by Jing Ramos |

Oj Hofer, our fashion contributing editor, is a Fine Arts graduate from the University of the Philippines. Though he began painting at the age of eight, his artistic journey took a transformative turn in 2013. While volunteering as a costume designer for Siddhartha: The Musical, he encountered Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s One-Stroke Calligraphy, sparking a deep devotion to Japanese sumi-e painting and kanji calligraphy. Over the years, he refined his craft, using his art to share the Dharma through exhibitions while supporting the Hsing Yun Educational Foundation. In 2022, his spiritual path deepened at Nan Tien University, where he embraced Zen and Humanistic Buddhism, shaping his artistic philosophy.

“Plum Blossoms in Moonlight.” Serigraphy on abaca.

In his recent works, Hofer merges traditional calligraphy with serigraphy, drawing inspiration from his friend Charles Lahti—an internationally recognized New York-based painter and printmaker. Lahti, known for his collaborations with post-war American artists like Robert Rauschenberg, Donald Judd, Andy Warhol, and LeRoy Neiman, introduced Hofer to silkscreen techniques. Through a workshop Lahti conducted in Cebu—arranged by their mutual friend Greg Urra—Hofer integrated silkscreen into his Zen artworks, particularly those on abaca.

“The Circle of Harmony” Serigraphy and Calligraphy on abaca.

Hofer’s cross-disciplinary approach challenges conventional Zen aesthetics. His layered paintings on abaca may seem far from tranquil at first glance, but closer contemplation reveals a meditative core. His serigraph of an Enso circle, for example, initially appears chaotic, filled with Tang Dynasty poetry and overlapping, repetitive forms. Yet, by focusing on a single calligraphic element, the viewer experiences a moment of clarity—a glimpse of awakening within the visual complexity.

“Monkey Mind” Serigraphy and Calligraphy on abaca.

Even more engaging is his diptych Monkey Mind. At odds with the traditional Zen emphasis on negative space, this piece is deliberately busy, reflecting the restless nature of the mind. A distracted viewer may struggle to find a focal point, but one attuned to emptiness and presence will perceive clarity amidst the seeming disarray.

Ink and intention—creating calligraphy in support of one of my advocacies.

By fusing Zen philosophy with the discipline of serigraphy, Hofer invites his audience to look beyond surface impressions and discover stillness within movement, balance within complexity. His art does not merely depict Zen—it embodies the paradoxes at its core, offering a path to mindfulness through the act of seeing and the experience of doing.

By Jing Ramos

Animula, taken from the Latin word meaning “little soul,” engages deeply with the consciousness of mindful eating. Each entry of the menu at Animula is crafted as a vibrant narrative celebrating the symbiotic relationship between land and sea. This culinary jargon is enriched by the Tagalog words “ani” (harvest) and “mula” (beginnings), setting a blueprint towards sustainable gastronomy and respect for ancestral culinary traditions.

The restaurant’s interior is an intricate fusion of design, featuring bespoke furniture and lighting fixtures by acclaimed designer Kenneth Cobonpue. These carefully curated elements, combined with luxurious textiles from artist Francis Dravigny, create an atmosphere of sophistication and tranquility. The graphic design by Andronik Poloz enhances this immersive experience, allowing diners to connect with the stories behind each dish, rooted in Bohol’s rich cultural heritage.

The interior of the restaurant combines Philippines’ rich cultural heritage with a contemporary twist

Walnut and broccoli pasta

Set in the laid-back coastline of Tagbilaran, the Animula Tasting Room and Outdoor Lounge stands as a beacon of culinary innovation. With breathtaking views of Panglao Island across the water, diners are encouraged to engage in the mindful practice of savoring bites on plates that reflect the intrinsic nature of the farm-to-table philosophy. The entries on the menu showcase locally sourced ingredients, promoting the idea that dining can be a meaningful and conscientious experience.

Emma Gomez ‘s Animula stands as a beacon of culinary innovation.

In a conversation with Emma Gomez, the creator of Animula states that, “By prioritizing ethical sourcing practices, Animula not only curates extraordinary culinary journeys but also strengthens bonds with local agricultural and fishing communities.” At Animula, mindful eating transcends mere consumption—it becomes a celebration of life, culture, and community, inviting diners to reflect on their role in nurturing the world around them.

Location: Magat Building,VP Inking Avenue, Barangay Mansasa, Tagbilaran ,Bohol, Philippines

Mobile No. 09395367739

by Jing Ramos

Danny Rayos del Sol’s extensive background in the country’s artistic milieu has played a crucial role in fostering a highly spirited community that thrives on collaboration and creativity. He is quite known as the former head of the National Committee for Art Galleries under the National Commission for Culture and Arts. He also curates for ManilArt, the National Art Fair, and the Annual Sculpture Review. As a cultural worker, he has been a mentor for various artists as well as spearheading the establishment of the Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao Art Fairs.

“Mag-Ina” | Medium: Ostrich Egg Shell | Size: 6.5″

Consequently, Danny Rayos del Sol found himself immersed in the actual creative process of his own artwork. His medium is perhaps one of the most unusual in the current sculpture art style. Ostrich eggshells are known for their thickness and strength, making it possible for the artist to work on the material with detailed geometric patterns in the utmost delicacy. The size of the ostrich egg, which can be up to 15 centimeters in diameter, allows the artist to create texture incisions in various depths with some designs cut directly on the eggshell.

This year, Visayas Art Fair 5 honors the artist’s achievement by showcasing his current works that define the nation’s cultural landscape. The artist’s body of work portrays images and patterns suggesting norms and derivatives concurrent to folk and contemporary iconography. His narratives on peace, freedom and spirituality has shaped his aesthetics that is uniquely Filipino and elevated it into fine art.