Imagine Life Without Christmas

The Philippines has one of the longest Christmas in the world. We usually feel the Christmas spirit starting in September. Cool winds are felt, well depends on the weather. Christmas songs are played on the radio, television, and other forms of media. Sometimes we do countdowns to add thrill while waiting for Christmas day. 

During this period we already start buying various items to be given as gifts to our friends and loved ones. And be honest, you also looked for some unused gifts from the previous years and recycled them as gifts again. Although a bad idea, but that’s the reality. 

Before the pandemic, we loved to go to night markets, especially the one located at the heart of Manila. I don’t know but there’s always the thrill of pushing your way through the crowd just to buy a shirt or underwear. We also tend to buy any item even if we do not need them. We just tell ourselves that the item may be of use in the future. 

The length of Christmas preparation is probably enough for us to make a list of people to whom we will give presents. This is also a great time to bring out all the Christmas decors from the storage and display them in your home. When the Christmas bonus finally arrives, we are able to buy the things that we have planned over the year. 

It is sometimes fun to go to the malls and see people scurrying to buy the appliance or gadgets they love. Girls also have their hair done to prepare for the parties that they will attend. The thing is, there are many things to be done before the much-awaited day arrives. 

Now imagine a world without Christmas. Probably it’s hard to tell a child why Christmas would not be coming this year. It may also be hard to imagine if there is no Christmas in the world. Just like some habits, the absence of Christmas may cause anxiety to most individuals. How will you be able to describe to a person a world without Christmas? It is like saying a garden without the natural colors of the environment. A world that looks like an old black and white movie. A scenario that is dull and boring. 

Christmas is also a time to reunite with our friends and relatives. Family members from other countries come home to celebrate Christmas with their loved ones. This is the only time in the year that we can do so many things in just so little time. How can you do this if Christmas is canceled? There is a tendency that families will not be complete. A sad scenario especially for kids. 

No Christmas also means that the -ber months are just like any ordinary day where you go to work or school and come home to sleep. A routine that we experience almost every day. No Christmas also means that Christ was not born to atone us from our sins. Everything may probably be in chaos. 

The good news is that this topic is just hypothetical. Christmas will still come every year no matter what the situation is. We have experienced it during the pandemic. Even though families are on lockdown, we still get the chance to enjoy the season with our loved ones. 

 

Cool Ways To Prepare For The Holidays

Christmas tree snowflakes poster in interior

While many of us are enjoying the cool winds of the season, malls are already packed with items for the Christmas rush. Christmas is one of the most awaited days of the year and it is just smart to prepare early. Preparation is not an overnight process and you will surely regret it when things are half-baked. Early preparation means that when Christmas day arrives, all you have to do is sit and relax. 

Why prepare early for Christmas

It is a fact that the Philippines has one of the longest Christmas in the world. When -ber months set in, you will surely hear Christmas songs being played in malls, radio, and even public transportations. Early preparation is the best way to save money, refrain from stress, and avoid headaches. 

Have you coordinated with your family members on how to celebrate Christmas this year? Of course, we understand that families have traditions that they want to keep in terms of the annual celebration of Christmas. It is still recommended to plan ahead so that to avoid missing any important details. Preparing a few days before Christmas will leave you stressed out, unsatisfied, and panicking. All you want to happen is for the day to be finished. That’s what we want to avoid. 

Prepping for Christmas

Many of us love Christmas and preparing for it is natural and innate. Each individual or family has their own style of prepping and probably the simples that easiest way to start is to make a list. Once you have a list, everything else will be easy and smooth. Proper planning, coordination, distribution of job assignments, and budgeting can extremely help in preventing any untoward events or incidents. 

Work within the budget

Celebrating Christmas means that you have to spend cash. You need to work out your budget so that you can prepare smartly. Remember all the things that you need including food, decors, gifts, attire, greeting cards, and even the fare to and from the malls or supermarket. Work out what you will need to spend and write them all down. This will give you a better idea of how to manage your funds without wasting any cash on unnecessary items. 

Fill in your calendar

December is a busy month for many of us. Make sure to start filling your diary or calendar with the various activities that you need to do. Examples are parties, school events, company lunches or dinners, and others. This practice will prevent you from missing anything. Do not forget any school activities of your kids. If you are planning to order food, make a note when you can order and when you can pick it up. The more organized you are, the better you will feel for the celebrations. 

