Artistscebuex in Malaysia

CEBU, Philippines - A group of 12 Cebuano artists, collectively called Artistscebuex, successfully held an exhibit entitled Cebu: People, Places and Faces at the Galeri Dunia Seni Lukis, Jalan Pudu Ulu in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia last October 26. The exhibit was held through the initiatives of Artmalaysia, in cooperation with the Philippine Embassy.

The Cebuano artists who traveled all the way to Kuala Lumpur to join the exhibit were: Gabriel Abellana, Cesar Castillo, Audie Estrellada, Benji Goyha, Maxcel Migallos, Celso Duazo Pepito, Fe Madrid Pepito, Billy Pomida, Jose Brillo Villaver, and Jose “Kimsoy” Yap Jr. Malaysia-based Cebuano artists Aida Uy Sze and Lillian Loseo Tan completed the lineup of exhibitors.

The exhibit formally opened with the unveiling of the painting entitled “Seeking Oneness” by Haned Masjak from the National Art Gallery Malaysia. He was assisted by Philippine Ambassador to Malaysia, Hon. Victoriano Lecaros. The painting, which reflects the many similarities between the two countries, was later turned over to Mr. Masjak as a token of friendship in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Malaysia.

The Cebu: People, Places and Faces exhibit also paved the way for the development of links between visual artists from the Philippines and Malaysia.

Tourism Secretary Joseph “Ace” Durano, who graced the event, said, “We admire the dedication and commitment of dynamic organizations that elevate the rich culture, as well as the skills and talents of a people by sharing the works and crafts of various artists with the global community.”

Cebu City Vice Mayor and Cultural and Historical Affairs Commission Chairman Michael Rama also expressed in his message: “Promoting Cebu through visual arts coincides with the government’s program in making Cebu as the primary tourist destination in the country. This worthy endeavor deserves our full support, for it aims to promote goodwill and understanding between Malaysia and Philippines.”

Liew Kian Yap, Art Promoter and Director of Artmalaysia, meanwhile, said, “Artmalaysia is proud to bring the artistic talents and nuances of Cebu to Malaysian shores…This exhibition could not be more aptly named as Cebu is an island province of amazing and diverse cultures, languages and heritage. It is our hope that Malaysians will be able to view, appreciate and gain a deeper understanding of the cultures and lifestyles of the Cebu people, beautifully illustrated by twelve of her best artists. And in turn, that there will be fruitful exchange, interaction and linkage between our two countries.”

The exhibit was made possible by the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Incorporated, Casa Gorordo Museum, SM City-Cebu, Banilad Town Centre, Mactan Cebu International Airport, Costabella Tropical Beach Hotel, Community Rural Bank of Catmon(Cebu), Incorporated; VG Star Pawnshop and Jewelry Corporation, Golden Cowrie Native Restaurant, ArchiGlobal, Inc.; Dakay Construction and Development Corporation, Agate Accents Furniture, Alibyo Boutique Spa, Optima Typographics, Kaalyado ng Sining, San Diego Dance Studio and Dr. Vicente Avanzado Jr.