Insider Spotlight
Conrad Manila is deepening its commitment to inclusive and accessible art experiences as it launches Return & Remember: Places & Home, a solo exhibition by Filipino-Canadian artist J.A. Tan—an internationally recognized artist on the autism spectrum.
The 38th installment of the hotel’s Of Art and Wine series runs at Gallery C from Nov. 19, 2025 to Jan. 17, 2026.
By featuring a neurodiverse artist whose work has achieved global acclaim, Conrad Manila is expanding representation within Manila’s hospitality and cultural landscape.
State of playThe show presents 36 paintings inspired by Tan’s memories and connections to Vancouver, the Philippines, Europe, and the United States—expressed through the bold, emotive style for which he is known.
“Inclusivity has always been at the heart of our values at Conrad Manila,” Rupert Hallam, general manager, said in a press release on Nov. 20, 2025. “This new exhibit is especially meaningful to us, as it features the world-class talent of J.A. Tan,” he added
Tan’s personal journey has long shaped his art. “Each image speaks of a moment, a place, or a feeling that resonates deeply within me … These paintings bring together fragments of memory, allowing me to understand and share my personal narrative,” he shared.
Global milestones
In 2012, J.A.’s painting “Victory” was featured on a United Nations postage stamp for Autism Awareness, making him the first Filipino artist to receive this honor. His art has since appeared on book covers, in fashion collaborations, and even on an Italian wine label.
Community impact
The opening event included an auction of a limited-edition canvas reprint of Rice Fields, merchandise inspired by Tan’s works, and a collaborative Montecorneo 570 Albe 2021 Grechetto Passito dessert wine bottle. All proceeds were donated to the Autism Society Philippines.
What’s next
To extend the experience, C Lounge introduced a themed afternoon tea menu inspired by Tan’s color motifs and textures, featuring dishes like roasted pumpkin feta mousse tartlet, smoked salmon yuzu cream on rye, and mango calamansi mousse with crispy black rice.
The bottom line
Conrad Manila’s spotlight on J.A. Tan reinforces the hotel’s role as a champion of inclusivity—showcasing how art spaces can empower neurodiverse creators and bring communities into deeper, more meaningful dialogue. —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
