Student artist brings back tattoo concept

CEBU, Philippines - “I want to bring back the concept of tattooing here in Cebu.”  That is what multi-awarded student artist Gelo Arcaya wants to achieve in his first solo exhibit which is set to open on March 19, 6pm at the right wing of the Rizal Memorial and Museum Building.

Arcaya’s exhibit entitled Skin Deep, features photos of his tattoo designs with the technique of cubism involved. In addition to that, there will be individuals who have his design tattooed on their skin during the opening night.

“I want to contribute to the tattoo industry nga hinay-hinay unta nga dili na siya ma-taboo sa society, (I want to contribute to the tattoo industry that slowly it would not become taboo in the society),” Arcaya said noting that tattoos have been a great part of the Cebuanos history as we are known to be the Pintados.

“Part of my mission is to educate the public what the value of the tattoo really is. It is not just for vogue or for merely fancy purposes,” Arcaya added.

Arcaya has won prestigious awards in and out of the University of the Philippines – Cebu. Included in his list, being the grand prize winner of the Jose Joya Awards on 2010 and the Lacarlota beach resort body painting contest on 2011.

This year, Arcaya won the third prize in the Jose Joya Awards for his piece entitled Intimacy. The artwork is made out of henna tattoo ink painted on leather.

The Skin Deep photo exhibit at the Rizal Memorial and Museum Building will run until March 25. (FREEMAN)