Collaboration can strengthen bonds and bring life to projects. With insights from these Artists & Co. creatives, MEGA learns how they celebrate individuality and togetherness
Collaboration is the lifeblood of the creative industry, pouring energy into projects and inspiring creativity. It’s vital because it brings together diverse perspectives, skills, and talents, elevating the quality of work beyond what any individual could achieve alone. For their 10th anniversary, Artists & Company (ACM) come together to celebrate their individual achievements and collective efforts to flourish Filipino art.
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Xeng Zulueta
Fostering a collaborative environment, Xeng believes it’s crucial for merging different perspectives and ideas, ultimately leading to richer outcomes. “Artists & Company has provided invaluable support by offering resources, networks, and clientele. As my agents, they opened up new opportunities for collaborations and projects that we might not have access to otherwise, enabling us to expand our artistic vision,” she says. Reflecting on her partnership with MEGA that gave her her first break 25 years ago, she shares, “The last two and a half decades have been transformative and definitely shaped my approach to creative projects in several ways.” Xeng recalls her early collaboration experience with MEGA, where she had the opportunity to work alongside seasoned professionals. “I consider myself extremely lucky to have begun my career before the internet and before any social media.”
Offering advice to emerging creatives, Xeng emphasizes the importance of cultivating relationships, staying open-minded, communicating effectively, establishing mutual goals, fostering trust and respect, embracing diversity, and staying persistent and resilient in the face of challenges. These principles, she believes, are essential for navigating the industry landscape and fostering meaningful collaborations in one’s career.
Alan Segui
Alan Segui’s insights offer a nuanced understanding of collaboration within the creative industry, shedding light on the importance of supportive environments, professional standards, passionate teams, memorable experiences, and advice for fellow photographers. “Being able to work alongside talented people in the industry, I think it’s important to be in an environment that uplifts each. Being with creatives with different levels of experience also opens our eyes to fresh perspective,” he says.
Alan stresses the importance of continuous practice, experimentation, and active participation within collaborative teams. “I’d say keep shooting and keep putting your work out there. Don’t be afraid to experiment and don’t hesitate to give your input whenever you’re part of a team.”
MV Isip
MV Isip highlights the power of collaboration within Artist & Company. She candidly discusses the challenges of freelance videography, emphasizing the toll it takes on mental health without a supportive network. Through ACM, she found not only creative synergy but also emotional support, countering the loneliness of freelancing. “They really encouraged me, validated my work, and trained me to put myself out there,” she explains. “It feels like such a minor thing, but claiming the title of director really taught me to become more assertive and helped me see a career path beyond just making small digital ads or mini fashion films for magazines.”
In advice to emerging creatives, MV encourages proactive engagement and emphasizes the importance of finding one’s creative community amidst industry complexities, advocating for seizing opportunities and reaching out to like-minded artists. “Shoot your shot! Reach out to artists who admire! Schedule test shoots! It’s a jungle out there, so best to find your people.”
Trish Shishikura
Trish draws attention to the importance of cooperation at Artists & Company Manila in terms of promoting creativity and innovation. She acknowledges MEGA for shaping her approach to creative projects, recalling breakthrough moments such as being featured in Versace’s anniversary campaign. She shares insights from collaborations with industry leaders as she stresses the value of trust, respect, and diversity in fruitful collaborations. “I had a special moment witnessing Shaira’s creative exchange with BJ, recognizing the rare insight into their collaborative process,” she recalls “These opportunities, facilitated by esteemed entities like MEGA, allow me to collaborate with industry titans, fostering invaluable experiences and connections.”
Encouraging emerging creatives to stay true to themselves while embracing new opportunities, Trish emphasizes the transformative potential of collaborative endeavors. “Dive in, stay true to yourself, and watch those collaborations take your journey to thrilling new heights!”
Josh Tolentino
Josh Tolentino points out the sense of belonging and appreciation that teamwork provides, as well as how it stimulates his creativity by introducing him to fresh ideas and solutions. Reflecting on his partnership with MEGA, Josh recognizes the magazine’s role in nurturing professional relationships and expanding his perspective on photography. He credits the publication for broadening his horizons and facilitating growth in his craft, recalling a memorable collaboration experience, particularly his MEGA Entertainment cover shoot with Elisse Joson, where synergy among creatives led to a successful outcome.
Offering advice to emerging creatives, Josh encourages them to prioritize their growth as artists and remain open to collaboration opportunities. “Do what you think is going to contribute to your growth as an artist. You’ll never know, there will be other artists along the way that will coincide with your vision and creative approach,” he states. “Be open to constructive criticism and make a solution around it, because that is how you grow in your craft.”
Paolo Pineda
Paolo likens collaboration to assembling the best team on set, where each member contributes their unique style and ideas, enhancing the dynamic and excitement of the photoshoot, often leading to unexpected and remarkable editorials. Reflecting on his experience with Artists & Company, he expresses gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside top mentors and creatives in the industry, fueling his excitement and creativity. Paolo credits his longstanding partnership with MEGA for shaping his approach to creative projects, “Working with MEGA has been an incredible journey filled with unforgettable milestones and collaborative experiences,” he says. “From my very first fashion and beauty editorial to landing my first cover, shooting my 1st out-of-town and out-of-the-country shoot. Each ‘first’ has marked a significant chapter in my career.”
Sharing his advice, he says, “Stay open-minded and receptive when collaborating with different artists. Be like a sponge, soaking up inspiration and ideas. Remember, this is an opportunity to unleash your creativity and work with the best people in the industry.”
Cats del Rosario
Cats del Rosario’s views highlight mutual respect and knowledge sharing among creative artists, which promotes growth and inspiration through on-set experimentation. Expressing gratitude for Artists & Company’s support and familial atmosphere, she acknowledges the invaluable personal and professional growth experienced alongside fellow creatives. Grateful for the opportunities and recognition received through MEGA, Cats cherishes the trust, belief, and support extended to her by the industry and the publication, contributing to her growth and success as a makeup artist and hairstylist.
Cats emphasize the importance of gratitude, humility, and good working relationships in navigating the industry landscape. She encourages aspiring artists to cherish every learning experience and acknowledge the mentors, collaborators, and colleagues who have played a role in their journey. “It’s important to be grateful for each learning experience, never forgetting all the people who have helped mentored, worked, and collaborated with me to achieve where I am today,” she says. “It has led us to have good working relationships within work and even on some personal level.”
Justine Arcega-Bumanlag
Justine Arcega-Bumanlag shares her understanding of the importance of fostering collaboration within Artists & Company, emphasizing its role in achieving shared objectives with ease and camaraderie. Reflecting on the company, she recounts how the agency’s support and guidance have enabled her to realize her vision globally, opening doors to international opportunities and collaborations.
Justine delves into her experiences with MEGA, “First, love what you do. Everything else will follow. When you love it, you will harness your career by taking opportunities. Make it possible by taking risks. When you accept the challenge, research. Absorb inspiration but make it your own. Be open to constructive criticism, learn from others, and adapt. Adjust when needed but still remain to be your unique self. It will be a long, tiresome journey. But it will be rewarding. Above everything else, always be grateful and sincere for all the experiences you have had along the way, big or small. Everything counts.”
Creatives can flourish in collaborative environments by fostering open communication, respecting each other’s expertise, and embracing a spirit of cooperation. By pooling their strengths and resources, creatives can amplify their impact, unlock new possibilities, and bring their visions to fruition in ways that surpass solitary endeavors. With Artists & Company a decade in, limitations don’t exist without one another.
Photos: ARTISTS & COMPANY
