IN celebration of the 15th anniversary of the University of San Carlos’ painting program, the school unveiled its Creative Hub Art Gallery located inside the College of Architecture and Fine Arts building last Dec. 9.
The momentous occasion was also marked with the opening of “Commune,” an exhibit featuring works of the program’s faculty and some alumni namely Kimsoy Yap, Jorge Lao, Gabriel Abellana, Lucilo Sagayno, Nomar Miano, Gigi Ocampo, Ivy Apa, Katherine Rivera, Melver Mercado, RV Sanchez, Zaldy Ramos, Karby Beloy, Christine Cueto and Soika.
According to faculty member Nomar Miano, their exhibit’s goal is quite straightforward and that is to redefine the growing perception of art as a utilitarian discipline, and to counter the growing threats that art—in whatever form—has to be quantified, its existence justified.
True enough “Commune” is a synthesis of the artists’ ideas on a variety of subjects, likewise articulated in different forms: paintings, mixed media imagery, installations—and done during the opening night, performance art. It is also a representation of the school as a melting pot of artistic personalities, evident in the transition of style and discipline in the works between the first generation and the next.
Miano added that although he and the rest of the faculty are still ironing out the details and finishing the renovations of the art space, he assures that artists and art aficionados have plenty to look forward to in the creative nook in the coming year.
Its debut exhibit “Commune” will run until Dec. 31.