The News Today Online

Art Republic: A haven for art lovers

By Wein P. Gadian

After the successful celebration of Arts Festival last September, Art has become more apparent for Ilonggos. Again artists both young and old were given opportunities to showcase their best works where anyone could peek into. This too made Ilonggos appreciate and understand not only the artworks but also the artists' perceptions. This was further realized with the opening of Art Republic last October 21 at Robinson's Place Iloilo (RPI). Art Republic is the newest art destination in Western Visayas. It is also RPI's enthusiastic response to a vital need for corporate support to Iloilo's flourishing art and culture. RPI's contribution to Iloilo's promising cultural landscape is also noted in its years of supporting countless art and culture events.

Art Republic is an evident demonstration of community and commerce's collective endeavor in promoting and enhancing cultural development. From an idea of a decent, attractive, changing exhibition gallery space into an art lane featuring works of some of the finest Ilonggo senior artists, as well as young and upcoming ones – Ed Defensor, Fred Orig, PG Zoluaga, Momo Dalisay, Alan Cabalfin, Jomari Moleta, Junjun Duarte, Joseph Firmeza, Voltaire Fernandez, Levy Salmon, Joe Amora, Martin Genodepa, Vic Fario, Gina Apostol, Erwin Chiongson, Vernil Visitacion, Yannie Noble, Guijo Dueñas, Nelson Ferraris, Michael Moleta, Pam Ferraris, Angelo Moleta, Mario Magno, Dante Aguirre, Marc Gonzales, Dado Tan, Ritchie Baylon, Ronnie Apines, Ephraim Alfaras, Erwin Sabio, John Paul Castillo, Marlon Penetrante, Richard Rull, Nona Lasaga, Eugene Cichon, Jhonny Liwanag, Wilfredo S, Paulo Cabales, Orville Visitacion and the Circulo Artists of the University of San Agustin, among others. The artists' works are subdivided into seven galleries: Gallerie Artesons, C' Galleria, Gina Apostol Garcia's Gallery, Verneil Visitacion's Gallery, A. Moleta and Rene Peconcillo's Gallery, Brownman Gallery by Busilak Artists Group and Hangaway.

The opening celebration was graced by City Mayor Jerry P. Teñas and Robinsons Land Corporation Ad and Promo Director Ms. Eunice N. Gonzales, together with Rev. Fr. Manny Uy, S.J., Councilors Jed Mabilog and Merci Drilon-Garcia, DOT Director Edwin Trompeta, Police Director Sr. Supt. Norlito Bautista, artists, cultural workers, students, art collectors, members of the national and local media, civic groups, the academe and business community. Guests were treated in a gratifying evening of music and dance amidst the visual feasts. There was the compelling dance piece performed by dance artist Errol Villalobos created by choreographer Faith Javellana, with concept and music by multi-media artist PG Zoluaga. Also present were the music artist Mann Lee, together with Ilahas and Ritmo Ilongganon, in their vigorous renditions of contemporary indigenous fusion music. Art Republic officially opened with the unfurling of the banner by honor guards from Santa Maria Catholic School (Ateneo de Iloilo). Art Republic is in collaboration with the cultural community and opens daily from 10 am to 8 pm at the 3rd level of Robinsons Place Iloilo.