(Manila Bulletin) Filipino painter Elmer Borlongan has made a European debut during his participation in an exhibit held in Paris in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and France.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the exhibit, entitled “When Time Stood Still,” opened in October following a partnership between the Philippine Embassy in France and the Galerie Geraldine Banier.

Opening and reception ceremonies were attended by art aficionados from the Philippines, France and other parts of Europe, DFA added.

“When Time Stood Still” featured 15 paintings and monotypes produced during the height of Covid-19 pandemic, inviting art observers “to ponder questions such as our values and the meaning of life in light of the pandemic we experienced,” the agency said.