IN CELEBRATION of National Arts Month and to strengthen local artistic expression by providing a platform for homegrown talent, the Lapu-Lapu City Art Gallery reopened on Feb. 27, 2025, in Barangay Gun-ob, Lapu-Lapu City, with Advance Institute of Technology (AIT) participating in the said event.
The event showcased various artists, including Rapson Ybañez, a faculty member at Advance Institute of Technology, showcasing transitioned art from traditional to contemporary, incorporating found objects and upcycled materials. He prefers this style as it’s lively and engaging.
“Lapu-Lapu Gallery’s reopening provides a vital space for artists, especially those from Opon. It allows us to exhibit our work and prove that our city has a thriving art scene. As an artist and mentor, I encourage my students to explore their creativity at their own pace, focusing on consistency rather than pressure,” said Ybañez.
Other artists also joined the reopening, including members of the Mactan Artist Guild, who showcased diverse artistic styles through paintings, sculptures and mixed-media pieces, with many works created by Lumad artists and local residents.
Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan aims to support local artists by providing them with a platform to showcase their work while also educating students about Lapu-Lapu’s rich artistic heritage. Through this initiative, the city continues to nurture the next generation of artists and preserve its cultural identity.
Allyne May I. Abayon / Advance Institute Technology