As far as he can remember, Gabby Lichauco was only seven years old when he started to draw. His parents would enroll him in art classes during summer.
Aside from drawing, he also had a lot of hobbies and interests to explore – just like any other normal kid.
“I like toys that you can dismantle and put them together to create something new – just like Lego,” says interior designer Lichauco.
Lichauco is the founder of Openstudio, a multi-disciplinary design consultancy that focuses on space, installations and objects, and Newfolk, a creative platform for innovative designers, artists and producers.
“In 2006, while studying in Milan, I had the chance to attend Open Studio, an event where design studios and architectural firms opened their doors to the public. It was a great idea especially if you’re curious and want to explore a designer’s workspace, you get to witness that firsthand,” says Lichauco. Inspired by this event, Lichauco decided to open his own design studio.
Openstudio thrives on diverse ideas and exchanges, collaborating seamlessly with a range of disciplines including architects and designers. The studio boasts an interesting mix of practices and projects – from creating spaces, exhibitions and product design to research and development and curatorial work.
“I wanted to introduce to my clients the whole multidisciplinary practice which wasn’t as popular as it is right now. We do different projects and we are not stuck with one sort of practice. I got the idea and the experience from living in Italy — seeing and observing designers and architects. Collaborating with others not only enhances personal learning but also fosters a unique experience and discipline,” Lichauco says.
Exposure
Lichauco, with a master’s degree in Industrial Design from Scuola Politecnica di Design in Milan, emphasizes the significance of the educational environment beyond the confines of the institution.
“It’s not just about the school in Milan; it’s about the environment that exposes you to different creative disciplines. It’s one of those places in Europe where you can just hop on a train, visit different countries, traverse varied cities and immerse in different cultures. It’s more than just being stuck in a building and learning from your professors; it’s more your exposure to the world outside,” Lichauco shares.
A seasoned exhibitor at various international trade shows and exhibits, Lichauco has participated in the 2017 Venice Art Biennale, 2016 XXI Triennale and in several editions of Salone Internazionale del Mobile di Milano.
“Most of them are museums and exhibitions I’ve visited and will always remember. It’s part of my work. You expose yourself to all these exhibits and artists,” shares Lichauco, offering insight into why he finds joy in frequent trips to Italy. He goes to Milan for the design week, which happens every April.
Special projects
Currently, Lichauco is a professor of Design and Head of Special Projects at the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, School of Design and Arts.
Lichauco along with Rita Nazareno, Joselina Cruz, Dindin Araneta and Ayi Magpayo together with visual artist and Benilde president, Br. Edmundo Fernandez, FSC, are the working team of convenors of the noteworthy initiative, Benilde Open Design and Art 2024, which marks DLCU-CSB 35th year.
An initiative that welcomes unrealized projects from Benildean and non-Benildean creative practitioners, Benilde Open Design and Art is dedicated to shaping art and design sensibilities by championing innovative and collaborative projects across diverse creative disciplines within and outside the school.
The convenors share, “It’s the kind of creative democracy that should be encouraged, one that cuts across geography, social status, privilege, gender, power, disciplines and even education. As in the spirit of any Open, we would like to affirm that it welcomes all proposals across disciplines and inspirations.”
Submissions of proposals are until 31 January that will be announced by March 2024. The entries will be reviewed and selected by a committee of local and international advocates representing the creative industries. A grant of up to P300,000 net of taxes will be awarded to 10 projects to assist in bringing them to fruition. Benilde Open Design and Art will provide curatorial assistance for the installation of each project in consultation with the project proponent.