Celebrating the launch of Cebu City Arts Month

Imbued with a rich artistic tapestry, Cebu is a cradle of creative expression and celebration. It is home to renowned talents in the different fields of arts showcasing the narrative of Cebu’s diverse communities.

This is appreciated all the more as this month marks the official observation of Cebu City Arts Month.

On Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023, the debut of this month-long celebration took place at GMall of Cebu to promote Cebu’s art scene and its artists. This buoyant occasion was organized by the Cebu City Government, Office of the Cultural and Historical Affairs Commission, Cebu City Tourism Commission and the Arts Council of Cebu Foundation Inc.

Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama and Vice Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia graced the occasion. Dr. Vivina Chiu-Yrastorza, president of the Arts Council of Cebu Foundation Inc., was also present to show her support for this artful celebration.

To commence the occasion, Dr. Chiu-Yrastorza shared her welcome message. She noted how this first celebration of Cebu City Arts Month is a significant milestone in Cebu’s history which is a way to make Cebu a progressive city.

“We are very happy that we are already making some progress in the arts world because in any part of the world, there are places that celebrate arts month — Hong Kong, Australia, United States, Europe — it’s about time for us to do it,” she said in an interview.

Vice Mayor Garcia, in his message, also gave recognition to the exceptional talent and exquisite works of Cebuano artists across different art fields. He further emphasized the essence of this month-long celebration.

“This month is also a time to further promote our artists and give them the due recognition they so deserve. As we celebrate Arts Month, I earnestly hope that Cebuano arts continue to thrive and enrich the lives of all Cebuanos,” Garcia said.

More importantly, Mayor Rama stressed how “art is the food for the soul” and struck on the note of making Cebu prosper by being united as Cebuanos embrace their creative talents.

To seal the fate of August for the arts, Mayor Rama, Vice Mayor Garcia and members of the City Council signed the historic resolution. By doing so, August is officially named Cebu City Arts Month.

After which, a ceremonial opening was then headed by the participating agencies that organized the event. They were also joined by the artist representatives of seven art forms from architecture, film, dance, theater, literature, music and visual arts.

Also, the theme for this year’s ceremonial opening is “ani (harvest),” symbolizing the celebration of a bountiful harvest of life through the arts. A variety of artworks by our very own Cebuano talents were also showcased, including a presentation of local crafts, music, poetry and dance.

Celebrate the arts of Cebu as more artistic events are bound to happen throughout August — long live the art scene of Cebu.