Tribal on canvas

CEBU, Philippines -  People have different reasons for opening a gallery. Some think it is a great venue for socializing or simply because the experience would be worth the try.

Others however set up shop driven by passion for what they believe in.

Neo-Tribe Founder and artist Leopoldo Aguilar Jr. opened Cebu's newest gallery right in his own front yard to create local awareness about the state of our culture which he believed is way too westernized.

Entitled "Opening", the painting exhibit is the inaugural showcase of the Neo-Tribe Gallery, run by the Neo-Tribalism Movement, Inc. Among its members are Aguilar and fellow artists Ian Sanchez, Eli Manongas and Al Aban.

The Neo- Tribalism Movement has presented various art projects like performance art, installation projects and workshops.

The group's paintings are featured in the gallery. By doing this, they hope it encourages other local artist to be independent and make their own breakthroughs.

"We would also like to influence other artists to put up their own galleries, to start from humble beginnings that will eventually grow rather than start extravagantly and fail," Aguilar said.

The gallery was opened to the public last May 8 with an opening performance by tribal band, Bagong Tribo, and will continue until the 25th of June.

Witness the blend of art, music and culture at the Neo-Tribe Gallery located in Lower Tabok, Mandaue City with contact no. 344-3987. (FREEMAN)