>It will feature a diverse array of works from some of the most esteemed names in Philippine art. We are excited to offer pieces by Andres Barrioquinto, Araceli Dans, Cesar Legaspi, Gus Albor, Jose Joya, Justin Nuyda, Juvenal Sanso, Lao Lianben, Mauro Malang Santos, Vicente Manansala, Abdulmari Imao, Ronald Ventura, and Dr. Toribio Herrera.</p><p>The auction will have a broad range of artistic styles and mediums, such as modern and contemporary art, abstract and realism, as well as expressionism, surrealism, figurative art, aesthetics, and cubism. Expect to see everything from vibrant acrylic and oil paintings and detailed drawings to striking sculptures, showcasing the unique talents and innovative approaches of each artist.</p><div> </div><div><strong>What does it take to be an effective art auctioneer?</strong> </div><p>Authenticity is paramount. Also, it takes not just passion and desire, but also guts to stand before a crowd and engage potential buyers.</p><p>You must genuinely love what you’re doing; this love fuels your energy and enthusiasm, making it palpable to your audience.</p><p>I was born into this business — it&#x27;s in my blood, a legacy passed down from my dad, who instilled in me the value of genuine connections and the importance of storytelling in art.</p><p>Establishing credibility in the art industry is essential, as not everyone with financial means can open an auction house. It requires a deep understanding of the art world, a keen eye for quality, and the ability to foster relationships with artists, collectors, and clients alike. Ultimately, I hope to nurture this auction house by God’s grace, building a reputation grounded in authenticity and passion that resonates with everyone involved.</p><div><br/></div><div><br/></div>

<p>Gallery 928 owner Jeffrey Dimalanta, who says he was born to learn the business of art, is determined to pursue his ‘vision is to bring excitement to many friends in the art community’</p>

Gallery 928 owner Jeffrey Dimalanta, who says he was born to learn the business of art, is determined to pursue his ‘vision is to bring excitement to many friends in the art community’

Young gallerist to hold second art auction in tightly competitive field

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Young gallerist to hold second art auction in tightly competitive field

Pocholo Concepcion

Published September 14, 2024 04:39 PM PHT

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Gallery 928

Jeffrey Dimalanta

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