Visual Cohesion- United by Art, Bridging Cities at the VAF 2024

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The Cebu-Manila Art Collective Exhibit - United by Art, Bridging Cities, will be showcased at the Visayas Art Fair 2024 at Booth B07.

"Visual Cohesion"


The Visayas Art Fair 2024 (VAF) celebrates a profound journey of artistic expression, where diverse paths converge to form a unified, visual language. This year's fair features talented artists under the Cebu-Manila Artists Collective, each bringing their unique backgrounds and experiences to the forefront.

These artists, shaped by distinct artistic journeys, come together to showcase their individual visions. Their works, varied in style and technique, seek unity through a collective aspiration to express their narratives and emotions. This convergence creates a harmonious visual experience, reflecting the rich tapestry of Filipino art.

The VAF 2024 stands as a testament to the power of art in bridging differences and fostering a sense of community. Each piece invites viewers to engage, reflect, and connect on a deeper level.
 

Participating Artists:

Tam Austria
Roy Ama
Aris Bagtas
Romeo Cortez, Jr.
Roy Espinosa
Zapphire Benedikt Jayme
Maia Magpantay
Pepito Monton,
Celso Pepito
Lydia Velasco
Jik Villanueva
Lucilo "Jojo" Sagayno

 

Guests of Honor- Dr. Michael de Belen Cotia, Dr. Michelle Judaya Cotia, Mr Devon Go, Hon. Michael Villamor, Mrs. Toni Grace Villamor.

Tam Austria (born 1943)

A highly skilled figurative artist who excels in the dynamics of realism, Tam (for Anastacio) Austria is a collectors’ favorite. His followers do not seem to find the long wait for an Austria work. This is, concededly, the best proof that the 46-year-old Austria, son of peasants parents from Tanay, Rizal, had indeed gone a long way from his humble origins.

Austria’s artistic odyssey began in the 1950s. The boy Austria turned out a highly realistic oil painting of Christ with a crown of thorns – an impressive first work for one who was not even 10 years old. The parish priest, who must have noticed the early signs of artistic talent in Austira who served him as altar boy, gave the youth his fist exposure to art. The generous priest was also instrumental in winning a four-year high scholar scholarship for the evolving artist. In 1960, Austria enrolled at the University of Sto. Tomas for a degree in fine arts. He was a standout and easily won a number of prizes for his early efforts.

Carlos “Botong” Francisco, the national artist for painting, whom Austria admired deeply, encouraged the artist to join the Ayala Museum as artist and illustrator. His first project was to design the museum’s diorama of Philippine history. His considerable gifts caught the attention of the Zobel de Ayala family, prominent art patron, who offered him a commission to do a mural, along with Fernando Amorsolo and Fernando de Ayala, for the St. Anthony Chapel in Forbes Park.

https:/www.spellmanngallery.com

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