CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, PHILIPPINES – This coming September 9, Saturday, the Carmen Art District will be opening an exhibition featuring Mindanao contemporary art titled “Panit Bukog 5.” The reception and opening program will begin at 4:30 p.m. and is open to everyone. 

Brief History of the Exhibition

In Visaya, “Panit Bukog” translates to “skin and bone.” This initiative and platform not only showcase remarkable artworks but is also a movement advocating for contemporary art in the Mindanao region. 

Paint Bukog’s long history traces back to the camaraderie between artists and their shared vision for art in Mindanao. Its formation was shaped through discussions among members of the Oro Art Guild and the Media Art Group of Iligan City, culminating in its realization in 2000.

Paint Bukog exhibitions are distinguished by their evaluative approach. The 2001 edition was curated by Bobi Valenzuela, the pioneer curator of Hiraya Gallery, and Kulay Diwa Art Gallery.

These exhibits have influenced renewed interests in artistic practices within the region. 

The Comeback 

After a long hiatus, Panid Bokug made a comeback in November 2019. These exhibitions were presented in two museums: 

• The Museu de Oro, located at Xavier University;
• The Museum of Three Cultures, located at Capitol University; and 
• The SM Downtown Premier.

The selection of artworks varied in form, content, and purpose. Overall, the exhibitions provide a long generation of artist practitioners from Mindanao. The exhibitions also feature collateral events and public programs for local audiences to engage through talks and workshops.

What to Expect from This Year’s Exhibition

In the upcoming exhibition, the spotlight will be on a diverse range of talented artists, each single one bringing their own unique perspective and creative output. 

A total of 36 artists will display their work at the exhibit:

1. Nick Aca
2. Francis Ramir Acevedo
3. Carlito Amalla
4. Michael Bacol
5. Joe Bacus
6. Isagani Calio
7. Rogelito Cayas
8. Elenito Dumlao
9. Jason Dy
10. Carzen Esprela
11. Oscar Esteban Floirendo
12. Joel Geolamen
13. Jacinto Geronimo Jr.
14. Kevin Grapa
15. Markleen Guimbao
16. Jose Jerry Gumanad
17. Jerome Icao
18. Jayson Labtan
19. Raymund Malikay
20. Leo Jesus Marquiala
21. Romy Jones Mata
22. Chester Mato
23. Norman Narciso
24. Donnie Obina
25. Jeffrey Ouano
26. Bea Pascubillo
27. Arjay Fritz Poncardas
28. Emma Prima
29. Ruby Sabanal
30. Maila Secuban
31. Ninianne Sojor
32. Albert Vamenta
33. Jericho Vamenta
34. Cling Vega
35. Jose Armin Virata
36. Rodney Yap

Interested in checking the exhibition out? The Carmen Art District is located at #20 Andres Fernandez Corner, Mahogany Street, Zone 3, Barangay Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City. See local creativity from a whole different perspective! – WhatALife!/Shap

Source: (1), (2)