This book is published in conjunction with the solo exhibition of Filipino artist Jose Santos III at the UP Vargas Museum in July and August 2013.

'Jose Santos III is known for his narrative trompe l’oeil in earlier works. In Confertum, collecting crowds, Santos III focuses his gaze on still life objects. This exhibit reveals the artist’s long time fascination with how much value mundane objects can convey by virtue of assimilation or vicarious histories from lives around it. Collecting is something the artist does by instinct. Grouping his finds and bringing them to his canvas is a discrete organic decision built around his daily affairs. He assumes the role of a memory scavenger and a storyteller. Particularly in this exhibit, he explores the discursive nature of the objects he has collected to make the audience feel that beyond good skill, artists are keen in observing the world and keeping track of its multifaceted wisdom.' -from museum's website.