By 
I can’t recall the first time I went to Graphika Manila, but I witnessed its growth from a modest gathering to a significant event that drew a large crowd of creatives last March 1 to 2, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center.
Over two days, students and professionals alike were captivated by insightful stories and valuable wisdom shared by both new and returning speakers. “Seeing the creative community thrive in Manila and evolve over the past 20 years has been incredibly rewarding,” says Aram Beheshti, founder and lead organizer of Graphika Manila. At Graphika Manila, you will find Aram and his wife Ella running around the venue prior to the event, making sure everything runs seamlessly. They warmly greet guests, assist speakers with their needs, and oversee the tech booth to guarantee that speakers can take the stage without any issues.
Lucho Suares from State
The opening day was kicked-off by the team from the LA-based animated studio State. Lucho Suarez and Marcel Ziul, the Creative Directors of the studio, shared the story of how they first met and the creation of their animated studio, and showcased the works produced by their team. This year, they were tasked with creating the opening animation for Graphika Manila, and they shared the process behind its creation with everyone. Follow State Studio on Instagram.
Myka Arnado
They were followed by Myka Arnado, a graphic designer based in Cebu. As someone who appreciates both Deftones and Linkin Park, I was excited to hear her experiences as a fan and the designs she created inspired by both artists. Myka is a dedicated music fan who actively collaborates with musicians she likes, including the Japanese metalcore band Crossfaith, for whom she has created logos and artworks. She also showcased several of her collaborations with brands such as Nike, Adidas, UNIQLO, and the crowd favorite Cebu Best Dried Mango. Visit Myka Arnado‘s Instagram account to check out her works.
Gerald Feliciano from Proudhive Creative
Myka was followed by Gerald Feliciano from Proudhive Creative. The managing and motion graphics director of the creative video agency took the stage to showcase remarkable projects completed by his team. Two of which would be a highly detailed and visually striking animation of Fil-Am actress Liza Soberano for BYS Cosmetics, also a charming and engaging animated music video-style advertisement for CDO Idol Cheesedog showcasing the girl group Bini dancing and singing to their song “Ikaw Ang Idol.” Check out Proudhive Creative on Instagram.
A 30-minute break was given for everyone to either get snacks, visit the restroom, or take a moment to stretch.
Raco Ruiz
After the break, c ontent creator, versatile talent, and visual artist Raco Ruiz shared his narrative about his “obsession” with cereals, his vibrant yet dark artworks, his artistic collaborations with local musicians, and how his art heals him. In addition to discussing his visual art, he shared insights about his journey as a content creator and gave tips on how to thrive at it. Check out Raco Ruiz ‘s works.
Ardhira Putra
Ardhira Putra, a Motion Designer and Illustrator from Jakarta, captivated the audience with his vibrant and vintage animation style. He draws significant inspiration from Japanese retro style illustrations, with vivid bursts of color evident throughout his works. In addition to talking about his collaborations with artists such as Epik High, Engelwood, Yung Bae, Niagra Triangle, and brands like Coke Studio, MTV, Samsung, and Apple, he highlights the significance of pursuing what you love and having faith in your passion. Get inspired by Ardhira Putra‘s works.
Joshua Davis
I remember that I attended Graphika Manila a decade ago, as I vividly recall the fascinating presentation by visual artist and technologist Joshua Davis. To wrap up the first day of this year’s Graphika, Joshua Davis took the stage to showcase his past works and what he has been doing. He excels at transforming his creations by embracing the assistance of AI, skillfully manipulating his own works to produce unique and extraordinary online pieces. Check out works of Joshua Davis.
Marcel Ziul from State
On the second day of Graphika Manila, Marcel Ziul from State took the stage. Marcel’s presentation took a more personal approach, rather than building on what he and Lucho had presented the day before. His presentation was deeply personal, reflecting on his past traumas, his failures, and ultimately discovering his true purpose. These events in his life shaped him into the person he is now. It was such a moving presentation that I nearly cried after the talk.
