To foster connections among HR leaders, John Clements Consultants, Inc. (JCCI) and iCare organized a special event at the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (Ilomoca) on October 16, 2024. Located at Casa de Emperador in Iloilo Business Park, this exclusive event offered HR professionals the chance to explore the museum’s remarkable artworks. The highlight of the event was a fireside chat moderated by JCCI President and CEO Carol Dominguez, featuring Ed Valencia. Titled “Nourishing Minds and Souls: Insights on Art and HR,” the discussion delved into the intersection of art and creativity in human resources, offering valuable insights into how creativity can enhance workplace culture and employee engagement.
From Early Inspiration to Lifelong Passion: Ed Valencia’s Artistic Journey
Ed Valencia’s fascination with art was sparked early in life, deeply influenced by his mother, a humanities professor whose passion for the arts left a lasting imprint on him. Growing up, he was exposed to various forms of visual creativity, from visiting museums to learning about different artistic expressions. This early exposure developed his love for art, which became a vital part of his personal growth and identity. As an introvert, he found comfort in the quiet contemplation of art, which offered him an escape and a unique way of connecting with the world around him. Over time, art became not just a passion but a meaningful way to express and reflect on life.
After studying in New York, Valencia’s interest in art evolved into more than just appreciation—it became an active pursuit. He began collecting art, initially driven by his personal connection to the pieces he encountered. Collecting soon turned into both a passion and a form of investment. His work experience in culturally rich cities like New York and Milan, starting in 2010, only deepened his love for art. These cities offered Valencia the opportunity to immerse himself in various artistic communities and cultures, broadening his understanding of contemporary and traditional art forms. Over the years, his art collection grew steadily, and by 2018, Valencia transitioned from simply collecting art to sharing it with a wider audience, even selling pieces to promote the work of the artists he admired.
Creating Spaces for Art and Talent
Valencia’s journey wasn’t limited to his personal art collection. While working at Deutsche Knowledge Services in the Philippines, he recognized the hidden artistic talents among his colleagues. He saw the potential for art to serve as a bridge between personal passion and workplace engagement. As a result, he initiated unique programs within the company, such as “Rock Ed” for musicians and “Art Ed” for visual artists, transforming office spaces like the lobby into art galleries and performance areas. These initiatives didn’t just provide a creative outlet for employees but also fostered a more emotionally connected and productive workplace.
Valencia firmly believes in the role of art in making work environments more engaging and fulfilling. He views art as a tool to boost employee morale, reduce stress, and enhance creativity in corporate settings. His initiatives highlighted the powerful intersection between art and human resources, offering a fresh perspective on employee engagement and the workplace experience. Valencia continues to advocate for HR professionals to incorporate artistic programs into their corporate strategies as a means of improving overall employee satisfaction and productivity.
The Birth of Ilomoca and Supporting Local Artists
Valencia’s desire to promote and share art didn’t stop at the corporate level. In 2018, his passion for art and culture led him to establish a museum in Binondo, Manila. However, his roots in Iloilo inspired him to create a more permanent and meaningful space for his art collection in his hometown. Thus, the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (Ilomoca) was born.
Ilomoca is more than just a repository of paintings or sculptures; it serves as a dynamic space for art education and cultural engagement. Valencia envisions the museum as a place where students, educators, and local artists can connect directly with contemporary art, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of both traditional and modern works. He aims to encourage local artists to exhibit their work, providing them with the freedom to explore their creativity while also offering structure and guidance. His efforts reflect a desire to support and elevate local talent, blending the heritage of traditional Filipino art with contemporary global influences.
Art as Investment and Enjoyment
Valencia’s approach to collecting art is refreshingly simple: “Do I like it, and can I afford it?” These straightforward criteria have guided his choices and helped him build a collection that reflects both his tastes and his evolving understanding of the art world. He believes contemporary art, in particular, challenges artists to think creatively and push boundaries, which is something that resonates deeply with him.
He encourages aspiring collectors to avoid simply following trends or mirroring the purchasing patterns of influential people in their networks. Instead, he advises them to focus on finding art that speaks to them personally, something that holds emotional or intellectual significance. For Valencia, art is not only a source of personal enjoyment but also a sound investment—both financially and emotionally.
In promoting art as an investment, he advocates for a balanced approach, starting small and gradually building a collection. He emphasizes that one doesn’t need to make large investments to engage with art; what matters more is the support and engagement from management or corporate sponsors. Additionally, Valencia is particularly enthusiastic about the potential of digital art, which, while not AI-based, makes art more accessible and affordable to a broader audience.
Art Education and Engagement at Ilomoca
Valencia has big plans for Ilomoca, intending it to be more than just a traditional gallery space. His long-term vision includes contributing significantly to art education and cultural development, especially for younger generations. Art conservation is also a key part of this mission, ensuring that contemporary works are preserved for future audiences to enjoy and study. Through the museum, he aims to create direct engagement opportunities, particularly for students and educators, to deepen their connection with art and the creative process.
Valencia sees this as a way to instill a lasting appreciation for the arts, encouraging critical thinking and creative expression in both formal and informal educational settings. He hopes to inspire a new generation of art enthusiasts and practitioners by creating an inclusive, educational environment at Ilomoca.
A Lasting Cultural Legacy
Ed Valencia’s journey in the art world is a testament to the power of art not just as a personal passion but as a tool for engagement, education, and investment. His experiences, both in the corporate world and the wider community, underscore the importance of fostering creativity in various spaces. Whether in the workplace or through initiatives like Ilomoca, Valencia’s commitment to promoting contemporary art and supporting local artists reflects his desire to build a lasting cultural legacy that will inspire future generations.
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