CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) -- Visual arts groups, Artsada Kagay-an, Inc., and Ebony Visual Arts Iligan Association, celebrated National Arts Month by mounting the "Sining ug Kasingkasing" exhibit on February 15 at the 2nd level, East Concourse, Limketkai Center, here.

The exhibit showcased a diverse collection of artwork that reflects the rich and creative culture of Northern Mindanao.

Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-10 Regional Head Franklin Gumapon commended the organizers for the level of the arts and encouraged all artists to pursue their passion.

"Arts and culture always form part of human survival. I could not imagine life without it. It is an embodiment of human expression about self, life, and  survival amidst laughter and sorrows that hover over us," Gumapon said.

Lloyd Hinosolango, president of Artsada Kagay-an, Inc., expressed his gratitude for all the people who helped them mount the exhibit, including sponsors, guests, family, and fellow artists.

Lawyer Pol Geñoso of Carrasco and Geñoso Lawyers and Notary encourages everyone to "discover the heartbeat of local creativity through 'Sining ug Kasingkasing'. Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring world."

Geñoso said that February is a month of appreciation for the arts, where the community comes together to uplift and celebrate our local artists.

National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)-National Committee for Visual Arts regional representative Michael E. Bacol said while some artists may be struggling and some are already in their mid-career, they should not be discouraged because there are always people willing to help and uplift the local art scene.

"Just keep on doing it, padayon sa inyong paghimo. Ang atong mga obra is a reflection of our society, kung daghan artists, daghan pud beauty, and life sa atong community. [Just keep on doing your art. Our masterpiece is a reflection of our society; if there are a lot of artists, our community will also have a lot of beauty and life]. We grow and evolve as artists; we keep on going," said Bacol.

The "Sining ug Kasingkasing" exhibit will run until February 24. (SAYU/PIA-10)