Filipino art goes to South Africa in landmark show

BATANGAS CITY – A delegation of Filipino artists from Batangas and Bulacan provinces is set to make history by holding the first-ever art exhibition by an Asian country in Pretoria, South Africa, showcasing the essence of “Filipinism” to a global audience.

The week-long arts and cultural initiative will take place at the prestigious Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria from April 23 to 29.

In an interview with the Philippine News Agency on Tuesday, art ambassador Remo Valenton explained that the event will center on “Filipinism,” exploring the unique characteristics that define Filipino art.

“This cultural expedition aims to foster an exchange of artistic knowledge. Notably, this marks the first time that an Asian delegation will host an exhibition, conduct art lessons, and lead workshops at the university in Pretoria, South Africa,” Valenton stated.

He said this initiative is a collaborative effort between the Philippine Embassy in Pretoria and KUNST (Kapatiran at Ugnayan ng Natatanging Sining at Talento) Filipino, represented by its managing director, Virgilio Cuizon.

Valenton believes this platform will allow Filipino artists to present contemporary visual arts while simultaneously gaining insights from South African culture and artistic expressions.

Furthermore, Valenton emphasized the significance of forging strong relationships with international counterparts to promote the advancement of arts and art tourism in both the Philippines and South Africa.

Valenton, the founder of the BAtangueñong Grupo sa SIning at Kultura (BAGSIK), noted that their contribution to the exhibit will feature modernism, abstract expressionism, and visual poetry interwoven with distinct Filipino cultural elements.

He cited his own artistic style, ‘Remoism,’ which incorporates upcycled materials like scrap corrugated iron roofs, as a testament to his commitment to environmental sustainability. This unique style transcends traditional boundaries, blending impressionism and abstract expressionism to establish his distinct voice in contemporary art.

Other participating artists include Loriel Castillo and Doy Kastilyo of Art’e Bauan in Batangas, and Aris and Dale Bagtas of Obrang Bagtas in Bulacan.

Castillo’s work will explore a redefinition of abstraction by merging the elegance of calligraphy with poetic nuances, while Bagtas’ neo-realism style will present traditional subjects through contemporary artistic methods. (PNA)