Singing praises in paint

MORE than being a big chunk of land mass, shaped by God like a turtle, there is certainly more to Bohol than its gentle and rolling terrain. That beautiful, oval-shaped island is not only home to natural wonders but natural talents as well.

Such is the point made through a stirring display of artworks, as presented by the Qube Gallery. Bohol-Buhol 2 is a group exhibition in which the artistry of a clique of Boholano artists sings praises unto the name of their hometown.

“The exhibit showcases the wealth of Boholano artistry spanning a healthy breadth of genres from realist works that stress the island’s natural wonders to abstractions that have challenged the works of contemporary artists in the country and the world,” says the organizers.

Seventeen pairs of skillful hands pulled together a gathering of “around 60” art pieces in all. Some artworks project different visions of pride as well as varying elucidation of beauty that can be found in Bohol. Other bits of art also render laudable craftsmanship of the local folks.

The roster of artists includes Keith Ancog, Rhants Anunciado, Bethlehem Joy Bullen, Eric Catot, Henri Cainglet, Edgar Cornito, Guy Custodio, Jacquelou Curambao, Roi Ferrer, Irish Glory Gallon, Joey Labrador, Glenn Lumantao, Carlito Masalta, Sam Penaso, Rico Tompong, Jeff Sisican and guest artist Melbourne Aquino.

“The featured artists in Bohol-Buhol 2 are a vibrant mix of established artists who were natives of Bohol and who are now based in Manila, and have successfully exhibited in the Philippines and abroad. And of emerging artists some of whom are still based in their native hometown.”

While some works modestly discuss life’s merit through unassuming shades, others exude bold and lively colors that inevitably paint an overall finish of vivid imagery.

Nonetheless, not only paintings but works of sculpture were also spread out.

Easiest to call the attention were art pieces entitled “The Dance,” oil in canvas; “Greenovation,” oil in canvas; “Consummation of Existence,” acrylic on canvas; “String #2,” oil in canvas; “Musika Atbp,” mixed media; and “Mermaid,” oil in canvas.

The exhibit was opened in time for the launching of Qube Gallery at the Persimmon Plus. It will run up to Feb. 21. There is still time to catch the other facet of Bohol.