IF YOU’RE on the lookout for artworks by local artists, then the recent art shows that made its rounds in the city must have been the perfect time for you to spot a new favorite.

The VDFS Art Mindanao 2017 showcased a most impressive collection of artworks by both young and seasoned artists. It was the biggest gathering of painters and sculptors to date.

Spearheaded by a group of artists, the Tabula Rasa, the series of art exhibits that ran for more than a month from April through May was showcased in seven malls and five hotels throughout the city.

In doing so, Tabula Rasa and its partners, aim to make Davao city the center of Mindanao art and culture.

I was able to visit a good number of exhibitions and noted down the names of the artists I want to follow, and perhaps own a piece to add to my personal collection.

Form the pool of Davao artists, I am admiring the works of Dominick Pilapil, Kim Valle, Roy Bollozos, Daryl Descallar along with Ken Medenilla, whom I spotted in an earlier exhibit and Ega Carreon, whose artwork is on my wall for years now.

I am pretty sure this effort of the group in partnership with VDFS will encourage more artists to come out of their shells and add their names to the growing list of local artists.

Congratulations to the organizers and its numerous sponsors. May Davao and Mindanao art flourish!

Email me at jinggoysalvador@yahoo.com. For more lifestyle & travel stories, visit www.ofapplesandlemons.com &www.jeepneyjinggoy.com