In celebration of 123rd Semana sang Iloilo, the Iloilo Provincial Library and Archives holds first ever exhibit themed “HANDUMANAN: Heritage Awareness through Art” featuring the works of Ilonggo artists Cristhom “Do Doy” Setubal and Mark Vincent Java at 2nd floor of Casa Real de Iloilo.
The artists were joined by Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., Iloilo Provincial Library Head Allana Delgado, and Board Member Val Serag in the ceremonial ribbon cutting of the exhibition on Monday, April 8.
Vice Gov. Christine Garin also graced the short opening program.
In her welcome remarks, Delgado said that the exhibition of Setubal’s and Java’s masterpieces at historic Casa Real during Semana sang Iloilo celebration is “perfect” as these highlight the culture of Iloilo by depicting heritage structures and daily life of Ilonggos.
Setubal used repurposed and recycled materials in making 3D facades of historical buildings and landmarks in Iloilo. Java, on the other hand, detailed the scenes and streets of the metro in his ‘Wimmelbilderduch’ style of art.
Garin congratulated the Iloilo Provincial Library and Archives for holding the first ever art exhibit in the Capitol and hope that more Ilonggo artists will be given a chance to showcase their pieces in the historic edifice.
She also thanked the artists for preserving Iloilo heritage through their artworks.
“I would like to congratulate both of you, for most of your works are heritage. It’s something that the present generation must appreciate,” Garin said.
Handumanan exhibit runs from April 8-30, 2024.
Artists Profile
CRISTHOM “DO DOY” SETUBAL
Cristhom “Dodoy” Setubal is a self-taught talent from San Joaquin, Iloilo originally set sail with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation and a Master’s in Maritime Management from John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University. His artistic journey is deeply rooted in his family’s love for history and antiques. This passion intertwines with his art, particularly his focus on heritage structures. His artistic debut came in May 2019 with the first exhibit at the Museum of the Philippine Economic History. Titled “Sa Mata sing Manunubli”, the collection showcased Iloilo’s heritage structures in detailed pen and ink illustrations. The pandemic lockdown sparked a new creative outlet for him, crafting 3D upcycled artworks of churches. These pieces found a new home in a 2023 exhibit at the National Museum of the Philippines Western Visayas, aptly titled “Iglesia” Heritage Churches of Iloilo. This year, he collaborated with Iloilo’s renowned panoramic artist and cartoonist Mark Vincent Java for a two-man show called “Rendezvous: Past Meets Present” at Days Hotel Iloilo and “2D Meets 3D” in the Museum of Philippine Economic History. Through his art, Dodoy champions three important advocacies: appreciation for art, awareness of local heritage, and environmental responsibility through garbage reduction via upcycling.
MARK VINCENT JAVA
Mark Vincent Java is a Filipino artist who doesn’t just paint Iloilo City, he captures its soul. This veteran cartoonist and painter creates breathtaking panoramic scenes that are quintessentially llonggo. Java’s signature style showcases bustling cityscapes, instantly recognizable to Iloilo art enthusiasts. Beyond the detailed landscapes, his works have a deeper purpose: to preserve the city’s current spirit, a “zeitgeist” for future generations. Take a closer look at his panoramas, and you’ll be transported to the heart of Iloilo. You’ll see the iconic details that bring the city to life. The bustling sidewalks and crisscrossing streets are filled with the ever-present energy of pedestrians. Java’s artistic journey began with a Bachelor of Philippine Arts from the University of the Philippines Manila. He honed his skills as both a cartoonist and photojournalist before transitioning to his current role as a private school administrator. Inspiration for his art comes from fellow Filipino talents, Ilonggo illustrator Geton Gelpe and the esteemed National Artist, Larry Alcala. Their influence shines through in Java’s work, making him a true chronicler of Iloilo’s vibrant present.
About Iloilo Provincial Library and Archives
Iloilo Provincial Library and Archives is the first regular provincial library under the Philippine Library and Museum (now National Library of the Philippines).
It was inaugurated over a century ago on October 29, 1916, according to Inauguracion de la Biblioteca de Iloilo en 29 de Octubre de 1916 (A copy can be found at the Ateneo de Manila University Rizal Library).
The library is under the helm of recently appointed Provincial Government Assistant Department Head (PGADH) Ms. Allana Delgado of the Provincial Library and Archives Office. It is open Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 5:30pm.
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