Make a guest list

Preparing for the Christmas celebration is not easy. Therefore, it is just right to keep track of the people who will attend. Knowing the number of attendees will help you get organized. Make your list and check it twice. Go and find out who will come or not. Start planning for the items that will be needed such as toiletries, extra plates, utensils, food, and drinks. Do not forget the relatives and friends who will stay so you will need extra bedding, beds, pillows, and blankets. 

Send the invites

Send out the invites to know your loved ones that you will be hosting the celebration for Christmas. Be sure to make a note that they will give you their response a few days or a week before the most anticipated day. This will allow you to prepare enough food and drinks so everybody will be satisfied and contented. 

Prepare food early

There are certain food that can be prepared early and kept frozen such as gravy, stuffing, and others. Doing this will save you time and effort to attend to other important things for the celebration. If you can order online, do so to give you more time in prepping. 

Ask for help 

You need not do everything by yourself. Give your family members their respective tasks and monitor them from time to time. With their help, everything will be smooth and organized. Happy holidays!

A Photo Competition Just For You

Over the years, photos have recorded many events and occasions in the history of mankind. Photos are also important keepsakes that show the adventures we had with our family and friends. They also show In Artdesign, we value every photo as these represent who you are. Being part of your life for 1 year is a victory for all of us. As part of our celebration, we are launching a photo competition where you can showcase your skills and talent in photography. 

Beautify your walls with the natures of the Philippines

We all know that the Philippines is one of the richest countries in the world when it comes to biodiversity, seascape, and landscape. In fact, many travelers and tourists, visit the country for rest and recreation, research activities, documentary activities, and others. Filipinos are truly proud of what the country has. 

The Philippines is one of the world’s largest archipelagoes in the world. The topography consists of mountainous terrains, dense forests, plains, and coastal areas. It is considered as one of the mega biodiversity countries in the world with a high flora and fauna endemism. Moreover, the country’s biodiversity has been featured in various reputable magazines, books, and conferences in the world. 

You too will have the chance to feature the beauty of the Philippines with your skills and talent in photography. Imagine your masterpiece being part of the collections of Artdesign and becoming part of the walls of every home. 

The mechanics

Join our PHOTO COMPETITION! Call your friends to VOTE FOR YOU and get a chance to WIN Php 25,000 CASH PRIZE!!!

Hurry! Submission of Entries is until December 31, 2021.

The highest Votes will win the Prizes!

Photo Specifications:

  • The theme for this year’s photo contest is “Beautify Your Walls with Natures of the Philippines”
  • Submit Photos or Create Poster Arts about Philippine Nature
  • Each contestant must submit only one (1) Art Poster entry

(Art paintings/ actual arts graphic art, virtual art, virtual painting, photographs are allowed)

All arts must be submitted through actual jpg/ png/ scanning or photographs and must meet size/ quality requirements

  • Entry must be the contestant’s original work/ original ownership.

Contest Prizes

First Prize: Php 25,000

Second Prize: Php 15,000

Third Prize: Php 10,000

Consolation Prize Php 1,000 worth of artdesign vouchers

FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT JOINING THE CONTEST, VISIT:

www.artdesign.ph/photo-competition

DON’T MISS THIS EXCITING OPPORTUNITY!

BEAUTIFY YOUR WALLS

Decorating For The Holidays – Why It Is Always Fun And Exciting

Merry christmas tree doodle poster

When do you put up your Christmas decorations? In the Philippines, many families start decorating their homes as early as the start of -ber months. It is not surprising, though, since the country has the longest Christmas season in the whole world. People start to be busy buying gifts for their loved ones and homes also become colorful. Christmas is an exciting celebration that is awaited by many throughout the year. So bring out your Christmas lights, wreaths, trees, and stockings. It is never too late to transform your homes and bring the spirit of Christmas. Decorate it to your heart’s content as the season only comes once a year. 

