The Philippine art scene is set to ignite with “Art Fusion,” a three-man exhibit featuring the new works of esteemed Filipino artists Raul Isidro, Juno Galang, and August Santiago. Presented by The Art District Gallery, the exhibit will run until June 28.

A common thread binding these accomplished artists is their shared alma mater, the University of Santo Tomas (UST). This deep-rooted connection, forged during their formative years at the College of Architecture and Fine Arts (now College of Fine Arts and Design), underpins their enduring artistic camaraderies. “We are all UST Ateliers Distinguished Alumni, making our relationship based on affinity, nature, interest, and qualities,” shares August.

Juno further emphasized this bond, stating, “We are friends from the same university with the same passion and dedication. We are all inspired in preserving our art and culture.”

While unified by their shared history, each artist in the exhibit brings their unique vision and trajectory.

Raul, a venerable figure in Philippine modernism and a protege of masters like Victorio Edades and Napoleon Abueva, graces the exhibit with his signature abstract composition. Known for his whimsical, vibrant, and colorful compositions, Raul's art mirrors his jovial and life-affirming personality.

“My composition is based on the ever-changing colors of the Mother Earth,” he reveals. "If you will observe the colors especially when you are on a flight, Mother Earth has so many changing colors of the sky from morning until evening, from summer until the rainy season."

At 82, Raul remains remarkably disciplined, painting daily and actively mentoring young artists. His enduring dedication to Mother Earth as a muse spans over six decades, dating back to his “Lunar Orbit” themed first one-man show in 1968.

Juno, an artist and designer who divides his time between Hawaii and the Philippines, showcases a fascinating evolution of his journey as an artist. His early career saw him immerse himself in photorealism, drawing heavily from American masters. In 2016, however, he transitioned to a more stylized approach, weaving memories of home and a festive Filipino palette into his works through a hybrid of expressionism and cubism. Since 2023, his work has embraced a more graphic and geometric sensibility, often featuring a fish, a symbol he associates with “prosperity, good luck, and happiness.”

He notes that while each artist maintains a distinctive style, “We are displaying and showcasing our skills and knowledge acquired in our many years of experience being an artist. Hopefully, we can inspire and encourage other artists to continue painting.”

August articulates his focus on “solitude” in the exhibit. He mentioned his figurative style with artworks such as “Water Bearer” and “Tres Figuras.” He also played a crucial role in organizing the exhibit that highlighting the “accumulation of knowledge and the working process with these dedicated artists in promoting and preserving our culture and arts. He observes a “modern simple style” that unites the trio, emphasizing that “working with them is such a breeze because we know our strength and qualities.”

“Our group show is a joint show of each artist doing our own individual style of artworks,” Raul affirmed, setting the stage for an exhibit that promises both harmonious interaction and compelling individual expression.

“Art Fusion” at The Art District Gallery is more than just the fusion of the minds of Raul, Juno, and August, but a testament to their enduring friendship, their shared legacies, and the continuous evolution of Philippine art. It offers a unique opportunity for art lovers to immerse themselves in a collection that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.