Art is more than just a creative expression. It is also a cultural artifact and enshrined within it are stories and relics of how communities thrived. Simply, art captures the essence of now that is meant to be treasured, showcased, and passed on.
A similar situation unfolded on June 28, 2023, at SM Seaside Cebu through the exhibit launching of “Hiyas sa Sugbo: Cultural Treasures of Cebu” which was organized by the Portrait Artists’ Society of the Philippines Inc. (Paspi).
The exhibit endeavors to present the cultural masterpieces of Cebu that are ingeniously crafted by the city’s very own local artists. It’s just like hitting two birds with one stone as Hiyas sa Sugbo offers opportunities for local artists to share their crafts, passion, and story to everyone. On top of that, it is a great way of celebrating Cebu’s culture through its artistic cornucopia. More so, it’s a great way of promoting what Cebu has to offer.
The event sparked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony spearheaded by its special guests who are Secretary of Tourism Christina Garcia-Frasco, Cebu Vice Mayor Raymond Garcia, SM Prime Holdings vice president Marissa Fernan, Paspi founder and chairman Romulo Galicano and Undersecretary of Tourism Ferdinand “Cocoy” Jumapao.
Before unveiling the exquisite paintings, Fernan eluded her warm reception to the crowd by noting how the event wouldn’t be possible without the exceptional talent and creativity of our local artists.
“Hiyas sa Sugbo serves as a testament to the imagination and expression of Cebuano artists. As each artwork showcased here carries a unique story, a reflection of the artists’ passion and craftsmanship. Through their brush strokes, these gifted individuals have transformed their thoughts and emotions into tangible masterpieces,” Fernan pointed out.
The spellbinding imagery in each painting zooms in on Cebu’s historical landmarks, local natural wonders, and even a day in the life of our dear Cebuanos. It’s also noteworthy to see how the paintings conversed Cebu’s culture and the life lived by its people which is a laudable move in promoting the locality’s gems.
Sec. Frasco also shared her introductory words for this event and applauded how our local talents help in showcasing the wonders that Cebu has to offer.“
This exhibit also falls very well in line with the objectives of the Department of Tourism to expand our tourism offerings. Not only to include our tropical sand and beach, nature-based and adventure offerings but also importantly, to give opportunities to highlight the talent of our artists and the work of local communities and residents that tell the world and show them the heart and soul of the Filipino.”
As the tourism secretary, Frasco hopes that her presence at the event will be taken as the Department of Tourism’s form of support in cultivating Cebu’s art scene.
After the launch, the art exhibit became a sight showing the different cultural treasures that Cebu has.
To view the paintings, one can still catch up as Hiyas sa Sugbo’s exhibit will run until Aug. 3, 2023, located at the Mountain Wing of SM Seaside City Cebu.