In a vibrant celebration of National Arts Month, the Cebu Provincial Government inaugurated a month-long art exhibition at the historic Cebu Provincial Hall on Monday, February 2, 2026. This significant event brought together talented local artists from various towns and cities across the province, creating a collective showcase of Cebuano creativity and cultural heritage.
A Platform for Artistic Expression
Titled "Ani sa Kaalap-at, Kamatuuran, Kadasig, ug Paghi-usa," the exhibit presents a rich tapestry of artistic expressions. Visitors can explore an impressive array of works, including paintings, live painting demonstrations, intricate drawings, couture fashion pieces, sculptures, handicrafts, and other locally made creations. The showcase serves a dual purpose: providing a valuable platform for Cebu's artists while encouraging the public to appreciate and support homegrown talent.
Opening Ceremony Highlights
The opening program was beautifully enhanced by a choral performance from the renowned Jose R. Gullas Chorale, setting an inspiring tone for the month-long celebration of arts and culture at the Capitol. According to provincial officials, this exhibit represents part of their ongoing efforts to promote local artists and strengthen the creative industry throughout Cebu. The initiative specifically seeks to recognize the valuable contributions of painters, mural artists, designers, sculptors, weavers, and product designers whose works reflect the province's rich heritage and evolving artistic landscape.
Governor's Commitment to Creative Sector
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro emphasized the importance of institutional support for the creative sector during her remarks at the opening. She stated that the Provincial Government remains steadfast in its commitment to providing spaces where artists can develop their talents and receive proper recognition.
"To our artists and our creatives, know that your province sees you, believes in you, and will continue to support you," Governor Baricuatro declared passionately.
She further emphasized that the Capitol should serve as a safe and welcoming environment for creative expression, adding: "As your governor, I want you to feel that the Capitol and Cebu is your home — a place where your creativity is nurtured and your voices are valued."
The governor highlighted the broader cultural impact of supporting the arts, noting that the success of local creatives contributes significantly to strengthening Cebuano identity. "Because when our artists thrive, our culture grows stronger, and future generations learn to love who they are as Cebuanos," Baricuatro concluded.
From Street Artist to Capitol Invitee
Among the artists quietly working during the opening was 64-year-old live painter William Avila, whose presence at the Capitol carried the weight of decades of artistic persistence. Earlier this year, Avila unexpectedly gained social media attention after passersby shared videos of him live painting along Cebu City streets during the Sinulog Festival. His simple setup—consisting of canvas, paints, and steady hands—captured the curiosity of festivalgoers, eventually earning him a modest online following.
Despite this recent attention, Avila remains grounded in his routine, selling his artworks for as low as ₱150, with prices increasing based on size and complexity—making his art accessible to ordinary Cebuanos. However, being invited to the Capitol exhibit marked a different kind of recognition entirely.
"Nalipay jud kog maayo nga usa ko sa gi-invite diri sa Capitol (I was very happy that I was one of the artists invited here in Capitol)," Avila shared, expressing how meaningful the invitation felt to him.
He described the event as a rare opportunity for artists like himself to step into a space typically reserved for formal functions. "Dako kaayo ni nga activity ug kalihokan. Dako sad akong pasalamat nga naabot ko diri tungod sa ilang pag-invite (This is a big activity. I am also grateful that I am one of the artists they invited)," he added, noting that inclusion in such a provincial-level event proved deeply fulfilling.
Artistic Heritage and Future Hope
Avila's relationship with art began long before social media attention or public exhibits. He traces his passion back to his father, who was also an artist. "Since high school pa ko nag-paint kay akong amahan usa man pud ka artist. Mao ni iya negosyo — hantod karon, ako na'y nipadayun (I have been painting since high school since my father is also an artist. This used to be his business—since then I continued it)," he explained.
For him, the Capitol exhibit represents something many local artists long for: visibility beyond their usual circles. "Usa ni ka dako nga makahatag ug grasiya nga mailhan mi mga artist, ug mailhan sad ko sa publiko (This is one big thing that will give us artists a chance to be known in the public)," he noted, emphasizing that opportunities like this help artists gain recognition.
He believes such recognition can create a ripple effect, particularly among younger generations. Avila stressed the exhibit's potential impact on youth, whom he believes should be encouraged to pursue their creative passions. "Kini siya usa pud ni nga makahatag ug pag dasig sa mga kabatan-unan, nga ang ilang art, dili niya angay nga pabayaan, dili angay pasagdan (This will also help young people to lift their spirit that their art will not be wasted)," Avila stated thoughtfully.
Hoping for continuity of such programs, he expressed optimism about future initiatives: "Unta aduna pay sunod nga ingon ani puhon (I hope there will be more of this in the future)."
Exhibit Details and Public Access
The exhibit will run throughout the entire month of February at the Cebu Provincial Hall, offering residents and visitors ample opportunity to view, appreciate, and support the works of Cebuano artists. This collective display of local creativity and cultural pride serves as a fitting tribute to National Arts Month, reinforcing Cebu's commitment to nurturing its artistic community and preserving its cultural legacy for generations to come.
