SM City Iloilo Art Market unfolds as a showcase of the Ilonggo artists’ entrepreneurial spirit and artistic excellence, with the ground-floor entrance of Northpoint transformed into an art fair.

This year’s exhibit and sale highlights the works of 13 distinguished artists, each bringing their unique vision to life through a diverse selection of mediums and styles, inviting art afficionados, patrons, and collectors to acquire works ranging from evocative abstract paintings to depictions of everyday life in a mélange of themes and sizes.

Also read: Molo Mansion Art Space fulfills SM’s mission to grow regional arts

The well-curated SM City Iloilo Art Market 2024 shows the combined creations of independent artists, artists operating commercial art enterprises, and members of collectives like the Himbon Contemporary Ilonggo Artists Group—a longstanding partner of SM City Iloilo renowned for its monthly exhibitions at the mall and at the Molo Mansion gallery. This event not only underscores the group’s ongoing contribution to the local art scene but also introduces a broader audience to Iloilo’s creative legacy.

Among the featured artists are iconic figures like the Ferraris brothers, Nelson and Joel, whose works have made waves internationally over the past five decades. The exhibition also includes names who are considered ‘institutions’ such as Ed Defensor, Harry Mark Gonzales, Vic Fario, Jonathan Arro, Nick Lanes, Vic Nabor, and Joy Fernando, whose masterpieces have become prized possessions by collectors all over the world.

They are joined by celebrated contemporary artists like Ariel Pineda, Kevin Fernandez, Paolo Gabriel Nabor, and Querbyn, each adding their fresh perspectives to the vibrant array of artistic expression on display.

The SM City Iloilo Art Market 2024 affirms Iloilo’s position as an economic hub and a center of artistic excellence, becoming an art capital.

A Display of Diverse Artistic Expressions

The right wing of the exhibit floor is a celebration of Jonathan Arro’s “Still Life” collection, showcasing 21 vibrant acrylic on canvas paintings in various sizes. Arro’s work captures the essence of everyday objects with a full-bodied approach that brings each piece to life.

On the left, the exhibition transitions to the rich cultural and environmental themes portrayed by Joy Fernando with works occupying exterior to interior panels, giving viewers an immersive experience on the local culture, natural landscapes, and the vibrant Ilonggo way of life, offering a dynamic visual narrative.

At the heart of the exhibition is Joel Eduardo Ferraris’ “E-Xplorations,” a striking acrylic on canvas piece measuring 41 x 41 5/8 inches, part of his acclaimed 2014 collection from Hong Kong. Surrounding this centerpiece are various works from Ferraris’ Art Arsenal, including “E-Nlightened,” a collection of acrylic on canvas pieces sized 8 x 12 inches, “Urban E-Cology,” and “Prybuzzsee.”

Similarly, Nelson Eduardo Ferraris contributes his “Lifeforce Symphony Series,” featuring three acrylic on paper works (13.5 x 19 inches each) and an acrylic collage on canvas by Ed Defensor titled “Impromptu Weave” (10.5 x 16.5 inches, 2024).

The interior center panels are adorned with individual works by Kevin Fernandez, Ariel Pineda, Nick Lanes, and Harry Mark Gonzales. This section also features works of father and son duo Vic Nabor and Paolo Gabriel Nabor, blending generational perspectives into the exhibit’s rich tapestry.

The abstract art of Paolo Gabriel Nabor, with pieces titled “Muted,” “Inseparable,” and “Sa Mata Makikita,” conveys deep and evocative messages reflecting societal attitudes and personal experiences. “Muted” explores the theme of suppressed voices, illustrating how individuals may hesitate to express their views on social and political issues, often overwhelmed or silenced by the clamor of competing opinions.

Read: The circular art of Himbon and the ‘tondo’ technique

In contrast, “Sa Mata Makikita” highlights the significance of vision among the human senses. It emphasizes how our eyes play a crucial role in recognizing objects, appreciating art, enhancing our awareness of our surroundings, and even assessing the freshness of food, such as fish from market vendors.

The posterior part of the exhibition shifts focus to the works of Vic Nabor, Querbyn, and Vic Fario. Fario’s contributions are particularly notable, featuring stunning oil-on-canvas depictions of serene rural landscapes and vibrant natural settings.

Cultivating Creativity and Boosting the Local Economy

The art fair is set to energize both the creative and local economies, reflecting SM City Iloilo’s steadfast dedication to nurturing and advancing regional arts. Building on the success of past initiatives such as My City, My SM, My Art and its ongoing monthly art programming, the event underscores the commitment to fostering a vibrant local arts community.

The Art Market 2024 is a testament to SM City Iloilo’s role in the flourishing of Iloilo’s arts scene, contributing significantly to the establishment of the annual Iloilo Arts Festival and as venue of arts events. This initiative has catalyzed a more collaborative arts sector and a robust creative economy in the region.

Running from July 31 to October 10, 2024, the SM Art Market 2024 will feature exhibitions across 13 SM malls nationwide, highlighting the work of 13 distinguished Ilonggo artists. This nationwide showcase not only celebrates these talented artists but also enhances their visibility and impact.

Since 2019, SM Supermalls has partnered with over 500 local artists, and this year’s Art Market continues this tradition by offering both established and emerging artists a dynamic platform. The market aims to connect artists with a broader audience and stimulate growth within the creative economy. By supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within the arts, the initiative seeks to empower artists and expand their opportunities for success.