ILOILO City – The Ilonggo Art Book, a catalogue of local Ilonggo artists and their artworks, will soon be launched.
The book is a collaborative project between the city government and the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI). It aims to support and promote local artists.
“The City of Love is filled with colorful and amazing artworks. We encourage more art, improve artists’ talent and highlight Ilonggo skills. Through this, we are able to present our culture and values,” said Mayor Jerry P. Treñas.
On Jan. 4, the city mayor, representing the city government, and IFFI president Jose V. Layson Jr. signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the Ilonggo Art Book.
Also joining the MOA signing were Iloilo City’s first lady Rosalie Treñas, executive project director; Frannie Golez, creative director; Leny Ledesma, project manager; Vic Nabor of Himbon Art group as artists representative and book advisor; City Administrator Mechor Tan; special assistant to the mayor, Mathilde Treñas; and Councilor Miguel Treñas.
According to Golez, the 200-page book will feature over 200 artworks of 180 local artists from 13 art groups in Iloilo as well as individual artists.
“We requested the artists to submit works they want to be featured. We also took works from the Iloilo Pop-Up Studio. We tried to put in as much artwork representatives from the art groups and what they wanted to show as their best works,” said Golez.
A total of 1,000 copies of the book will be printed.
Under the MOA, the IFFI committed to provide financial support amounting to P400,000 while the city government will provide auxiliary support and o develop strategies in engaging and building support from the local community, among others.
Both parties emphasized that Iloilo City is aspiring to be known as the “Art Capital of the Philippines,” giving positive energies through art while providing a source of living to Ilonggo artists./PN
