Design House Wataru Sakuma Introduction Last October 17-20, 2012, a feast of convolutedly designed products, international quality,

globally competitive products, and unique Philippine artistry and workmanship was held during the Manila FAME at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City. The event highlighted the theme; The Art of the Craftsman = The Soul of the Philippines which showcased some of the Philippines respectable and excellent designers/artists together
with their remarkable creations which are mostly made from native materials.

Manila FAME has offered various sightseer spots during the event such as the Hibla Pavilion, Style Spots, Craft Spots, the Garden Pavilion, and the Design Houses. The Hibla Pavilion displayed the arts of the indigenous people while the style spots displayed the latest fashion trends. The Craft Spots featured live artists creating different artworks. The Garden Pavilion exposed different designs from different nations. The Design Houses were graced by the wonderful works of different great artists such as Ito Kish, Amina Aranaz, Robert Alejandro, Olivia dAboville, and, Wataru Sakuma. Assessment Buyers, visitors and media attendance There were a significant number of foreign and local buyers present during the event as well as media not only from the Philippines but from different countries as well such as Paris, and the United States. Notable celebrities were also sighted wandering around the halls. Celebrities like Kris Aquino, Boy Abunda, Angel Aquino, Georgina Wilson, Marjorie Baretto, and a lot more. There were also VIPs who visited the event; Sec. Gregory L. Domingo, Under Secretary Cristino L. Panlilio, Nicolette Nauman, James Booth, etc. Buyer Inquiries Foreign and local buyers were amazed from the moment they had a glimpse of the paper panels attached in the design house of Wataru Sakuma. They were interested about the materials used and what is the use of such paper panels. They were also inquiring about the manufacturer and where its plant is located. The buyers were in awe when they knew that the paper panels were made from Salago and Banana fiber which are found in our land. However, regarding the vases and lamps, some were horrified when they knew it was made from bones while some were astonished when they knew that it was the toughest porcelain. Comments about the setting

The visitors of the design house had similar comments about the structure and how it was conceived. A large number of guests thought that it was very brilliant and marvelous. Some would just be speechless on how beautiful it was especially on the placement of the paper panels which created a flamboyant lighting effect as it was positioned against some lighting. Notable occurrences Most of the buyers assumed that we, the ushers for the design house, are working with the company our designers are representing. They would ask thorough questions, which are of course, not on our scope of knowledge anymore. We cant blame them however as they are a third party to the event. Conclusion I could say that the event, Manila FAME, was a successful one. With all the staff, designers, on the job trainees, and, workers functioning effectively and efficiently, there was no doubt that it would be the talk of the town for quite some time.

Prepared by: KMEM