• CHRYSEE G. SAMILLANO
Various celebrated Filipino artists are currently holding an art exhibit at Charlie’s Art Gallery of Italia Restaurant, Paseo Verde, Brgy. Mandalagan, Bacolod City that runs from July 29 to August 15.
Titled “Icons of Filipino Creativity”, the exhibit showcases the works of Angelito Antonio, Arturo Luz, Brian Uhing, Diosdado Lorenzo, Edgar Doctor, Fb Concepcion, Gerry Tan, Gus Albor, Hermes Alegre, Isidro Ancheta, Juvenal Sanso, Jerry Navarro, Lao Lianben, Lydia Velasco, Ramon Orlina, and Romeo Tabuena.
Icons of Filipino Creativity is a gathering of celebrated names in Philippine art, each offering a unique lens into the Filipino spirit. Though their styles vary—from expressive strokes to calm minimalism, from sculpture to surreal figuration—their works share a quiet power that draws you in, the artist’s statement said.
The exhibition brings together different generations and approaches, showing how diverse expressions can live together in one space. Some artists focus on the everyday, others dive into memory, emotion, or form—but all of them show what it means to create with purpose. Their pieces speak to each other across time, medium, and mood. You may notice contrast in color, rhythm, or texture—but also a sense of connection that binds them all. The show is a reminder of how rich and layered Filipino creativity truly is. It’s a moment to pause, appreciate, and take pride in how our artists continue to shape and reflect our culture through their work, the statement added.
Each piece invites reflection—not just on the artist’s intent, but also on the viewer’s own experience. There’s no single message, only an open space to connect with the work in your own way. In today’s fast-paced world, art like this slows us down and brings us back to what matters. It’s a simple but powerful reminder of how creativity continues to be part of our everyday lives.
Guests of honor at the opening were Dr. Maristel Sanchez and Richard Ibasco.*
