Sentro Rizal DC hosts Elmer Calata’s ‘In Due Time” exhibit

Elmer Calata talks more about his drawings to friends and visitors. CONTRIBUTED

WASHINGTON, D.C. – “In Due Time,” a solo art exhibition by Washington, DC-based Filipino American artist Elmer Calata debuted on Sept. 5 under the auspices of Sentro Rizal Washington, DC at the Philippine Chancery Annex Building.

Originally from the Philippines, Elmer Calata is influenced by the vibration of the city as well as the peace of the provinces. Elmer’s work expresses experiences drawn from his native land, the “campo” and “pueblo” lifestyle of South America, his travels, and his adaptation to the western world.

“In Due Time” is a collection of his memories and symbolisms of the Philippines as well as his experience as an immigrant and traveler in different worlds and cultures. This body of work spans pieces made from ink, clay and paint.

“The Mind The Lady The Heart”  – one of Elmer Calata’s ceramic sculptures on display.

“It is such an honor to share my work at the Philippine Embassy. I feel like I’ve gone 360 degrees on my life. I’ve been everywhere, I’ve lived everywhere in terms of my own experience as somebody who grew up in the Philippines and came to America,” said Calata.

“We welcome Elmer’s ‘homecoming’, so to speak, to the Philippines after many years of exploring other places and cultures and it is a privilege for us to be able to host his latest works,” Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel G. Romualdez said in a statement.

EBC Washington DC’s Eliza Manglicmot interviews Elmer Calata about his works during the exhibit launch.

“The hosting of ‘In Due Time’ fulfills Sentro Rizal’s mission to give Filipino artists the platform on which they can elevate their creations into the consciousness of the DC community,” the Ambassador added.

“In Due Time” is on exhibit on the 2nd floor of the Philippine Embassy Chancery Annex at 1617 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington DC 20036. It will run until Sept. 27.

Appointments to schedule a visit, contact the Embassy’s cultural desk at [email protected].