Negros Oriental Arts Month 2025: Let’s Talk About Art and Light

 

Negros Oriental Arts Month 2025: Let’s Talk About Art and Light

To culminate the celebration of National Arts Month (NAM) 2025, the National Museum of the Philippines-Dumaguete hosted an insightful art talk titled Whispers of Light, Echoes of Life featuring renowned Dumaguete-based visual artist and Fine Arts instructor Kevin Cornelia. The event took place last  February 28 at 2 PM and was attended by artists, students, and culture enthusiasts from various sectors of the province.

Artist Talk with Dumaguete Visual Artist Kevin Cornelia 

The Negros Oriental Alliance of Arts and Culture Advocates (NOAACA-INC) extended its gratitude to the National Museum of the Philippines-Dumaguete City Branch for organizing this meaningful event. Special appreciation was also given to Shimei R. Estimada, Head of the National Museum Dumaguete, as well as to notable guests such as Atty. Pristine Raymond, First Lady of Bayawan City, and representatives from St. Paul University Dumaguete (SPUD), the Paulinian Arts Society, the Buglas Reading & Writers Club, and museum staff F. Jordan Carnice, H. June Tubil, and Athena Piñero. CATIPO Head Sir Atilano Jude Silorio Cabangal, as well as Sir Nick Elemia and SPUD professor and NOAACA-INC president Penn T. Larena, were among those who attended the event.

 

NOACAA- INC Officers with Kevin Cornelia

Bayawan City First Lady Pristine Martinez Raymond ,CATIPO Head Sir Atilano Jude Silorio Cabangal, as well as Sir Nick Elemia

Kevin Cornelia, a Fine Arts instructor at Foundation University, shared his artistic journey and inspirations behind his monochromatic and dreamlike works. This event marked his second solo exhibition, following his successful showcase at the Mugna Art Gallery in 2024.

The art talk provided a space for reflection and discussion on contemporary Filipino art, artistic identity, and the evolving landscape of creative expression. The open forum was an enriching experience, encouraging dialogue on how art can illuminate personal narratives and social realities. This event aligned perfectly with the 2025 National Arts Month theme, Ani ng Sining: Diwa at Damdamin (Harvest of the Arts: Soul and Passion).

Commemorating the Spirit of Freedom and Democracy

In another significant event, NOAACA-INC, the BUGLAS Reading & Writers Club, and The Open Book Circle joined the nation in commemorating the 39th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution. As part of this tribute, members reaffirmed their commitment to preserving freedom, truth, and cultural expression for future generations. Special thanks were extended to the BSA students of St. Paul University Dumaguete under the guidance of Prof. Penn T. Larena for their participation in Reading in Philippine History.

Prof. Penn T. Larena, Advocate  OF Peace & Democracy 

Celebrating NOAACA-INC’s 5th Anniversary

The Negros Oriental Alliance of Culture & Arts Advocates (NOAACA-INC) also marked its 5th anniversary at La Mensa Buglas Isla Café. This milestone event served as an opportunity to reflect on the organization’s journey and its contributions to arts, culture, history, and heritage over the past five years. The group expressed its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported its mission and reaffirmed its dedication to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Negros Oriental.

As NOAACA-INC continues to grow, it acknowledges the guidance and blessings of God in strengthening its advocacy. The organization remains committed to fostering a vibrant arts and culture scene that honors the history and identity of the province.

5th Anniversary of  NOACCA-INC

Foundation University’s Art Exhibit at Robinsons Place Dumaguete

To further celebrate National Arts Month, the Foundation University Fine Arts Program hosted an art exhibit as part of the 17th University Expo at Robinsons Place Dumaguete on February 28, 2025. The exhibition showcased the talent and creativity of students, reinforcing the role of the university in shaping the next generation of artists in Negros Oriental. 

As the celebrations of National Arts Month 2025 come to an end, the events held throughout February highlighted the importance of artistic expression in shaping cultural identity. Through collaborations between artists, students, and cultural advocates, Negros Oriental continues to be a beacon of creativity and heritage preservation.

Foundation University Fine Arts Students