Spanish photographer Bernardo Aja brings his captivating portrait series EntreMuros to the Philippines, in a special exhibit at Instituto Cervantes de Manila. Running from April 10 to July 7, 2025, the exhibition offers a compelling visual narrative of Filipino identity through portraits taken across Cebu, Negros, and Luzon in 2018.
Presented by the Embassy of Spain in the Philippines, AECID, and Instituto Cervantes de Manila, the exhibit is held in collaboration with De La Salle College of Saint Benilde and the Intramuros Administration.
EntreMuros shines a light on individuals often overlooked in traditional storytelling, blending intimate detail with subtle irony. Through his lens, Aja captures not only the uniqueness of each subject but also the spirit of communities that thrive beyond the margins.
Bernardo Aja (b. 1973, Santander, Spain) is celebrated as one of the leading photographers of his generation. His works have appeared in prestigious international art events such as the Florence Biennale (2011), Lima Biennale (2014), and the Havana Biennale (2015).
Aja has also built an impressive career in photojournalism, working with top news agencies like Reuters, EFE, and AP. His portfolio includes portraits of global icons such as the Dalai Lama, Bill Clinton, Pelé, Fidel Castro, and the Spanish Royal Family. From 1997 to 1999, he served as personal photographer to Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori.
As part of the exhibit’s activities, Aja will lead a hands-on photography workshop titled “Trades and Chores” on April 10–11, 2025, guiding participants through Intramuros to document the people and daily work that define the historic district of Manila.
Admission is free.
For more details, visit Instituto Cervantes de Manila’s website or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/InstitutoCervantesManila.
