Beyond Limits

A woman in a red dress follows a pale road toward blue mountains in Angie's painting Woman in Red. Her vivid skirt sweeps across a golden field, while the road curves beyond view, leaving the destination to the imagination.

The painting offers a fitting introduction to Beyond Limits, the fifth annual exhibition of the Angels of Rendu, which opened on October 1, 2026, at the LRI Design Plaza in Makati City. The exhibition celebrates the work of young artists from Hospicio de San Jose, including artists with special needs, and the community that supports their creative growth.

The Rotary Club of Manila has partnered with Hospicio de San Jose, the country's first and oldest social welfare institution, for more than 75 years. The Angels of Rendu Art Club began in 2019 through the initiative of Rotarian and painter Past Director Phillip Ong, together with resident artists at Hospicio, including Angie, a gifted foot-painter. It has since grown into a community of more than 15 young artists.

Behind each finished canvas are hours of practice, experimentation and revision. Some of the artists paint with their feet, making deliberate choices in color, composition and form that reflect their individual perspectives.

Glody's Isda sa Himpapawid draws viewers into a vivid blue world where brightly colored fish appear above a lively gathering of forms. Ysabelle's The Future I Once Dreamed Of offers a quieter scene: a seated figure in green rests back-to-back with a teddy bear against a spare gray background. The works invite viewers to consider the artists' imaginations and the stories each painting may hold.

In his welcome remarks, Rotary Club of Manila President Reggie Yu told the artists: "Your work deserves this space, our attention, and our applause." He encouraged visitors to learn the artists' names, spend time with their work and share it with others.

Yu thanked the sisters and staff of Hospicio de San Jose for sustaining the artists' community, and recognized Administrator Sr. Martha Abejero Gamolo, DC, for her leadership and partnership.

He also gave special recognition to Project Chairman Past Director Phillip Ong, whose commitment to Hospicio began in 2010, before the art club was established. For 16 years, Ong has shared his time, talent and resources with Hospicio and its residents, helping young artists develop their skills and discover what they can create.

Long-time Hospicio de San Jose Committee Co-Chairman Raymond N. Davis has also helped carry the commitment forward. Yu credited their efforts, alongside the leadership of STAR Rotarian Myles Yeo Tan and Atty. Job Gesmundo, with helping bring exhibition sales to new heights.

The exhibition also benefited from the support of venue hosts Mr. and Mrs. Toni Lo, Celestino Palma III, who presented the artworks, and Architect Franklin Tee, who provided art materials. Yu also thanked Rotary Club of Manila Foundation Chairman and RCM Immediate Past President Raoul C. Creencia, fellow Rotarians, collectors, donors and friends.

All proceeds from painting sales and donations will go directly toward rehabilitating Hospicio de San Jose's Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Clinic. Each purchase will bring a work of art into a new home while helping support essential care for Hospicio's residents.

The Angels of Rendu are named after Blessed Rosalie Rendu, a Daughter of Charity remembered for her compassionate service to people in need. The exhibition reflects that spirit through the time, guidance and resources offered to the artists, alongside the ongoing care provided at Hospicio.

President Reggie Yu invited the public to visit Beyond Limits, explore the catalogue and consider purchasing a painting or making a donation. He said he hopes each participating artist will feel the recognition that comes when someone values their work: “My work matters. Someone sees what I have to offer.”

“Beyond Limits” runs from October 2 to 25, 2026, at the LRI Design Plaza, 210 Nicanor Garcia Street, Makati City.

Proceeds from painting sales and donations will support the rehabilitation of Hospicio de San Jose’s Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Clinic.