Creative sparks fly as ibis Styles launches ‘Style Curators’ program

The Style Curators is a new creative series spotlighting emerging Filipino artists through hands-on workshops, exhibitions and residencies. Handout

MANILA – A new wave of creativity is sweeping through Araneta City as ibis Styles Manila launches its “Style Curators” series — an initiative that merges hospitality with grassroots artistry to give emerging Filipino creatives a vibrant platform for expression.

Launched in partnership with Studio ArtFix, the program aims to support and spotlight young artists working across disciplines — from visual and performance art to multimedia and fashion — by hosting workshops, exhibits, and residencies in the hotel’s venues, including Le Bistro and the StrEATs Coworking Café.

Organizers say the initiative is more than a brand activation; it's a community-building effort designed to turn everyday spaces into hubs of inspiration and collaboration.

“The Style Curators program shines a spotlight on Manila’s rising generation of creative leaders — visionaries who are boldly reshaping the city’s diverse art scene,” said Erwin Dona III, Cluster Marketing Head of ibis Styles Manila Araneta City. “We’re proud to offer them not just a platform, but a true creative playground.”

The program opens on July 5 with Palette & Patterns, a guided painting session at Le Bistro, where participants will decorate handwoven native bags with cherry blossom-inspired designs under the guidance of artist John Salcedo. A second session follows on July 26 with Strokes & Totes at the StrEATs Coworking Café, led by multi-awarded artist and Studio ArtFix founder Jethro Medina, known for his expressive mixed-media work and community art outreach.

The creative calendar continues with a calligraphy workshop in August by renowned artist Gabiee Arboleda at StrEATs Private Dining, followed by a unique Coffee Painting session in September led by multi-disciplinary artist Nomer Husain at Le Bistro Deli Atelier. October brings a tactile experience with Portraits in Clay, a sculpting basics workshop by Ken Sioson focused on creating expressive busts. The series concludes in November with a collaborative Oil Portraiture workshop featuring both Medina and Husain — a deep dive into traditional techniques in an intimate, mentorship-style setting.

“It’s a true joy for Studio ArtFix to be part of the Style Curators series,” said Claire and Jethro Medina, co-founders of Studio ArtFix. “We’ve finally found a welcoming haven for creatives in the North, where art, culture, community, music, and entertainment all come together. It’s a space that feels safe, inspiring, and alive, just like what we’ve always envisioned for our art sessions.”

The Style Curators program is in line with ibis Styles’ global branding under Accor, which emphasizes creative design and playful, accessible hospitality.