In a world that’s always changing, a woman’s journey is much like the political landscape of our country—complicated, full of challenges, and constantly evolving. Just as politics is shaped by power shifts, societal pressures, and historical struggles, a woman’s life often involves balancing expectations, fighting for her freedom, and breaking through barriers set by tradition and culture.
As if the external world weren’t complicated enough, women still face quieter struggles—the daily balancing acts—the early mornings spent juggling work, housework, and family responsibilities, and the endless expectations to “have it all together” while dealing with personal doubts and insecurities.
These daily battles aren’t always visible, but they weigh heavily on a woman’s spirit. They mirror the never-ending process of transformation, where external struggles meet personal growth, demonstrating the resilience women must have to keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles.
In the latest installment of Conrad Manila’s of Arts and Wine, visual artist Kara Pangilinan delves into this ongoing evolution, using visual art to symbolize the multifaceted and often challenging paths women navigate.
“At Conrad Manila, we recognize the invaluable contributions of women in our workplace and beyond. This Women’s Month, we are proud to celebrate their achievements and the vital roles they play in shaping our industry and communities. Throughout March, we honor their dedication and impact with meaningful experiences that reflect our appreciation,” shares Fabio Berto, general manager of Conrad Manila.
Through her exhibit Woman in Progress, Pangilinan invites viewers to reflect on the inner and outer experiences of women as they navigate personal identities amid societal roles and cultural expectations.
In the Name of Progress
As the exhibit’s title suggests, transformation is at the core of Pangilinan’s works, depicting a woman not as a static being but as a dynamic force constantly reconstructing itself.
Through her use of texture, imagery, and color, the artist captures the continuous change inherent in a woman’s life. She evokes a sense of growth, representing a woman’s progression both physically and emotionally.
When Conrad Manila invited her to hold a solo exhibit in April 2024, Pangilinan had her reservations. It wasn’t just her upcoming wedding in July 2024 that gave her pause but also the major changes unfolding in her life and the evolving nature of her art style.
“I thought it was a weakness that my life and my art were shifting. And I thought it was a bad thing that I would exhibit during a time like that. But it became the point of interest for the curator. I didn’t realize that it would be nice to share that evolution and that it would be very relatable to others. Women always change, and people always change,” Pangilinan said.
She added: “We are meant to continually evolve. Through my paintings, I intend to emphasize that we can embrace every version of ourselves and be the multifaceted, dynamic beings we are all meant to be. Every stroke and every line on each piece allowed me to breathe a little bit deeper and feel a little bit more at peace, and I hope that is what guests and viewers feel when they see the paintings.”
Her Journey, Her Story
Rooted in human emotions and experiences, Pangilinan’s works convey these themes through the intricate lines and patterns of her “linescapes,” as well as lace, leaves, and female figures. This latest collection showcases detailed pieces that reflect the idea of being a work in progress.
Pangilinan describes her style as “elaborate expressionism,” defined by intricate details across various subjects. She began her art career in 2011, using black-and-white doodles to express her teenage emotions. Her classmates soon took notice, leading to the creation of her artist brand, Details Ink.
In college, she expanded from selling stationery and shirts to creating murals and illustrations for brands like Heineken, Johnnie Walker, and Google. During the pandemic, she found her passion for painting, using acrylics and ink to explore vibrant depictions of nature, marking the evolution of her style.
Her paintings Self-Portrait: I Am a Work in Progress, Right Where I’m Meant to Be, and Sometimes I Wanna Disappear resonate deeply, capturing the emotional complexity of women’s journeys. Woman in Progress offers a compelling narrative—one that embraces growth, contradictions, and the power to shape one’s own path. As I left the exhibit, I carried not just images of transformation but also a renewed sense of purpose, knowing we are all works in progress.
Woman in Progress, featuring 29 artworks by Pangilinan that highlight the transitions in her artistic journey—and how she herself is a work in progress, like everyone else—will be on exhibit until May 10 at Conrad Manila’s Gallery C.
