Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 4) – “It is during difficult times that you discover there are things that you could do that you never thought you could.”
This quote helped singer Raymond Lauchengco rediscover his visual artist side as he shared to CNN Philippines his art creations that were sold to help raise funds for displaced live events industry workers due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In an interview with CNN Philippines’ Rico Hizon on Wednesday, Lauchengco said rediscovering his love for the arts started when he was devastated by the death of his father before the pandemic and his wife and sister fell ill.
The singer added he also lost all his booking for live events both as a performer and director due to the enhanced community quarantine caused by the virus.
“It was at that point I had to turn to doing positive things because I was just surrounded by so much… so many things that I couldn’t understand or control. So I turned to making things. I just took out a few tools that I had and I started making things,” said Lauchengco.
He said he attributed his love for carpentry from his grandfather.
“My grandfather was a jedi in carpentry and mechanics also. I was the only grandchild who was allowed to stay with him in the workshop, to assist him,” explained Lauchengco.
Lauchengco made 14 artworks during the quarantine, all of which were sold out. Prior to the sale, his creations were placed in an exhibit.
“I spent so much time making them and it really helped me survive a very surreal time. So I’m very attached to them,” he said.
Lauchengco also stressed the other reason for putting up an exhibit of his artworks is he wants to pay it forward with fellow colleagues in the live events industry, especially those who lost their jobs during the pandemic.
The passion to help fellow displaced workers fuels Lauchengco to continue making art creations, as there is still a slim possibility that live events will return anytime.
“I will continue to make pieces and I will continue to make part of the proceeds to the coalition for live events because they just need help,” said Lauchengco.
