October 3-6, 2024 | Bulwagang Kanlahi, Tarlac City
Tarlac City, Philippines — The Luzon Art Fair 2024, held from October 3 to 6 at Bulwagang Kanlahi in Tarlac City, celebrated the rich heritage of Filipino culture through the captivating exhibit "Alamat Magpakailanman." Presented by Folklore Pilipinas, this exhibit brought together a multidisciplinary group of artists to reimagine and breathe new life into beloved Filipino folklore.
Folklore is the overarching term encompassing all traditional practices and stories within a culture. Folktales, myths, legends, and epics are specific subcategories that each serve distinct purposes and convey various aspects of cultural identity and values. Folktales are fictional narratives; myths focus on creation and spirituality; legends revolve around historical figures or events, often embellished; and epics celebrate heroic deeds and cultural ideals.
The exhibit offered a fresh take on figures such as Apo Anno, Bakunawa, Manananggal, Maria Makiling, Si Bulusan nan Si Aguingay, Alamat ng Paru-paro and many more, inviting visitors to experience the myths, legends, epics, and folktales through various artistic forms, including visual arts, animation, music, and film. Anchored in the Heritage Cycle of understanding, valuing, caring for, and enjoying cultural heritage, "Alamat Magpakailanman" renewed appreciation for Filipino folklore in a modern context.
Under the leadership of Artistic Director Lea Zoraína Lim, the exhibit united the efforts of a remarkable team of artists, filmmakers, musicians, writers, and educators. The participating artists who contributed their talents to this innovative project include:
Glenda Maye Abad
Billy Adonis
Daphne Aguilar
Aligagang Alikabok
Fidel Aquino
Pepot Atienza
Diana Aviado
Luigi Azura
Phoebe Beltran-Almazan
Mary Buendia
Geri Matthew "Choi" Carretero
Marc Steven Castro
Clint Catalan
Lucylle Cawaling
Marc Vincent Cosico
Kathleen Sareena Dagum
June Dalisay
Maoi Deauna
Tynne de Guzman
María Alexandria Enaje
Kirstein Ayn Go
Arnie Gonzales
Gabby Gonzales
Miguel Iskultura
Patrick Jean Jaquet
Dyani Lao
Nina Libatique
Lea Zoraína Lim
Liby Limoso
Kevin Lumbre
Thea Mújares
Gabí Nazareno
Eden Ocampo
Bryan Quesada
Aljon Ramírez
Joseph Renta
Benay Reyes
Jeff Reyes
Doris Rodriguez
Zion Jah Romero
Ding Royales
Hannah Belle Sindao
Angelica Soriano
Rurik Tabafunda
Erwin Torio
Margot Villamor
Chaday Villanueva
Rem Vocalan
Joy Waldas
Driven by their shared passion for folklore, these artists came together to offer a vibrant and immersive experience that blends traditional and digital media. Folklore Pilipinas continues to explore new ways of presenting Filipino heritage, with recent projects including the animated retelling of Datu Pat I Mata: Tudtulan Atag Sa Pulangi and mentorship programs with students interested in illustration, animation, and contemporary art forms.
The "Alamat Magpakailanman" exhibit provided an opportunity for audiences to revisit these cherished stories while connecting with the next generation of Filipino artists and their creative expressions. It served as one of the highlight attractions of the Luzon Art Fair 2024, drawing in art lovers, scholars, and folklore enthusiasts alike.
# # #
For more information, please contact Folklore Pilipinas at:
Folklore Pilipinas Facebook Page
CLINT CATALAN
Designer / Visual Artist
Comments