20/08/2026
THE WOMAN BEHIND THE VEIL
By Angelie Maranan Banaag
I created this painting to explore identity, culture, femininity, and the many layers that shape who we are.
Her face is partly hidden behind vibrant fabrics, flowers, leaves, and pearls. Each layer carries a story—our traditions, memories, struggles, dreams, and the experiences that quietly shape us.
I intentionally left her eyes uncovered, because even when we hide behind layers, our eyes can still speak. They can reveal strength, vulnerability, pain, wisdom, and hope.
This painting became part of a journey I never imagined. In September 2025, I was humbled to be featured in Manila Bulletin Lifestyle through “Dreaming of Florence,” alongside fellow Filipino artists. In October 2025, this work traveled beyond the Philippines to Vienna, Austria, and later to Florence, Italy, where it became part of my participation in the Florence Biennale 2025.
For me, this is not just a painting.
This is a piece of my journey.
It carries my emotions, my culture, my dreams, and a chapter of my life as an artist. That is why letting it go is not easy.
But today, I have decided to make this very sentimental piece available for a collector who will truly value its story.
This painting is now FOR SALE.
For a serious collector, I am offering this original artwork for ₱50,000 only.
It is difficult to let go of something that has traveled with me, represented me, and reached an international stage. But perhaps its next chapter is meant to be with someone who will continue to appreciate, preserve, and tell its story.
She may be behind a veil, but she is not invisible.
She is a woman of heritage, mystery, resilience, and grace.
And now, I am ready to let her story continue somewhere else.
— AMB
