BY ERWIN ‘AMBO’ DELILAN
IMAGINE wandering through vibrant streets where art isn’t just confined to galleries.
This is Bacolod City’s MassKara Festival, a pulsating symphony of colors, movement, and unparalleled artistic talent.
Amidst the energetic dance routines and infectious rhythms, there emerges a subtle yet powerful “art mania.”
Dive into this artistic frenzy, and you’ll discover two local legends: Jojo Vito from Bacolod City and Larry Carumba from Victorias City, Negros Occidental. They’re not just artists; they’re storytellers, shaping their narratives through strokes, colors, and intricate details.
Mask Maestro
Jojo’s masterpieces are currently taking center stage at the Art Cove of The Park Inn Hotel. Known for his spellbinding masks, every piece Jojo crafts is a mesmerizing tale woven with passion.
From the design’s intricacy to the harmonious burst of colors, Jojo’s work can leave anyone awestruck.
When you think of mask-making in Bacolod, only one name should resonate: Jojo Vito, the undisputed maestro.
Larry Carumba: A Symphony of Naturalism
Yet, nestled in the Mandalagan area’s heart, The Gallery Orange is adorned with Larry’s timeless paintings, a testament to the elegance of naturalism.
His artworks aren’t mere paintings; they’re emotions captured on canvas, demanding attention and stirring souls.
Larry’s journey is as captivating as his art. A former overseas Filipino worker in Saudi Arabia for three decades, art wasn’t his first calling. The boredom of life in Saudi led him to pick up a brush, and the rest is history.
“I was always lowbat (low battery). I needed to be productive. That was when I started painting and painting and painting,” he bared.
Initially met with skepticism, Larry’s resilience paid off when one of his pieces outshone over 200 others in a Saudi art competition. That win marked the dawn of Larry’s illustrious “art era.”
This 60-year-old artist is a Pinnacle Awardee for 2023 as Asia’s Outstanding International Visual Artist but a humble guy from Sitio Cubay within the Victorias Milling Company (VMC) compound in Victorias City. He is also an alumnus of the University of St. La Salle (USLS)-Bacolod.
Triumph Amidst Adversity
The COVID-19 pandemic, a global tragedy, oddly presented a silver lining for Larry. His art became a solace for many in Saudi, offering an escape when travel was impossible.
Larry’s paintings became coveted treasures, elevating his stature in the art world. He views his talent as a divine gift, one that he cherishes and nurtures.
His solo exhibit at The Gallery Orange isn’t just a display; it’s a homecoming. It’s his artistic debut in the Philippines, signaling the start of many more exhibitions to enchant local art enthusiasts.
MassKara’s Artistic Titans
In the vast realm of Bacolod and Negros Occidental’s art scene, Jojo and Larry shine brightest. Their creations aren’t just art; they’re experiences.
As we celebrate their immense talent, it’s evident that they aren’t just artists; they’re the emerging “art heroes” of our time.
Engage with their work, immerse yourself in their stories, and you’ll understand why they’re the heartbeat of the MassKara Festival./PN
