Mindanao-based artists take center stage in KL exhibit

Philippine artwork from Mindanao took the center stage in an art exhibit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia last May 6.

Organized by the Philippine Embassy in Kuala Lumpur and the Philippine National Commission on Culture and the Arts, the exhibit, titled Glimpses of Mindanao: Peace in the Land of Promise, featured 30 paintings by Mindanao based artists Saudi Ahmad, Chester Mato and Nicholas Aca, Jr.

Members of the diplomatic corps, art gallery representatives and members of the Malaysian media, members of the Filipino art community and art enthusiasts attended the event.

"The artworks that are on display illustrate sceneries, way of life, cultures, hopes and dreams of the so-called Land of Promise. We hope that through the artists' eyes, all of us can perceive the beautiful land that is Mindanao," Philippine Ambassador to Malaysia J. Eduardo Malaya said.

“The Embassy has prioritized assistance to the socio-economic growth and development of Mindanao. The 4.4-million strong Filipino Muslim communities which are not only concentrated in Bangsamoro region in Mindanao, but also in Metro Manila, Baguio and other areas, are a significant component of the one, dynamic Filipino nation, which also include Filipino Christians and the Lumad indigenous peoples,” he added.

The artworks of Ahmad of Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay depicted Filipino Muslims in their traditional attire and work, at play and while praying.

“By using contemporary expressions and vibrant cultural traditions of the Filipino Muslim community, he bridges the values of past to the present and rendered them relevant to the next generation,” entrepreneur Tess Dizon said.

Meanwhile, the paintings of Mato of Pagadian City showed interweaving of culture of culture and technology using recycled materials. His modernistic artworks also conveyed environmental conversation.

Aca's work, on the other hand, featured makeshift houses of indigenous lumads, which reflect simple, culturally authentic lines. Aca is based in Cagayan de Oro City.

There was also a mini-concert during the event featuring the Philippines's preeminent jazz pianist Boy Katindig and the Baihana Jazz Band, as well as baritone Cipriano “Zip” de Guzman, Jr.

The exhibit is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Level 1 Centre Core of the KL Convention Centre until May 10.