THE Iloilo City Government launched the Iloilo Art Book: Art in the Heart of the Philippines, a 200-page coffee table book featuring the city’s art scenes and Ilonggo artists, in line with the celebration of the National Arts Month February 27.
More than 185 local artists and at least 200 artworks are featured in the book which is considered a first of its kind in the metro as it documents what has been happening at the local art scene.
The Iloilo Art Book is another endeavor spearheaded by Mrs. Rosalie Treñas, Chairman of the Iloilo Arts Festival 2020-2022.
“Ilonggos have embraced local arts and more young people are getting involved in the creative profession. Art has the power of moving, inspiring, provoking curiosity, excitement, and even sending messages,” she said.
Rosalie said the Iloilo Art Book is a project to be proud of, “a collection of artwork from various artists that tell stories of our hopes and victories as Ilonggos.”
Mayor Jerry P. Treñas emphasized that while the City Government is doing numerous infrastructure projects on housing, public markets and plazas, health centers, and other buildings which will provide accessible and basic services, one must not forget the “soul” of the city.
“Art is our core, it is very much part of our culture and heritage,” he said.
The book is one-of-a-kind, the first art book the city has ever published, and the first time a big number of artists are featured.
The cover features a lovely a piece by local artist Gerundio Buendia Jr. entitled “Abundance.”
“It is a colorful representation depicting what being an Ilonggo means... I thought it was important to showcase this as a reminder of Iloilo’s illustrious past,” creative director Francesca Golez said.
The book was published in partnership with the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI).
For those interested to get a copy of Iloilo Art Book 2021-2022, pre-orders are done at the IFFI office at the back of Ker and Co. Ltd. Building. (PR)