LEGAZPI CITY, Albay (PIA) – The public is in for a treat this month as the art exhibit “Siri-Siri sa Kugos 5” opened its door to celebrate National Arts Month last February 8 in a mall in Legazpi City.
The local art group Kugos Bicol Artists were on their 5th year of conducting exhibits and this year they showcased diverse range of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media pieces, and more.
The event also was a tribute to the late architect Everardo Napay who was known for his architectural and design works in different provinces of Bicol region.
Bringing Bicol’s folklore to life: Visitors can admire the unique artworks in the ‘Siri Siri sa KUGOS 5’ exhibit. (Photo by Don Paulo Pableo, Bicol University Intern)
In an interview, Chito Aguilar, a member of the group, said that the Bicol word “siri-siri” means “simmering” or “boiling” which is rooted in Bicol folklore and it mirrors the current socio-economic issue of soaring prices.
“We are proud to host such a talented group of artists and to showcase their work for the public to admire,” said Maria Magdamit, one of the attending artists.
Further, the artists hope that the ‘simmering’ theme of the exhibit can cast a magic spell for better times in 2023.
“Come visit our exhibit and bewitch yourself by various visual treats, boiling hot, steaming you’re your economic woes,” the group said in a statement.
The exhibit is located at the 4th Level Mall Mezzanine of SM City Legazpi and will be open throughout the month.
The art exhibit was attended by different local artists in the region including Ping Peralta, Jaffa Arela Oliva, Frank Peniones Jr., Jaffa Arela Oliva, Rene Oliva, Rommel Perez, Boyet Abrenica, Micah Hilotin, Far Encinas, Junie Linsoco, Patricia Yangco, and Nitoy Peñera.
It also includes works from guest artists Djai Tanji, Pop Sierra, Eli Benito, and Sam Aguilar.
Legazpi City Mayor Geraldine Rosal graced the event with a message of support to artists.
A plaque of recognition was awarded to late Everardo Napay which was received by his son, Toi Napay.
A closing ceremony for the exhibit will be held on February 28, which will also be an opportunity for visitors to purchase the artworks and take home a piece of Bicolano culture. (PIA5/Maria Christina Angela Pielago, Bicol University intern, contributed to this report.)
