Remembering Robert Alejandro: Creatives, groups pay tribute to late artist
MANILA, Philippines – Robert Alejandro was many things to many people. He was one of the primary graphic designers of the products in Papemelroti, the beloved stationery gift shop founded by his parents. He was also one of the co-founders of Ang INK (Ang Illustrador ng Kabataan), an organization that focuses on illustration for children.
He had also been a volunteer designer for the groups championing the many causes he believed in, including PAWS, UNICEF, Leni Robredo’s presidential campaign in 2022, and World Vision, to name a few.
When Papemelroti announced the news of his passing on Tuesday, November 5, Alejandro received heartfelt tributes from the individuals, groups, and artists he had made an impact on through the years.
Ang INK
Ang INK, which Alejandro co-founded in 1991, shared a 2021 video of the artist explaining his illustration journey, and what his time at the organization had been like up to that point.
“His presence was always a reason for excitement and, during more challenging times, a reassuring north star that helped steer the organization so that it could continue charting its course,” Ang INK wrote, adding that he raffled off his collection of children’s books at a general assembly after his cancer diagnosis years ago.
“To INKies, Robert was not just a fellow artist but also a fellow dreamer, valued friend, collaborator, mentor, adviser, big brother (Kuya Robert), and supportive uncle (Tito Robert). He is a reminder to always see the world with wonder and a source of inspiration to do better not just as artists but as human beings. We are profoundly grateful for our time with him and the legacy he leaves with Ang INK,” the organization added.
Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)
Animal welfare group PAWS (Philippine Animal Welfare Society) paid its respects to Alejandro, recalling the late artist’s passion for animal welfare, the environment, and children. The organization reminisced the time Alejandro immediately created artworks for them as a donation for their fundraising initiative where they intended to sell shirts and mugs but did not have designs yet.
PAWS further shared that Alejandro was unable to personally receive his Golden Paw during PAWS’ 70th anniversary celebration in October, as he had already been seriously ill then. His sister, Meldy, received the award for him instead.
“Robert, we thank you for sharing your amazing talent with us and – oh so generously – helping speak for the voiceless. Your favorite things to draw were happy people and animals in a cheerful and colorful place. We believe you are there now,” PAWS said.
Leni Robredo
Alejandro was also the creative mind behind many of the visual designs used for Robredo’s presidential campaign in 2022, as well as the art that would later be used for Museo ng Pag-asa, where gifts and memorabilia from Robredo’s “Kakampink movement” are displayed.
“Thank you for being so much a part of the campaign, of Museo ng Pag-asa and of Angat Buhay. You have left us the invaluable gift of your friendship, your art, your generosity of spirit, and your great love for our country,” Robredo wrote on Facebook.
Fundacion Sanso
Non-profit art organization Fundacion Sanso also paid its respects to Alejandro, recalling that the late artist used his talent to be of service to others. It also shared that Alejandro was heavily involved in museum work, making significant contributions to Museo Pambata ang Museo ng Pag-asa, among many others.
“This ‘super power’ of Robert was harnessed for many programs and advocacies, and even in his simple activities that impacted the lives of many, such as his daily art and sketching lessons for children and adults during the early, unstable days of the pandemic lockdown, and his candid online talks that helped lift the spirits of aspiring artists and designers,” the organization wrote.
“Even Robert’s journey with cancer in the latter years of his life served as a source of inspiration; with his boundless optimism and kindness. We will miss the presence of a great artist, yet we are grateful for all the goodness that is his legacy. Maraming, maraming salamat, Kuya Robert!” Fundacion Sanso added.
Dogs in Philippine History
A known dog lover, Alejandro also received a tribute from Christopher Alfonso, author of the book, Dogs in Philippine History.
“Salamat po sa mga obra, Kuya Robert Alejandro, ilustrador, tagapamahala ng Papemelroti, at kampeon ng mga Aspin at Puspin. Nawa’y salubungin ka ng mga aso at pusa sa balangaw. Pahinga na sa piling ng Maykapal,” Alfonso wrote on Dogs in Philippine History’s Facebook page.
(Thank you for the creations, Kuya Robert Alejandro, illustrator, caretaker of Papemelroti, and champion of aspins and puspins. May you be met with dogs and cats over the rainbow. Rest now by the side of the Creator.)
Tarantadong Kalbo
Renowned artist Tarantadong Kalbo, meanwhile, whipped up an illustration of Alejandro and his siblings Patsy, Peggy, Meldy, and Tina – whose names make up “Papemelroti.” Alejandro, whose first name is Robert, is the “ro” in the brand’s name.
“Paalam, sir Robert,” Tarantadong Kalbo captioned the illustration, depicting Alejandro as an angel who has gained his wings.
Mark Escueta
Rivermaya drummer Mark Escueta, who was heavily involved in Robredo’s 2022 campaign, shared a photo of himself with Alejandro.
“Salamat at paalam, Robert Alejandro. Salamat sa sining ng pag-asa (Thank you and goodbye, Robert Alejandro. Thank you for the creation of hope),” Escueta wrote.
MoCAF
MoCAF (Modern and Contemporary Art Fair) remembered Alejandro as “a remarkable soul who brought healing and joy through his creativity.” The art fair housed Alejandro’s “Art for All” special exhibition in 2022.
“His art became a testament to resilience, celebrating life even amid challenges. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the art he gifted to the world. Thank you, Robert, for sharing your journey with us,” MoCAF wrote. – Rappler.com