Decorating could make you happier

Decorating for Christmas brings mixed feelings for everyone. It is often associated with feelings of nostalgia and excitement from childhood. Some remember what happened during the year with losses. Whatever the feeling and thoughts may be, one thing is for sure. The season brings hope of having better days in the coming year. Though sometimes it may be hard to believe, people still see the season to be full of hope and optimism. It is also a time to reflect on the things that have happened during the year and what we can do to overcome all the problems and hardships. 

Decorating for Christmas is likewise associated with kids. You can just imagine the smiles on your children’s faces when they place the star at the top of the Christmas tree. Hanging stockings or socks would also give them hope that on Christmas morning, they will receive their presents from Santa. In addition to these, the colors of Christmas, like red, are stimulating and evoke a happy and elating feeling. 

Neighbors will love you

Studies have also shown that people who see homes adorned with Christmas decorations are more friendly and sociable. Decorated houses are seen to be more welcoming and inviting as compared with plain houses. The colors of Christmas decors are likewise warm and stimulating which is perfect especially during the cool weather of the season. So, what are you waiting for? Time to display your Christmas wreaths with pride and make your neighbors smile whenever they pass in front of your yard. 

Accessorize your walls

Always treat your walls as a blank canvas where you can personalize them or even display your favorite art. This time make the walls look more appealing with holiday posters. There are many designs to choose from and they will surely make your family and friends smile. The good thing about Christmas posters is that they can be easily removed when the season is over. Christmas stockings and cards are also perfect to make the walls appealing. Visit malls or even online shops to get some ideas on what to display on your walls. 

Show off your DIYs

Starting your DIY projects for the holidays is always a great thing to do, especially during your free time. Bring out your glue and paint and start making your wreath now. Prep your home before decorating it. Display Christmas cards on the walls or even on your shelves. You can always get satisfaction whenever you display your masterpieces. 

Spending more quality time with the family

Decorating the home is one of the best bonding activities that you can do with your family. Christmas is one of the most-awaited seasons of the year and both kids and adults are excited about this. You can also teach toddlers how to decorate the walls and add ornaments to the Christmas tree. 

Decorating Your Walls For the Holidays

Naughty or nice poster in interior

Christmas is fast approaching! In the Philippines, you can already feel the spirit of the holidays when you hear Christmas songs being played everywhere and dazzling decors that will make your home stand out in the neighborhood. If you are still looking for the right decor to spice up your home, start with the walls as there are a lot of creative inspirations that will make your home look appealing and inviting.

Christmas wall decorations

Christmas is one of the most-awaited seasons of the year. This is also the time to transform your home into a fairytale-like abode. You actually have the freedom how to make it wonderful with interesting ideas you have. With a little creativity and the right decorations, you will be able to have an appearance that is inviting and festive. 

These days, it is common to decorate the home with a theme in mind. Themes may be different at times as long as they coincide with the colors or subject. For instance, Winter-themed Christmas is usually decorated with the colors white and silver. Thus, your home will have a stylish and trendy look that will take you and your home to the North Pole. You may also add modern art with silver elements and textured ornaments. What makes it more interesting is the addition of snowflakes that will make your home look cooler. 

You may have an idea and just add the necessary elements to successfully achieve it. Sometimes, we think that transforming your home will be costly, but there are certain ways to still achieve it without breaking the bank. The most important thing is you put your heart into this project and everything will look lovely. 

Christmas posters

Posters are one of the most commonly used wall decors that are used in homes and offices. There is a wide range of choices and are available in different designs, sizes, and finishes. Posters are easy to use and you do not need extra effort to display them on your walls. In Artdesign, we offer different holiday poster designs that will suit your taste and theme. You can also order them online which will make things easy and convenient for you. 

Over the years, Christmas poster designs are usually that of Santa, Christmas tree, garlands, reindeer, snowmen, and wrapped presents. These poster designs are cool as they are and all you have to do is pick a spot in your home where you can display them. Christmas posters have colors of their own that will complete the festive theme. It is common to see the colors red, green, gold, silver, and white. As such, with proper color coordination, your home will be perfect before the Christmas party begins. 

Other cool Christmas decors

Posters are not only the decors that will transform your home or office. There are other choices to upgrade your walls this season. Examples are canvases, wreaths, garlands, snowflakes, lights, and wall stickers. You can always visit shops to look for the right decor. Just remember that the spirit of Christmas is not only about decorations. It’s about celebrating the coming of our Saviour to our lives. 

