HIMBON book captures Iloilo art for new generation

By Mariela Angella Oladive

HIMBON Contemporary Ilonggo Artists Group has launched its first coffee table book, marking a milestone in the organization’s eight-year effort to promote contemporary art in Iloilo and Western Visayas.

The 110-page publication was unveiled July 5 at the Main Activity Center of Festive Walk Mall Iloilo.

The book chronicles the collective’s artistic journey through member profiles, selected artworks, and the stories behind them.

It also documents HIMBON’s exhibitions, major projects, and organizational milestones while recognizing the institutions, partners, and supporters that have contributed to its growth.

“HIMBON proves to be a strong force of artistic influence with the publication of its first-ever HIMBON Coffee Table Book,” said HIMBON President Carol Salvatierra.

“A tangible legacy encapsulating HIMBON’s contributions to art within Iloilo and the region, this book features the artists and their works, with highlights of their achievements in the field of art,” she added.

Founded in September 2017 by Gina Apostol, Marrz Capanang, Vic Fario, and Harry Mark Gonzales, HIMBON has grown into one of Western Visayas’ leading multidisciplinary artists’ organizations.

The group’s name comes from the Hiligaynon word “himbon,” which means “to come together and assemble,” reflecting its role as a collective of artists working across disciplines.

In addition to reproductions of members’ artworks, the coffee table book features artist profiles, a timeline of exhibitions and projects, photographs of significant events, and a members’ directory documenting the collective’s evolution.

The publication was produced by a committee composed of Aivee Genson, Althea Villanueva, Mark Vincent Java, Salvatierra, Edgardo Saulda Gonzales Jr., Rachelle Acla Kim, and Vic Nabor.

Artist Ed Defensor, one of HIMBON’s advisers, said the coffee table book stands as a testament to the collective’s resilience and commitment to artistic excellence.

Recalling the group’s beginnings in his studio-residence, Defensor said HIMBON was established at a time when many artists’ collectives in Iloilo struggled to survive.

He attributed the group’s longevity to its determination to overcome challenges and continually pursue excellence.

“What sets Himbon apart is its willingness to confront challenges head-on, never retreating, always pushing forward in pursuit of excellence,” he said.

Defensor also cited the collective’s Dinagyang mural at Iloilo City Esplanade 1 as one of its landmark achievements.

He described the mural as a work that captures the spirit of Ilonggo culture while contributing to Iloilo City’s identity as a center for contemporary art.

The launch also featured an art exhibition showcasing works by HIMBON members and highlighting the diversity of contemporary artistic practices in Iloilo and Western Visayas.

As the collective enters its ninth year, the publication serves as both a historical record of its achievements and a testament to its continuing role in promoting contemporary Ilonggo art.

Coffee table books have become an important marketing and archival tool for cultural organizations, helping preserve artistic heritage, expand public awareness, and create additional revenue opportunities through publication sales.

The HIMBON coffee table book is available in hardcover for an introductory price of PHP 850 per copy.

Copies may be purchased at Urban Inn Hotel on Luna Street in La Paz, Iloilo City, or at the Iloilo Hall of Justice along Bonifacio Drive in Danao.