September in the Philippines can be politically contentious largely due to former President Ferdinand Marcos’s declaration of Martial law on September 21. And this turmoil was reflected in many of the art exhibits BluPrint covered for the month. But for this round-up of art exhibits in September, BluPrint highlights artworks that explore the artists’ inner […]
Luzon Art Fair Announces Its Second Year of Showcasing Regional Artistry
The Luzon Art Fair announced the dates for its second annual showcase of artworks from the region. Exhibiting at the Diwa ng Tarlac and Bulwagang Kanlahi in Tarlac City, the fair will be open to the public from October 3 to 6.
The event was first organized in 2023 by the government of Tarlac alongside the National Commission for Culture and the Arts Committee on Art Galleries. It hopes to promote the artistic diversity of Luzon as a whole, making the works accessible to the broader public.
“The Luzon Art Fair is a testament to the importance of art in our communities, serving as a spark for cultural growth and a platform for Luzon’s artists to shine on a broader stage,” declared the mission statement of the event.
Featured Artists and Participating Galleries
Over 500 artists are expected to participate in the massive event, as well as multiple galleries showcasing different works. The event chose a diverse set of emerging and established artists to “[provide] an exciting glimpse into the future of Filipino art.”
Some of the featured artists selected include visual artists like Angelica Rosalin, Sam Penaso and Dindo Pilareja. Other artists like Melchor Sabariza dabble in mixed media arts. This art fair also features abstract painters like Carmela Tan and Seth Corda.
The event also highlights talent from different regions like Pangasinan-based painter Jelly Jimenez, the Zambales-based Macreator, and Nueva Ecija-based artist Madeleine Vinuya. These choices demonstrate artists and movements found outside of NCR and its cities, a central goal of the fair.
“This event provides a unique platform for regional artists to display their work and engage with a broader audience,” the event’s goals stated.
Galleries that will be participating in the event include Fundacion Sansó, Gallerie Francesca, Pintô Art Museum, the Annext, Rojo Galerie, and Secret Fresh Gallery.
Displaying a Diversity of Talent for Luzon-Based Artists
The Luzon Art Fair will also go beyond these contemporary artists and galleries in showcasing the local art scene. Different talks, exhibits, and installations are planned to broaden the artistic minds of the fair’s visitors.
Thematically, the fair centers around the topic of “Cultural Heritage Meets Contemporary Expression” in the island. According to them, “The fair will explore the intersection of Luzon’s rich cultural traditions and contemporary art, delving into themes of identity, history, and social change.”
Planned installations and exhibits will spotlight the art movements and indigenous art practices specifically based in Luzon. Discussions about “art’s role in cultural preservation, community building, and sustainability” will also be baked into the program.
“We recognize a need for a platform that not only highlights the diverse creativity of our local artists,” the event said. “[But one that] also brings together the broader art community to foster collaboration, inspiration, and growth.”
The 2024 Luzon Art Fair welcomes visitors on October 3 to 6 between 10am and 6pm. This Tarlac City event gives free admission to all who desire to come. Visit their Instagram page for any further updates on the fair.
Related reading: Art Fair Philippines 2024 Opens To The Public This Weekend