Did You Know That Art Is Kool?

Robert Alejandro, the "ro" in Papemelroti, was an award-winning graphic artist, illustrator, designer, and one of the pillars of Philippine stationery and lifestyle industry.

But did you know that beyond designing quirky and fun stationery, Alejandro was also a passionate art advocate who wanted to make art more accessible to everyone? His iconic TV show, "Art Is Kool," became a household name in the early 2000s, inspiring countless Filipinos to embrace their creativity.

A Lifetime of Art and Inspiration

Alejandro's love for art started at an early age. Growing up, he would spend hours sketching and drawing, expressing his imagination through vibrant colors and whimsical characters. His passion for art led him to pursue a degree in Fine Arts at the University of the Philippines Diliman, where he honed his skills and developed his unique artistic style.

After graduating, Alejandro worked as a commercial artist, creating everything from advertisements to album covers. But it was his work at Papemelroti, the stationery brand he co-founded with his wife, which truly made him a household name.

Revolutionizing the Stationery Industry

Papemelroti was no ordinary stationery store. It was a whimsical wonderland filled with colorful notebooks, quirky greeting cards, and unique gift items. Alejandro's designs were instantly recognizable, with their playful characters, vibrant hues, and witty messages.

Alejandro's vision was to make art accessible to everyone, regardless of age or income. Through Papemelroti, he transformed everyday objects into works of art, bringing joy and creativity into the lives of Filipinos.

Inspiring a Nation Through "Art Is Kool"

But Alejandro's influence didn't stop at Papemelroti. His passion for art extended to television, where he hosted the groundbreaking show "Art Is Kool" on ABS-CBN.

The show was a vibrant and engaging celebration of art and creativity. Alejandro, with his infectious enthusiasm and quirky humor, introduced viewers to different art forms, from painting to sculpture to photography. He also featured talented artists and encouraged them to share their stories and experiences.

"Art Is Kool" became a huge success, inspiring countless Filipinos to embrace their creativity and pursue their artistic dreams.

A Legacy of Art and Passion

Robert Alejandro's contributions to the Philippine art and design scene are undeniable. His work at Papemelroti and his advocacy for art through "Art Is Kool" left a lasting impact on generations of Filipinos.

Even though Alejandro passed away in 2023, his legacy continues to live on through his artwork, his inspiring words, and the countless lives he touched. He will always be remembered as the man who made "Art Is Kool" and brought art into the everyday lives of Filipinos.