A Stroll through Iloilo’s burgeoning art scene

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As the city gears up for the annual Dinagyang Festival, a celebration deeply rooted in history and tradition, art enthusiasts have the perfect opportunity to explore the diverse art exhibits scattered across the city, often referred to as the “City of Love,” in this article it may be the city of Art.

Let’s take on a journey through various galleries and exhibits that highlight not only the talent of local artists but also the cultural wealth of Iloilo.

Iloilo City has witnessed a surge in the local art scene, with numerous galleries providing a platform for talented artists to showcase their work. During the Dinagyang revelry, these galleries become hubs of creativity, offering visitors a chance to witness the meeting of tradition and contemporary expression.

Hala Bira Exhibit at Iloilo Contemporary Art Gallery:

A dynamic space for modern art, the Iloilo Contemporary Art Gallery features the works of both emerging and established local artists. The gallery offers the Hala Bira Art Exhibit of the Dinagyang Music and Arts Festival at the Museum Shop area from January 24 to 28.

Himbon’s Dinagyang Art Bazaar at Esplanade 1

Himbon has an outdoor art bazaar at the Esplanade 1 backdropped by the three-dimensional Dinagyang mural, which is also showcased in a promotional video for Iloilo City, featuring the internationally acclaimed comedian Mikey Bustos.

“Pangágda/An Invitation” at Thrive Art Projects

Located at Shops at Atria, Ayala Malls, “Pangágda/An Invitation” exhibition features the works of artists whose art practices are based in Iloilo, reflecting its name it is an invitation for viewers to discover and rediscover Ilonggo art.

“Dagyaw” at The Adoro Gallery-Museum

In collaboration with Tin-aw Art Projects, the “Dagyaw” exhibit features the works of 40 Visayan artists. The public can visit by appointment until January 30 at Prime Estate Subd., La Paz, Iloilo City.

Dagyaw, inspired by the Bisaya and Hiligaynon word for communal spirit, cooperation, and shared activity, unite artists from the region in a celebration of diverse interpretations, inspirations, and expressions of shared culture.

“Rendezvous” at The Days Hotel by Wyndham Iloilo

Experience the meeting of the past and the present at “Rendezvous” collaborative exhibit by artists Mark Vincent Java and Cristhom ‘Dodoy’ Setubal.

Hosted at Days Hotel in Atrium, you can explore not only the difference in the styles of the artist but also delve into the connection of their subject matter, like how they both uniquely capture the Ilonggo heritage and culture.

Other than these exhibits, the city also boasts a number of major museums. Read more at https://dailyguardian.com.ph/iloilo-city-a-museum-hub/

As the beats of the drums and the lively performances of Dinagyang Festival fill the streets of Iloilo City, art enthusiasts can venture into traditional artworks that pay homage to the city’s history to contemporary expressions that reflect the vibrant spirit of the festival.