Dan Matutina
If there is anyone among this year’s speakers whose work I am familiar with, it is Dan Matutina. As a graphic artist and illustrator, my first encounter with Dan’s work happened when we featured him in the magazine I used to work with, and he later contributed several pieces for the publication. At Graphika, he discussed the work structure and discipline at Plus63, emphasizing the importance of balancing the pursuit of income with the need to create for personal happiness and satisfaction; what makes your soul and heart happy. His illustrations have appeared in international publications such as WIRED Magazine, The Guardian, and The Wall Street Journal. Check on updates about Dan Matutina and Plus63.
Danae Gosset
Danaé Gosset, a visual artist from Pencil Studios, was the next speaker. The work of the French artist combines ethereal illustrations brought to life through captivating animations, creating a mesmerizing experience, like taking you to a new world. She has worked alongside Netflix, Warner Music, Hermes, and Spotify. She created visualizations for several songs by the late rapper Mac Miller. Follo Danae Gosset on Instagram.
Josue Ibanez
Next, Josue Ibanez, an Immersive Experience Designer from Mexico, showed off his incredible work. I have recently been enjoying immersive experience exhibits. I have visited several exhibits in Singapore, and they were truly fascinating enjoyable, and at the same time calming. He has presented his special storytelling style at SXSW, Japan, NYC, and Las Vegas, among other locations. His notable works include the display at the Sphere in Las Vegas and his commissioned work with Tiffany and Co. Check out Josue Ibanez‘s works on Instagram.
Takashi Murakami
Upon the introduction of Japanese artist Takashi Murakami that day, the energy in the hall seemed to ignite even more. Unlike the other speakers, he opted for a sit-down interview with Graphika Manila host Margaux Cortez instead of delivering a presentation. Takashi’s works offer a whimsical quality, almost reminiscent of child-like art, and their charm lies in their strange nature. He has worked alongside iconic brands such as Louis Vuitton, Supreme, UNIQLO, Porter, Crocs, Vault by Vans, and notable figures including Pharrell Williams, Virgil Abloh, J Balvin, Billie Eilish, New Jeans, and KAWS, among others. He appeared wearing his signature smiling Flower cap, ready and eager to answer all of Margaux’s questions. Seeing him in person was surreal, and I felt extremely lucky to be present for such a monumental occasion celebrating Graphika Manila’s 20th anniversary. Follow Takashi Murakami and be updated on his art on Instagram.
Zipeng Zhu
Finally, but certainly not least, was Zipeng Zhu from Dazzle Studio. The art director and illustrator from NYC, who is truly a queen, was unquestionably my favorite speaker at this year’s Graphika Manila. In addition to his remarkable works, he has a vibrant personality that keeps everyone entertained during his presentation. He has worked alongside brands such as Adidas, Coca-Cola, Jonathan van Ness, Viacom, and Harry’s, among others. Each time he showed a video, he would change his outfit, making it incredibly fun and sparking my eagerness to be his friend hahahaha! He produces bold and dynamic typography that truly reflects his fun character. He was the ideal creative to bring Graphika Manila to a close this year. Check out the colorful world of Zipeng Zhu on Instagram.
“Graphika’s goal has always been to inspire, educate, and connect the creative community by not only networking them with each other but also by showcasing diverse voices and groundbreaking work from the speakers invited. While we always strive to hit that goal, the true measure of success is seeing the connections that come from the conference and how attendees take what they’ve learned and apply it to their own creative journey,” shares Aram when I asked him about Graphika Manila’s goal, which I believe they constantly hit. This year’s conference has left a lasting mark on me, especially as someone who openly acknowledges my inability to produce even a fraction of the art that the speakers are capable of creating. The variety of speakers consistently achieves an ideal balance at each conference. Each one shares a compeling story about their identity and the challenges they have faced on their journey to artistic freedom—an experience that hopefully would resonate with all attendees of Graphika Manila, both past and present.
Denise J. Mallabo 