If you peer into the horizon, what do you see? You see light bursting from an imaginary line. You see all the tomorrows. You see possibilities and hope.
For the members of the two art groups — Arte Bauan and Arte Likha — the horizon symbolizes the boundless human spirit and that unyielding desire for exploration, as well as the breathtaking beauty and incredible diversity of the world around us.
In terms of art, what can be seen on the horizon are the youth, according to artist and Arte Bauan Founding President, YelCast.
Arte Bauan and Arte Likha artists
There is a need for more experienced art group members to be mentors to those who are next in line. “Igalang at irespeto ang mga artist na nauna. Suportahan ang mga kasabayang nagpipinta. Tulungan at gabayan ang nagsisimula pa lang magpahid ng pintura. Patuloy na ibahagi ang passion at i-serve ito sa mga tao at sa bayan para mas maging meaningful ang buhay nating bilang artist. (Respect and respect the artists who came before. Support fellow painters. Help and guide those who are just starting to paint. Continue to share your passion and serve it to the people and the country to make our lives as artists more meaningful.)”
"Pasada Pinas" by Doy Kastilyo
Both young and experienced artists define what is to see beyond the vistas of art in “Horizon,” on view until July 31 at the Robinsons Land Artablado art space, on the third level of Robinsons Galleria.
"Tanaw" by Yelcast
“Horizon" is the first time that both Batangas-based groups are mounting a joint exhibition in Metro Manila. The experienced hands in Arte Bauan have taken the young up-and-comers in Arte Likha under their wing. The participating artists include: Yelcast, Cheyzer Manalo, Sarah Jane Tumambing, Doy Kastilyo, Jerwind Magnaye, Ada Panopio, Marigonz, Ruby Bagsit, Marck Ogbac, Dhennis Sigua, MJ Cuasay, Joy Bagay, Kier Insigne, Temyong, and Windsor Magnaye.
"Midnight Blooms" by Joy Bagay
“We’ve created Arte Likha kasi bawat isa sa amin ay ramdam na maraming bata na gustong maging artist pero kailangan pang i-guide in terms of skills, puso at professionalism. So, parang training ground ito sa mga gustong maging professional artists. Gusto din naming ma-sustain ang mga art projects at advocacy namin. Saka naniniwala talaga kami na ang nasa kabataang artists ang pag-asa ng sining ng bayan. (We created Arte Likha because each of us feels that there are many children who want to be artists but still need to be guided in terms of skills, heart and professionalism. So, it’s like a training ground for those who want to become professional artists. We also want to sustain our art projects and advocacy. And we really believe that the youth artists are the hope of the country’s art.)”
"Linggo ng Umaga" by Windsor
Art Bauan was established in 2018 by Yelcast. It was founded by members who share an affinity for art talks and food tripping, and who are forged by friendship and passion for art. One of the most rewarding and meaningful projects of Arte Bauan is the founding of its young art group, Arte Likha, in 2020. Arte Bauan initiated this during the pandemic, gathering young artists in Bauan and nearby municipalities who wholeheartedly share the same passion, ideas, and artistic values as the members of Arte Bauan. Through its Arte Bauan Calendar Project (“Sa Pagsikat ng Bagong Umaga”), Arte Bauan has provided Arte Likha members with free art materials and exposed them to art exhibits, campaigns, and conventions.
"Regenerate" by Marigonz
For the “Horizon” show, each of the artworks unveils a “narrative that encapsulates the essence of man’s quest for adventure.” Art, after all, is in itself a sort of quest. And artistic quests and advocacies often benefit from people and organizations with like minds and same intentions.
"Paraluman" by Dhennis Sigua
“Our goal is to showcase our art and our talent to a wider audience. So, we tried to find networks and avenues to connect to the world. (We got the help we need from) Kunst Filipino (2021 Banaag Presidential Awardee) and, very recently, Rotary Club of Hearts (Helping Empowerment through Arts and Sports). These are two organizations that are also into promoting art in the global arena. And with the help of these two groups, we were able to send Arte Bauan artists to Europe to showcase their skills.”
What lies on the horizon for members of Arte Bauan and Arte Likha? More paintings, much discussions about art, and the start of a journey from Artablado and onto the world stage.