JOSE T. Joya Gallery recently hosted the art exhibit “Kingkoy” last Feb. 28 to March 6. It took place at the gallery located at the University of the Philippines Cebu and showcased the works of 20 young artists in the city: Alcy, Bart Bros, Art by Bred, Cypho, Cyrus Acellanosa, Dalnold Laotinco, Dennis Calag, Elna, Gadu Duaso, Hex, Kano, Kim Bartz, Marielle Ardiente, Nova, Oni, Remenese, Sick, Sleepy, Siamese Rat and Tresh.

The launch of the exhibit had performances by Intonarumori, Folding Bed, Kryptic Skulls, Truncus, Cross Three Runs, Pervs, Suburban Rats, Eusphorus, Tigbas and Kana.

“Kingkoy” was an exhibit curated by Oni; an idea that came up over pizza with friends. It celebrated the idea of Lowbrow art, an unconventional art movement with various influences like punk music, graffiti and underground comics, to name a few, and created in different forms from paintings, sculptures to digital art. The group exhibit was a showcase of works in different forms that celebrated one’s childhood.

“As we grow into adults, we still use these (childhood memories) to relax,” said Oni.

“Kingkoy” acknowledged cartoons as something that bears meaning more than just shows watched by children. These are early influences that kickstarted the imagination and showed the possibilities if one just lets the mind run wild.