Pinoy art: slightly off radar but developing at its own pace.

International curator and art writer Adeline Ooi has always had a soft spot for contemporary Filipino art. A week after "judging" a two-day portfolio review at Silverlens Gallery, Ms. Ooi was still reeling from the experience. In an e-mail interview with BusinessWorld, she shared her thoughts on the Philippine art scene and how it compares to the rest of Southeast Asia, common misconceptions people have about being an artist, and Roberto Chabet's legacy.

BW: If the portfolio review is a snapshot of the immediate future of the Philippine art scene, would you be overjoyed or worried?

AO: I think I walked away invigorated by what I've seen, but this is said within the context of the big picture. It's reassuring to see there are so many enthusiastic young Pinoys who are committed to their ambition and dream of being artists.

At the same time, I am a bit worried for this new generation due to current market conditions since most gallerists, dealers, and collectors are keen to …