Arts | Paint Walls to Break Walls

The #CityOfLove is #CityOfArts

WRITTEN BY MDPN. ANTHONY KEN BUCASAS PHOTOS BY ARTIVISM

It is in the unlikely spaces and local communities that ordinary people are presented to the realities of society. Realities that are more amplified not by voices nor by force, but by movements to make a statement and to rally people to one greater cause.

Iloilo City is full of these spaces. From dull and empty walls, the city has transformed into a panorama of rich sceneries of culture and arts.

Artivism Iloilo, a hybrid of “art” and “activism,” was founded in 2017 with the assistance of the British Council. Ever since, the organization has worked with a number of local government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and artists’ associations to attain its goal of bringing art closer to the wider populace.

The movement seeks to advance public spaces as significant forums for art and expression, in contrast to the often limited and private galleries and museums

The city of Iloilo is slowly earning the monicker ‘prolific arthub of the country.’ The painted urban walls in streets stand not only for the radiant art scenes in the city but also for the kind of leadership and governance it has. One that is led by someone who appreciates art and an artist himself.

Padayon nga Ma-angkon ang Katin-aran

Sta. Filomena and the Sea by Kyle Dile and Kyle Sarte

It might seem strange to confuse a slow-moving, blubbery sea cow with a beautiful, fish-tailed maiden – mermaids as they call it. Dugongs are called the mermaids of the sea, a completely harmless animal that vacuums the seafloor to find something to eat. Sta. Philomena is somewhat similar to a dugong, a martyr to humanity, abused, ravaged, and tormented - yet remained a virgin.

Dunang Manggad sa Amon Guin-aman

World Wildlife Day 2019 Life Below Water For People and Planet

The Ilonggos rely on the abundance of ecosystems and species that have resulted in the thriving life below water. The sea has sustained human civilization and development by providing everything from food and nourishment to building materials and even the air we breathe. We may be the infection, but we are also the cure.

Namat-an sang mga Baganihan

Teresa Magbanua kag ang Bakunawa

Photo by Atelier Clarious

It is not just men who have fought in wars; women have done so as equals. Teresa Ferraris Magbanua, an Iloilo-born veteran of three wars, best exemplifies the courage of the Bakunawa. Swallowing seven moons, rebelled against the gods, just like how a school teacher took arms to counter the Spaniards from invading the lands of Iloilo. We must never forget that just like in Filipino folklore, the women of the Revolution deserve their own place across the sky.

Puluy-an ka sang mga Dungganon

Transport of Generations

Photo courtesy of Raprap Dorilag

Iloilo is known for its rich cultural heritage and values that have been passed down from generations. Ilonggos have built, fought, and invested in building a paradise of love and smiles for their children. Indeed, the city became a place for the people and its future. Painted in these walls are colors and faces of gratitude that will forever last to the memories and hearts of Ilonggos.

Guindihon sa Imong Gugmang Bilidhon

Lola Maria on Marka Merkado

Nang Maria is 74 years old and the oldest among the vendors of “ibos,” a sticky rice delicacy at the public market of Barotac Viejo. She became a symbol of commitment to strive for her family and for the local economy. Her silent way of keeping the native delicacies alive should be know to the younger generation of women to keep the culinary culture of Ilonggos alive. She is an inspiration, an unsung hero, a bearer of hope.