Provenance- Tubo Art Fair 2025

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The Tubô Cebu Art Fair's 2025 theme, "Provenance," explores the origins and history of Cebuano art, prompting artists and attendees to reflect on the influences and journeys that shape the creative landscape. The fair, happening August 29-31 at Ayala Center Cebu, emphasizes the importance of understanding the past to inform the future of Cebuano art.

What Is the Tubô Cebu Art Fair?

Tubò is an annual Regional Art Fair in Cebu launched in 2018, Tubô (meaning "growth" in Cebuano) is the brainchild of businessman Allen Arvin Tan and organized by the Arts Council of Cebu Foundation, the oldest and still-active arts council in the Philippines . It aims to spotlight and nurture the growing community of regional and Visayan artists.

A Platform for Artists & Art Lovers

Tubô provides a supportive environment for creativity—offering exhibitions, trades, talks, and affordable art sales for both beginning and serious collectors .

Community-Driven & Inclusive

The fair fosters meaningful engagement by emphasizing accessible pricing and curating programs that involve culture enthusiasts and patrons alike.

Diverse Artistic Sections

In 2023, the fair featured thematic zones such as Emerge (for newcomers), Enclaves (established artists), Encounters (Cebuano contemporary works), and Evolve (student creations), along with a “Signature Collection” showcasing renowned artists like Romulo Galicano and Charlie Co .

Robust Participation

Over 500 regional artists participated in 2023, and more than 300 took part in 2024. The fair also included film screenings, poetry readings, performances, and artist talks .

City-Wide and Online Presence

Beyond its physical setting at Ayala Center Cebu, Tubô also hosts “City Trail” events-art installations and performances around Cebu City and offers online collections and virtual programs .  

Annual Themes

Each year, the fair adopts a special theme to frame its creative direction. For instance, "Juxtapose" in 2023 encouraged reflection through contrast, while “Ascend” in 2024 emphasized artistic growth and the rising prominence of Bisaya art .

Why It Matters

Tubô Cebu Art Fair is more than just an exhibition—it’s an engine for cultural development in the Visayas. The fair:

Amplifies visibility and opportunities for regional artists.

Bridges the gap between creators and collectors through inclusive trade.

Fosters dialogues and learning with art talks and community programs.

Promotes Visayan art as part of the broader Philippine contemporary art narrative.


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