When I first heard about it, Conrad Manila’s long-running series entitled “Of Art and Wine” sounded right up my alley. It brought two of my favorite things together — now even more so, as it featured the art of the oh-so-talented Maria Victoria “Mav” Rufino. For this collection, her works made with watercolor and mixed media were the stuff of dreams. This was her 19th solo exhibit, and it had a befitting title — “Scintilla: Dreamscapes.”

Her nature-filled depictions and soothing strokes were like therapy for the eyes and soul. During the exhibit launch, she talked about how nature inspired her. 

She said, “I hope that my paintings will bring peace, love and compassion to the hearts of the viewers.” 

I’m no art critic, but as a patron of the arts, I can say that she expressed her intentions well with this collection. Every piece felt calming, inviting and familiar, but there was also something surreal about them at the same time. Like it takes you someplace far off. Or am I just thinking about the places this collection has been to? They’ve been a part of exhibits in the beautiful cities of San Francisco, Madrid and Paris. Impressive, either way.

As she’s always done, Mav shares part of the proceeds from her exhibits with foundations aligned with her personal advocacies: environmental care and the support of abused women and children. This particular one goes to the Child Protection Network and to the Marian Missionaries of the Philippines. Bravo, dear Mav! What a beautiful body of work for an equally beautiful purpose. Cheers to you!