CALAMANSI BLOG #5
- wjmanares
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
ALL ABOUT ARTS
by W. J. Manares
The Face of a Book: Why Book Covers Matter
A book’s cover is its first impression - the visual handshake that draws readers in before they even open the pages. It’s more than just a pretty design; it’s a powerful tool that communicates the book’s essence, sets the tone, and captures the attention of potential readers in a crowded market. A great cover can make the difference between a book being picked up or passed over.
This is why partnering with a talented artist or illustrator is so crucial. They bring a unique visual perspective that complements the written word, translating abstract ideas and emotions into imagery that resonates. My book, Isa Sa Ilang Paraan (ISIP)*, is a perfect example of this collaboration. Its cover showcases the art of Mel Araneta, part of his mind-bending "Utakan" series. Araneta’s art doesn’t just decorate the cover; it becomes an integral part of the book’s identity, inviting readers to dive into a world where words and images dance together. He is also the cover illustrator for Acitore**, an anthology I edited.
A Day to Remember: Meeting MEL ARANETA at Viva ExCon 2025
Today, November 21, 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to meet Mel Araneta himself at the Viva ExCon 2025 event in Kalibo, Aklan, where he was with his team, ATK Kolektib Opensib. Seeing them and their collaborative work was a powerful reminder of how vibrant and interconnected the creative community is. We talked about the "Utakan" series, the process of collaborating on Isa Sa Ilang Paraan, and the importance of supporting one another in the arts. We’re planning to collaborate again on my next book project, Planet of the Pangit, which will showcase his well-known painting(s) of the same title.
Supporting the Art Scene
Visiting visual arts exhibitions, attending workshops, and engaging with artists and their work helps build a thriving art scene, both in the Philippines and around the world. It provides artists with the recognition and support they need to keep creating, and it enriches our own lives by exposing us to new perspectives, ideas, and forms of beauty. Every time we step into a gallery or pick up a book with a stunning cover, we’re not just consuming art - we’re investing in the future of creativity.
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NOTE:
Why "Calamansi" Blog?
I chose the name 'Calamansi Blog' because it embodies the essence of what I want my blog to be. The calamansi, that small but vibrant Philippine lime, symbolizes joy and freshness. Just as the fruit adds a burst of flavor to any dish or drink, I want my blog to bring a fresh and uplifting perspective to the readers.
Beyond its Filipino roots, the name also resonates with me on a deeper level. 'Calamansi' bears a phonetic resemblance to the Indian words 'Kalam' (कलम), meaning 'pen' or 'writing,' and 'Anshi' (अंशी), meaning 'god's gift.' This connection suggests that my writing is more than just words on a page; it's a gift, an inspiration, perhaps even divinely guided.
My 'Calamansi Blog' represents a blend of Filipino zest and a sense of inspired creativity. It's a name that is both memorable and meaningful, reflecting my commitment to sharing content that is joyful, refreshing, and purposeful.
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W. J. Manares is the Partner/Distributor of Ukiyoto Publishing via Ukiyoto House, Philippines. He's one of Ukiyoto's prolific authors and a one-of-a-kind writer from Aklan, Philippines, authored more than 69 books and counting, a lesser-known worldbuilder and storyteller, and labelled as "the sardonic yet whimsical author of the Philippines" since 1999. You can contact him via email: wjmanares@ukiyoto.com or via SMS at +639192015217.
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