Lawton Ladao weaves Filipino memories into visual poetry at ‘Ars Nobilis’
Filipino painter Lawton Ladao transforms childhood memories into visual poetry at “Ars Nobilis: A Collective of Timeless Artistry,” a group exhibition presented by VAM International Art Gallery at Ayala Malls Feliz in Pasig City.
Running from November 7 to 22, 2026, the exhibition features Ladao’s signature paintings combining whimsical characters, intricate monochromatic figures, and vibrant backgrounds.
Known as an “illustrator of memories,” Ladao draws inspiration from a Filipino childhood when friendships were formed on neighborhood streets, games were played under the afternoon sun, and laughter was shared face-to-face.
The poetry of childhood
“Bata Batuta! Isang perang muta. May dumi sa ulo. Ikakasal sa Linggo. Inalis, inalis. Ikakasal sa Lunes.”
For Ladao, this familiar childhood rhyme carries memories of a world before smartphones and social media transformed how children played and connected.
“Katulad ng tulang ito na palagi naming binabanggit nuong kabataan namin, na hanggang ngayon ay palagi pa ring nagbibigay ng alaalang hindi malimot ng gunita at puso,” he shares.
His paintings revisit traditional games, old-fashioned courtship, neighborhood friendships, and everyday Filipino experiences through expressive figures and colorful compositions.
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“Nais kong palaging buhayin ang ala-ala at pakiramdam. At nais kong ipaalala rin sa iba, at ikwento sa mga kabataang hindi inabutan ang kabataan ko bago naimbento ang teknolohiya,” Ladao explains.
He remembers childhood as a time of genuine human connection.
“Kung kaylan malakas at masaya ang tawa habang naglalaro at amoy pawis ang damit dahil sa sikat ng araw. Mga kalarong nahahawakan, naaakbayan, nakakausap. Mga totoong kaibigan at hindi lang mga boses sa kabilang linya ng telepono.”
Art as cultural memory
Beyond painting, Ladao is a public school teacher in Bulacan who uses art to introduce students to Filipino traditions and values.
His “Diwata” series explores environmental advocacy through Philippine mythology, while “Biyaheng Lawton” captures everyday street life and ordinary Filipino experiences.
Through his participation in “Ars Nobilis,” Ladao continues to transform personal nostalgia into a shared cultural narrative.
His paintings do more than remember childhood. They preserve the laughter, friendships, and simple pleasures of a generation whose stories deserve to live beyond memory.
The exhibition continues until November 22 at the Atrium of Ayala Malls Feliz, Pasig City.
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