I-Gallery opens

The economic setback that hit the country doesn't have much effect on the determination and passion of the Cebuano artists to continue recording their artistic expressions on canvas, not minding whether their works would be appreciated or perhaps even get neglected for the time being.

The vibrancy and resiliency of these artists are not solely based on how many artworks they will be able to sell but to what extent will they propagate their artistic expressions.

To sustain and help promote these artistic ideals, another exhibit venue opened its door to the Cebuano artists for them to properly showcase their innate artistry. The venue also provides the opportunity for collectors and artists to know each other and develop a relationship that would hopefully grow through the years.

Located along Banilad road between Darras+ Bowler and RD Pawnshop, the art venue is called I-Gallery. I stands for artistic ideas, integrity and inspiration. Since it also hopes to be a link to other artistic fields such as music and poetry, I also means interactive.

The I-Gallery's mission is the development and promotion of Cebuano art. It also hopes to make every Cebuano proud of the artists. The vision of the gallery is to help bring Cebuano art not only national but international recognition, as well.

I-Gallery was formally opened last Monday (May 8, 2006) at 6:00 in the evening. A formal blessing of the place was officiated by Rev. Fr. Roy Cimagala of Lahug Center. It was followed by the opening of the gallery's first exhibit offering entitled RIPPLES. After cutting the ribbon, an invited Taiwanese musician, Ms. Fanny Chen, serenaded the crowd with her masterful viola rendition of three classical music.

Guests of honor who attended the opening were Mrs. Robin Aboitiz, Mrs. Julie Ko, Dr. Jenny Rosello, Ms. Marlinda Angbetic Tan, Arch't. Omar Maxwell Espina, Mr. Devin Go, Mr. Meyrick Jacalan, Mr. Louie Nacorda, Dr. Jimmy Rama, Mr. Jose Soberano III and Hon. Joy Augustus Young.

Artists who are featured in the exhibit are: Raul Agas, Antonio Alcoseba, Vidal Alcoseba Jr., Methuzael Carredo, Pronnie de la Cerna, W.R. Cuevas Jr., Jet Florendo, Fred Galan, Marivel Galan, Benji Goyha, Ber Hermoso, Jun Impas, Cris Java, Jorge Lao, Celso Duazo Pepito, Fe Madrid Pepito, Lito N. Pepito, Jose Mari Picornell, Rita Piczon, Ritchie Quijano, Chikoy Romualdez, Antonio Vidal, Mar Vidal, Jobril Villaver and Sonia Yraztorza.

The Gallery is open Monday to Saturday 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.