Renowned artist offers Philippine cultural Christmas workshop

CHICAGO  –  Avant-garde Filipino-American artist Fred DeAsis offers parol-making (Philippine Christmas lantern) workshop during the 7th Annual Parol Festival on November 18, Sunday from 12 to 4 p.m. at St. Brebeuf Church’s Activity Center, 8307 N. Harlem in Niles, Illinois.

The fun-filled family event includes presentation of the history, significance of parol in the Philippine culture, Christmas sing-along, best parol contest and taste of various Filipino foods. Participants bring home their parol.

“Christmas in the Philippines is not complete without parol. The workshop aims to promote one of the Philippines’ cultural traditions during the Christmas season”, said DeAsis. “The display of parol is a tradition that goes back to early 1600s after the arrival of the Spaniards to spread Christianity in the country.”

Workshop facilitator, cultural conservationist and Asian ancient art lecturer Fred DeAsis is the recipient of 2010 CFO Presidential Award from the President of the Philippines, Benigno Aquino III, for outstanding achievement and service in the field of Arts and Culture. The international award is given every two years to highly selected individuals and organizations for their outstanding achievements on their given field.

Registration is required via web site – https://www.parolfest.com . A confirmation will be sent via email. The workshop is open to public at no charge. Minimal donation for the materials suggested. More information is available on the artist’s Facebook account.