ACCORDING to local artists, there is a pressing need for Mindanawon artists to establish a distinct "sense of identity" for Mindanao Art.
World-renowned sculptor and artist Kublai Millan said most Mindanawon artists seem to lack “an identity”, a seemingly indistinct identity among other types of art.
“We want our artists to not just paint in their studios but to go out there and find deeper narratives,” Millan said during PepTalks Lifestyle Forum at SM Lanang Premier on September 19, 2023.
Meanwhile, another Davao-based poet and artist Stella Estremera underscored the “lack of depth” among Mindanawon artists. She said Mindanao’s art seems to have lagged behind other artists, thus a “glitch” is happening between the audience and the artist.
“We come to terms with what Mindanao artists are, yung kulang gani, napag-iwanan talaga (the art seems lacking and far behind), it’s a reality,” Estremera said.
With this, both artists said the fifth edition of Mindanao Art Fair aims to communicate to society and put emphasis on bringing authentic Mindanawon art identity to a larger audience.
The event will take place from September 24 to October 1, in some particular areas of the SM Lanang, with more than 500 artists and almost a thousand artworks to be showcased.
Anchored on the theme, Mindanao Art in Glitch: Resonating and Reverberating, the exhibit explores the “glitch or fault” that prevents something from being successful or working as well as it should.
Kublai suggested that the abundance of art and the ease of claiming to be an artist have created a glitch in the art scene, leading to confusion and frustration. However, recognizing this glitch can inspire a deeper search for meaning and understanding, especially for local artists.
As for the exhibit, visitors can expect to be immersed in a wide array of artistic mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and installations.
The event will not only cater to seasoned art collectors but also attract individuals who are keen to explore and appreciate the diverse art forms that Mindanao has to offer.
In addition to the display of artworks, the fair will also feature interactive workshops, panel discussions, and artist talks, providing attendees with opportunities to engage with the creative minds behind the masterpieces.
Mindanao Art is organized by Lawig Diwa, Inc. in partnership with National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)-National Committee on Art Galleries (NCAG) and SM Supermalls - SM Lanang. ICE