The Anthem Philatelist

True artistic genius rarely introduces itself in the pristine, clinical halls of high-end galleries. Instead, it lingers in the margins, waiting to be stumbled upon in the most mundane corners of everyday life. My introduction to Eli Manongas—a pioneer and co-founder of Cebu’s groundbreaking Neo-Tribalism Movement —did not begin with a formal exhibition catalogue. It began, quite literally, in a comfort room, and unfolded through a series of serendipitous encounters that revealed a man who was simultaneously an avant-garde rebel and a master of classical mimicry. I first learned Eli’s name from a simple watercolor painting hanging on the wall of a restaurant restroom. It was an unassuming location for art, yet the piece demanded attention. The fluid brushstrokes and masterfully controlled washes of color transformed a sterile, utilitarian space into a brief sanctuary of contemplation. The signature at the bottom read "Eli Manongas." It was a profound lesson in the democratic...

  PAGLAUM (Hope) Art Exhibit for a cause sponsored by the PSMO  to raise funds for Oncology (Cancer) charity patient's systemic chemotherapy Celso Pepito Fred Galan Tina Marie Gandionco   Pilar Marie Carmen Sala Dante Javelosa Luzon Friday Group Sessionistas ArtPortalCebu   The Medical Artists Group   and more...  Featured Group # ARKISKETCHERS CEBU A group of Cebu-based architects has been going around Cebu not to check construction sites but to sketch and paint. Whether it’s watercolor or pen and ink, Arkisketchers Cebu are busy filling their sketch pads with drawings and paintings of heritage buildings, rural scenes, as well as the growing urban landscape. Through their work, the group also tries to capture everyday scenes and various walks of life.  There is so much about Cebu to show, and by sketching and painting, they are able to tell a story of a particular moment one art work at a time. It’s one of the best ways to showcase Cebu, both architec...

I would never imagined I'd ever have a tatoo in my life. When I was young, I loathed rhe idea of having tatoos- why put graffiti on your body, it's tantamount to desecrating God's creation? Then I read Bantugang Sugbuan chapter on Painted Bodies by Jay Nathan T. Jore that this practice is a Cebuano cultural heritage. "Decorative painting and decoration in general during the precolonial Cebu were "not architectural, rather it was centered in one important entity - the human- body. As a prized possession, the human body is well celebrated ans decorated. Art was a celebration of this humanist attitude, geared towards the endowment of the human body with the implements and ornamentation that mark the bearers with proper distinction in society and command certain roles in community affairs". That notion that tattooing was undesirable was further shattered when I visited Whang-od . I also realized that she being an artist and my body- the canvas, I've become ...

  To preserve the rich cultural and historical heritage of Cebu City , Vice Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia spearheaded and concretized the creation of the Cebu City Heritage District . Garcia said the heritage district was created to protect the historical heritage of Cebu City and promote sustainable development within the district. "This will promote tourism, drive economic growth, improve urban landscapes, promote civic pride and identity, diversify local experiences, and elevate the city’s brand,”. He has also enacted policies that safeguard existing cultural assets of the city and “encourage a harmonious blend of old and modern elements.” The district includes heritage buildings and landmarks (identified as significant heritage assets based on their age, architectural. style, and cultural value) and cultural landscapes and public spaces. A painting competition and diorama by Prof. Lakan Olivares and students of the South Western University School of Design and Communication...

As most of our younger generation is facing the infringement of social media, most of their attention is tending toward self glorification thereby gradually abandoning the importance of a face to face activities that spur their personal development. Through world- wide - wave phenomenon might be considered as their era, it might help them discover their great potentials if we will introduce them to activities that motivate them to discover their right direction. Introducing our children to any sport might help them nurture their great potentials.  More than a means of physical fitness, sports invigorate the level of competitiveness in them, it can help them practice discipline, and most importantly, it facilitates our youth to discover their positive contribution to building a nation.  Coming on August 11, 2023 at 6:00PM PAUGNAT TA, BAY! Nurturing sports, Encouraging the youth Celso Pepito Leodito Bongo III Cesar Castillo Joel Cristobal  John Dinglasa   Jess Dinglas...

  Eagle Eye Charities Gallery Presents MasterWorks   Featuring the Masterpieces of Celso Pepito   Jun Impas   Nemi Miranda Artemio Anga Cris Bobier Dohndill Bejoc Audie Estrellada and many more   with special guests Madrigal singers Manet Martinez and Jenny Tolentino Initiation to Purity, 12" x 16", Acrylic on Canvas, 2023