Art in March

CEBU, Philippines - February was “National Arts Month.” And it would seem that March is a continuation of the art celebrations. The current month had just been through its half and it has already seen several notable art exhibits.

 “A Glimpse of the Chelsea Flower Show”

Feb 26 to March 18, Skypark, SM Seaside City

British-born sculptor James Doran-Web presents a series of animal driftwood sculptures in “A Glimpse of the Chelsea Flower Show,” an exhibit featuring installations which the Mandaue-based sculptor will be showcasing in this year’s “Chelsea Flower Show” in the United Kingdom this May.

Famed for crafting life-size animal sculptures, the globally-renowned sculptor crafts his creations in his studio in Pakna-an, Mandaue City. Together with his assistants, the artist has had his creations displayed in various exhibition venues in different parts of the world – one of which is Singapore's "Gardens by the Bay."

 “Art Cares for Surigao”

March 1 to 14, Third Level, Paseo Marina, Ayala Center Cebu

With all proceeds pledged to help the victims of the February 10 earthquake in Surigao, the two-week-long “Art Cares for Surigao” has drawn various artists and collectors in Cebu together for a cause.

Participated in by established Cebuano talents Adeste Deguilmo, Lucilo Sagayno, Radel Paredes and Sonia Yrastorza, to name a few, the exhibit also featured works made by maestros-in-the-making Rhodeza Cruzet, Celina Paredes and more.

Collectively, the show proved how art can go beyond its obvious function as decoration, onto one which can serve altruistic goals.

 “Because of Her”

March 3 to 16, Art Center, SM City Cebu

“Because of Her” is more than a Women’s Month art exhibit; it serves as a window to how contemporary creative developments are shaping up outside of Cebu, as it features the works of talents based in Bacolod, Ilo-ilo and Metro Manila.

Curated by independent curator Ginalyn Arquiza, the group exhibit is composed of sculptures and mixed-media pieces that pay tribute to women – mainlined by works that allude to motherhood and how a family can never be complete without a mother’s warmth and love.

Scored by the less-means-more concept in contemporary art, the creative presentation allows Cebuano art lovers to weigh the differences and similarities between art made in and outside of Cebu. (FREEMAN)