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VIC Club Filipino and ENFiD-Austria marked 80 years of Philippine-Austrian diplomatic relations through art, traditional craftsmanship and cultural exchange.
VIENNA, Austria, October 16, 2026 — Internationally acclaimed Filipino artist Elito Villaflor Circa, popularly known as Amangpintor, was among the highlights of an art workshop organized by VIC Club Filipino in collaboration with the European Network of Filipino Diaspora (ENFiD)-Austria at the United Nations Office in Vienna on Friday, October 16, 2026.
The special event was held in connection with the Art Exhibit Finissage 2026 and formed part of the celebration of 80 years of Philippine-Austrian diplomatic relations. It brought together Filipino art enthusiasts and community members for an afternoon dedicated to artistic expression, cultural heritage and international friendship.
Amangpintor shares his unique artistic approach
The presence of Amangpintor, known for his unconventional painting techniques and distinctive artistic philosophy, added a special dimension to the gathering. Participants were invited to bring their own canvases and learn directly from the renowned Filipino artist, gaining an opportunity to explore creative techniques under his guidance.
Amangpintor, whose real name is Elito Villaflor Circa, hails from Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija, Philippines. He is recognized for his experimental approach to painting, particularly his use of unconventional materials such as human hair and his own blood in selected artworks. His artistic practice challenges traditional ideas about painting materials while exploring themes of identity, life, heritage and human connection.
Beyond his artistic achievements, Amangpintor has advocated for Indigenouism Art, an approach that emphasizes indigenous identity, natural materials and cultural roots. Through exhibitions, demonstrations and workshops, he has shared his creative methods with audiences in the Philippines and internationally, helping promote Filipino art and culture beyond national borders.
His participation in the Vienna workshop offered members of the Filipino community and other interested participants an opportunity to learn from an artist whose work reflects the diversity and inventiveness of Philippine artistic expression.
Discovering the traditional craft of bobbin lace-making
Alongside the painting workshop, participants also explored the traditional art of bobbin lace-making, guided by Anne, who introduced attendees to the intricate craft of creating lace patterns using threads and bobbins.
The activity complemented the painting session by bringing together contemporary artistic experimentation and traditional craftsmanship. Participants had the opportunity to discover a new skill while appreciating the patience, precision and creativity required to produce delicate lace designs.
The combination of these two workshops reflected the event’s inclusive message: art has no age, and everyone is welcome to discover and develop their creative abilities.
Celebrating Filipino culture and international friendship
Organized by VIC Club Filipino in partnership with ENFiD-Austria, the event also highlighted the important role of Filipino community organizations in promoting cultural understanding and strengthening connections between the Philippines and Austria.
The workshop took place alongside the VIC Club Filipino art exhibition at the VIC Restaurant Exhibition Area, where artworks created by club members and their family members were displayed until October 16, 2026. The exhibition provided a platform for Filipino artists and creative individuals to share their work with the international community at the Vienna International Centre.
By bringing together painting, traditional handicrafts and an exhibition of community artworks, the initiative demonstrated how cultural activities can foster dialogue, preserve artistic traditions and celebrate the contributions of Filipinos living abroad.
As the Philippines and Austria commemorate eight decades of diplomatic relations, the event served as a meaningful reminder that cultural exchange remains an important bridge between nations. Through the participation of Amangpintor and the collaboration between VIC Club Filipino and ENFiD-Austria, the gathering celebrated not only Filipino artistic talent but also the enduring value of creativity, community and international friendship.
- Hector Pascua/pictures: Mandy Salonga/Emigdio Nava
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