As artist Bencab approaches his 70th birthday, he need not worry whether he has made his mark in the world – this Filipino’s masterpieces are much coveted in Southeast Asian art auctions. His paintings of a scavenger woman named “Sabel” have become iconic images, inspiring dance concerts and a fashion show. Three years ago, he opened the Bencab Museum in his idyllic mountain home in Baguio City. Shuttling between his studio and art exhibits around the world, he made time to chat with Maida Pineda about his travels.
WHERE WAS YOUR LAST TRIP?
I just got back from Cebu. We went to relax in the peaceful Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort. From Sumilon, we went to Oslob, on the southern tip of Cebu, to swim with the whale sharks. It was an awesome and unforgettable experience.
WHERE ARE YOU HEADED TO NEXT?
I’m gearing up for an exhibition in Singapore in May. I was part of an art residency at the studio of a Mexican sculptor, together with artists from Singapore and Malaysia. Our artworks will be exhibited in Singapore. We may also be in Hong Kong for the annual art fair, Art HK, which usually coincides with the Christie’s spring auction in May.
WILL I FIND A SKETCHBOOK, CANVAS OR PAINTBRUSH IN YOUR SUITCASE?
I always bring a sketchbook and pen.
ANY TRAVEL ESSENTIALS?
A camera and my favourite hat.
YOU’VE HAD THE HONOUR OF BEING AN ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE IN MANY CHARMING PLACES. WHICH DESTINATIONS DID YOU LIKE BEST?
I enjoyed all of them for different reasons. I liked Bali for the exotic culture. Singapore gave me the chance to work with paper and print experts, plus the privilege to use the state-of-the-art facilities of the Singapore Tyler Print Institute. I enjoyed Mexico’s similarity with our culture.
ANY FAVOURITE CITY?
I like London, where I lived for 13 years. I love Paris, New York and San Francisco for the art.
WHAT INDULGENCE DO YOU GIVE IN TO WHEN TRAVELLING?
There are two. Buying antiques and eating in good restaurants.
WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION DURING YOUR TRIPS?
I like to people-watch and find interesting characters wherever I go. Unusual places that I am visiting for the first time also inspire me.
DO YOU SPEND MUCH TIME LINGERING IN MUSEUMS WHEN YOU TRAVEL?
I spend most of my time in museums and galleries. I particularly like the National Gallery and the Tate Modern in London, and the MOMA in New York for their great collections. The Musée du Quai Branly in Paris is a recent favourite for its collection of primitive art.
HOW DO YOU MAKE TIME GO BY QUICKLY ON LONG FLIGHTS?
I watch movies and sleep.
WHAT’S THE BEST SOUVENIR YOU’VE BROUGHT HOME?
A folio of vintage Philippine photos that I found in an antiquarian shop in London.
DO YOU HAVE ANY PET PEEVES WHEN TRAVELLING?
Going through airport security.
