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Manila Bulletin devider Technews devider Bridging cultures through monumental sculptures and capturing the world with Huawei P60 Pro

Bridging cultures through monumental sculptures and capturing the world with Huawei P60 Pro

Published Apr 26, 2023 04:32 am
Rey Mudjahid Ponce Millan, better known as Kublai Millan or simply Kublai, is a multi-talented artist hailing from Mindanao, Philippines. His larger-than-life sculptures have captured the hearts of Filipinos and international art enthusiasts alike, making him one of the region's most recognized and celebrated artists. In addition to his sculpting expertise, Kublai is an accomplished art photographer and painter. His works represent the cultural diversity of Mindanao and serve as a testament to the unending hope and resilience of the Filipino people. Kublai's passion for art was ignited at a young age when he started creating artwork for his family's hotel, Ponce Suites, in Davao City. His mother, who managed the hotel, encouraged and nurtured his love for the arts. After obtaining his Fine Arts degree from the University of the Philippines Diliman, Kublai returned to Davao City, where he began painting and sculpting subjects inspired by the culture of his hometown. Kublai's most iconic works are his large-scale sculptures, which are captivating in their size and cultural significance. Among his most famous creations are the "Kampilan" in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, which symbolizes unity and bravery, and the "Risen Christ" in Tagum City, a testament to the strong faith of the Filipino people. Other notable works include the giant durian monument at Francisco Bangoy International Airport, representing Davao's abundant natural resources, and the giant eagle and Bagobo children sculptures at People's Park, showcasing Mindanao's rich cultural heritage. Kublai's artistic talents have transcended the realm of sculpture as he was commissioned to design the trophy for the first Manila Bulletin UPLIFT Awards. Collaborating with interior designer Willie Garcia, Kublai created a trophy that embodies the unending hope of the Filipino people in the face of adversity. This prestigious award honors individuals and institutions that unite, perform, lead, and inspire, focusing on issues that uplift the nation. Kublai Millan's insatiable curiosity and quest for inspiration have taken him to various corners of the world. Currently, Kublai is embarking on an artistic journey to Nepal, bringing along the Huawei P60 Pro as his trusted companion. This powerful smartphone, equipped with cutting-edge camera technology, allows Kublai to capture the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayan nation and the unique cultural experiences he encounters along the way. Nepal's rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes provide an unparalleled source of inspiration for Kublai. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the serene beauty of the Annapurna mountain range, the Huawei P60 Pro enables Kublai to document his experiences and share them with his followers, further solidifying his reputation as a multi-faceted artist and a global creative force. Kublai's love affair with the Huawei phone started when his long-time friend Jimmy Yap, CEO of TekPone, introduced the Huawei Mate 20 Pro to him. "His interest in photography came back when he started using the Mate 20 Pro" said Mr. Yap. Huawei limited edition cases by Kublai Millan.

"Kublai loved the Huawei phones so much that we collaborated to produce limited edition cases for the 20 series -- P20lite, p20, p20pro, Mate20pro, and one for Nova 5T." added Mr. Yap. Kublai Millan's artistic prowess has made him a cultural icon in Mindanao and beyond. His sculptures, paintings, and other artistic creations have showcased the richness and diversity of Mindanao's cultural heritage and served as a source of pride and inspiration for Filipinos everywhere. Through his larger-than-life art, Kublai has carved a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of artists and art enthusiasts alike. Below is a selection of stunning photographs Kublai Millan took during his journey to Nepal using the Huawei P60 Pro. These images capture the essence of the country's landscapes, people, and culture, as seen through the eyes of a talented artist. The photos below serve as a testament to the power of the Huawei P60 Pro's camera technology and Kublai Millan's unique artistic vision: These photographs offer just a glimpse into the extraordinary world of Kublai Millan and the potential of the Huawei P60 Pro to capture the beauty of our surroundings. As Kublai continues to explore new horizons and create art that transcends boundaries, his legacy will live on, inspiring others to follow their passions and celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of their communities.
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