Create Fun Memories With Your Family

One of the ways to have fun memories with your family is by being involved in planning fun activities. This is your opportunity to experience to experience special moments that will bond the ties among the family members. As experts would say, “Spending time with the family takes planning, but it’s a good investment.” With a little effort, you can turn bonding into a lifetime of funny and lasting memories. What makes it more wonderful is that you can display these moments on your wall with personalized posters. A timeless wall design that will surely be adored by your family and friends. 

Create a family garden

Encourage every family member to get their hands dirty by creating a patch in the garden where you can plant vegetables or flowers. Plant seeds into the soil and watch them grow and bloom. It is also recommended to plant herbs and spices that you can use in your dishes in the future. The good thing about this is that you are not just planting for the kitchen. You are also making the backyard look attractive. Don’t forget to take photos of your family members doing the project and the plants that are growing. Think of it as a simple project that will benefit you and the environment. 

Plan a trip with the family

Set a budget and suggest a place where you can have a vacation with your family. Ask them what they want to do and where they want to go. In the Philippines, there are cool places to go and have a staycation. There are tourist spots that are at par with the rest of the world. Examples are Palawan, Siargao, and Carmen. You can also plan to go to museums, parks, and others. 

Plan a family photoshoot

You have a choice if you want to have a family portrait. Either do this on your own or by a professional in a studio. You can schedule a portrait session at a local studio or a photographer who can capture those candid moments. The photos need not be kept in an album as well. Have them in frames and display them in the living room or your bedroom. You can also have them printed on a poster and personalize your rooms. Arrange them in a great layout and create wall art that will make memories.

Prepare meals together

Another cool and interacting activity you can do with your family is preparing your meals. Studies have shown that kids who dine frequently with their parents have improved academic performance, increased self-esteem, and a reduced risk of obesity. Regular dinnertime together is also associated with open communication between parents and kids. 

Be in touch with nature

Another great activity that you can do with your family is hiking and camping. Not only that you will be able to spend quality time with your kids, but you will also enjoy the beauty of nature and the benefits they give. The natural scenery can help you calm down as well as your kids. This is also a good opportunity for you to document your activity through photos. You can then display the images on the walls to remind you of the fun times you have spent with your family.

The Colors Of Christmas

Winter is here Christmas sock poster

In the Philippines, you will know that the Christmas season is coming when you are already hearing Christmas songs being played in malls, radio, or on television. Listening to those melodies will make you think of the presents that you have to prepare for your relatives, friends, and loved ones. Needless to say, the Christmas atmosphere can easily be felt with the colors seen around us. With green, red, gold, and silver surrounding us, the spirit of Christmas will surely make you hum your fave song!

Green

Green is the color of life and mystery. During winter, all of the other plants die, except for holly bushes and fir trees as they remain evergreen. These two plants survive even in the harsh conditions of the season. Romans during those times would weave holly wreaths and hang on their doors and wall. The wreaths signify the desire to see the rebirth of the sun and return of the summer. As such, green is associated with life. The color is also associated with nature and can give a refreshing and rejuvenating feeling. 

Red

In contrast with the green, red represents blood and death. This is one of the reasons why people started adding red berries to their green holly wreaths. Aside from the attractive appearance of the wreaths, the colors represent the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In addition to these, red symbolizes Christ’s teachings of unconditional love. If you are also wondering why Santa wears red? It is the color of the robes of bishops as well as what St. Nicholas wore. 

Gold

Gold is the color of the sun and light. It is also the color of extravagance, wealth, riches, and excess. It is also one of the presents brought by one of the three wise men to the infant Jesus. It is also the color of the star that the three wise men followed. In addition to these, gold represents the gift of eternal life as promised by Christ.

Blue

During medieval times, blue dye is more expensive than gold. This is the reason why blue-colored garments are used only by royal families and wealthy families. This color is also associated with Mother Mary and why many images and statues of her have the color on her robe. This is also considered as one of the cool colors that create a relaxing and calming vibe to the interior.

White

White is the color of purity. This is why the color is associated with Jesus Christ. He brought light in the dark and saved us from our sins. He is spotless, sinless, and pure. White is also important to churches during Christmas around the globe.

