Tubô Cebu Art Fair 2023: Embracing Artistic Contrasts  and Similarities

1 of 4

CEBU CITY – The vibrant world of Visayan art is set to unfold once more at the Tubô Cebu Art Fair 2023, taking place from September 15-17 at the Ayala Center Cebu. This year marks the biggest iteration of the fair.

Celebrating its fifth year, the much-anticipated event presented by the Arts Council of Cebu Foundation, Inc. and Ayala Center Cebu, has chosen “Juxtapose” as its theme, inviting attendees to explore contrasts, similarities, and the growth that emerges from such reflections.

This year’s activity boasts participation from over 500 regional artists and groups. The impressive lineup includes Agurang Artist Group, Iloilo Artist Group, EROS, Cebu Artists Inc., Studio 31, Palawan Artists Collective, Ebony Visual Artists, Dibuho, Toledo Neo Arts Group, Dayon Art Space Collective, Aninaw Art Group, Art Portal Cebu, SIHAG, Paper Jam, Regional Art Forum, Luyo Space, Bohol Pop, PISKAY, Kolor Banwa, Cuatro Marias, IMoCa, SWAC, Palomar Fine Arts Services, STUDIO UNOSINOTRA, KOMiWET, SPACE XYZ, White Brick, Happy Garaje, Solitaryo Cinco, Sleepy Sickness, SAGRADO, Tres Independentes, Florentino Art Gallery, MAVDNO, Manila Art Frames, PASPI, IMAGES, Philippine Art, Joya Awardees, and numerous individual and installation artists.

The Signature Collection will spotlight the works of esteemed artists Alex Ordoyo, Anton Quisumbing, Cezar Arro, Charlie Co, Gary Carabio, Geovanni Abing, Happy Garaje, Irish Galon, Jonas Pacifico, Khriss Bajade, Lester Amacio, Mark Belicario, Mark Copino, Melvin Guirhem, Nicole Asares, Orland Espinosa, Orley Ypon, Palmy Tudtud, Pepe Delfin, Romulo Galicano, and Yvonne Quisumbing.

“Juxtaposition, in its essence, is a reflection, a mirror that magnifies both contrasts and similarities. Through Tubô Cebu Art Fair, we aim to harness this power of juxtaposition to ignite a deeper appreciation and understanding in the art community. By placing diverse artistic expressions side by side, we not only celebrate their individuality but also the collective growth they inspire,” explained fair curator Jay Jore.

Collaborations with esteemed cultural entities such as the Cebu Art Book Fair, Cultural Center of the Philippines, and Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. add depth and dimension to the fair’s lineup. Additionally, gallery partners Mono8, Qube Gallery, and Manila Art Frames amplify the ambiance, crafting varied avenues for both artists and art aficionados to engage and connect.

Partner universities Cebu Institute of Technology University, Foundation University (Dumaguete), SWU Phinma, and the University of the Philippines, further underscore the fair’s commitment to fostering education and collaboration in the arts.

Aside from the exhibits, an enlightening panel discussion awaits art enthusiasts on September 17, from 4 pm to 5 pm at The Gallery, Ayala Center Cebu. The event has meticulously selected a versatile ensemble of speakers, including Atty. Jovi Neri, Januar Yap, and OJ Hofer. These panelists, each excelling in fields ranging from visual arts and fashion to music and literature, will delve into their distinct artistic journeys.

Attendees can anticipate insights into the inspirations behind the panelists’ works, the challenges they’ve faced, and the milestones they’ve achieved. The dialogue promises to cultivate collaboration, spark creativity, and fortify a nurturing environment for the artistic community, encouraging a vibrant exchange of ideas and experiences. Other talks will be announced in the coming days.

The Fair also features “Just A Lawyer Drawing Sports Icons,” a captivating collection by Atty. Jovi Neri, presenting 36 ready-to-frame, removable illustrations of renowned sports icons, including nine from the Philippines. Printed on specialty art paper designed to emulate the original artwork’s texture, each illustration is accompanied by Neri’s insightful commentary, revealing his artistic journey and interactions with some of the featured sports legends. With a foreword by bowling Hall-of-Famer Paeng Nepumoceno, this book is not just a visual treat but a deep dive into the confluence of art and sports.

Since its launch in 2018, Tubô Cebu Art Fair has illuminated the Southern Philippines’ cultural and creative landscape, offering a dedicated space for visual artists, aficionados, and collectors to connect, learn, and flourish.

The fair has seen remarkable growth, driven by community support and the dedication of its patrons and volunteers. With a vision to embed Visayas art into the broader national tapestry, Tubô makes it possible for even novice art enthusiasts to curate a regional art collection.

For those eager to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of Visayan art and culture, this is an event not to be missed. Dive deep into the diverse backgrounds found in the Visayas region, and let the juxtapositions inspire growth and reflection.

Tubô Cebu Art Fair is organized by the Arts Council of Cebu Foundation, Inc

For more information and updates, visit www.tubôcebu.art  and follow @Tubôcebuartfair on Facebook and Instagram.