Purple 

Purple is the main color of the Advent season. It represents fasting and repentance and the altars of churches around the globe are covered with purple cloth. It is also the color of royalty and the first candle of the Advent Wreath is purple. 

Pink

This color is used during the third Sunday of Advent. It represents love and joy and the shift from repentance to joyous celebration.

Manila typo poster

Manila typo poster

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is rich in culture and tradition. It is also a historical city as seen in the infrastructures and architecture. Get the chance to decorate your walls with a cool and impressive poster that will make your room trendy and extraordinary especially with other posters from the collection of Artdesign.

The Mayon Poster – A Magnificent View

Mayon poster

Artdesign gives you fantastic and trendy posters that will surely add life to your rooms. We have a wide range of poster designs that will suit your decoration needs. The Mayon poster is one of the impressive posters that will not only add to the aesthetics of your home. This can also be used in travel agency companies to promote tourism in the Philippines. Rean on to know more about the amazing volcano and how this print can boost the overall appearance of your rooms. 

The Mayon volcano

Mayon volcano, also known as Mount Mayon, is one of the active volcanoes in the Philippines. It is located in the province of Albay in Bicol region. It is considered to be one of the popular tourist destinations in the country due to its symmetric conical structure. Mayon volcano is also regarded to be a sacred mountain in Philippine mythology.

On July 20, 1938, Mayon volcano was declared to be the first national park in the Philippines. UNESCO declared the volcano as the centerpiece of the Albay Biosphere Reserve in 2016. A very active volcano that is constantly monitored by PHIVOLCS. 

Mayon volcano in Philippine mythology

The Philippines is rich in culture and tradition as well as numerous practices. In Philippine mythology, interesting stories are told that explain the origins of various things including landscape and waterscape. 

The myth of the origin of Mayon volcano is as interesting as the love stories that you have read or watched on television. It tells the story of star-crossed lovers that has a tragic ending, thus giving birth to the crown jewel of Albay. 

The legend is about the beautiful maiden, Magayon, who lived in Ibalon. She is also the daughter of the chief of the tribe, Makusog. Men from different places were so enamored by her beauty that they visited Ibalon just to get a glimpse of the maiden. 

One of the suitors was Pagtuga, a warrior and chief of Iraga, who tried to court Magayon by bringing various kinds of precious treasures, like gold, and jewels. However, Magayon was not moved by this gesture. 

Magayon also loved to bathe in the Yawa river. While bathing, the maiden slipped on the rocks and almost drowned if not for the help of Pangaronon who saved her. This led to a good relationship between the two characters. Magayon eventually asked Makusog for Magayon’s hand in marriage. This was immediately approved by Makusog as he wished only for the happiness of her daughter. 

The news about the wedding reached Pagtuga who then kidnapped Makusog and threatened to kill him if Magayon refused to marry Pagtuga. As such, Magayon married Pagtuga to save her father. 

On the day of the wedding, Pangaronon went to the place of the wedding to try to stop the celebration. A battle erupted between Pagtuga and Pangaronon in which the former was struck by the latter. As Magayon and Pangaronon were about to hug each other, a poisoned arrow struck Magayon. 

While kneeling and watching Magayon die, Pangaronon was stabbed by the soldiers of Pagtuga. The two lovers were buried together. Years have passed and the people observed that the land where the lovers were buried started to rise. The mountain that rose from the burial site is now known as Mayon Volcano. 

It is also believed that when the volcano is about to erupt, Magayon is being bothered by Pagtuga. On the other hand, when the volcano is calm, it is believed that Pangaronon is hugging Magayon. 

Beauty and a touch of nature on your walls

The Mayon poster is one of the prides of Artdesign. It is a multifunctional art that can easily be displayed on the walls. The natural colors and image of the volcano can instantly add a touch of nature to your space. The display of the poster can also show your love and admiration for the famous destination of the country. 

Jeepney poster

Jeepney poster

Jeepneys are public transport that is unique to the Philippines. Just like the jeepneys that we know today, they also have a colorful history that can be traced back to the American occupation. Since then, Philippine jeepneys has become a reflection of Filipinos being resilient, innovative, and optimistic.