ILOMOCA features Asian aesthetics in Connecting Borders: A Collection of Southeast Asian Art, in commemoration of the ASEAN Month 2025.

In a dynamic celebration of ASEAN Month, the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art features Asian aesthetics through the works of Asian artists in Connecting Borders: A Collection of Southeast Asian Art, launched on August 9, 2025.

Marking a significant moment in Iloilo’s cultural calendar, the exhibition invites viewers into a vibrant visual dialogue that transcends national boundaries, illuminating the shared sensibilities and cultural nuances that define the region’s diverse cultures and artistic identity.

Connecting Borders brings together well-selected works of art from Edwin V. Valencia collection gathered from across the ASEAN member states—Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines—offering an introspective yet outward-looking narrative on regional interconnectedness. 

More than a display of diverse works, Connecting Borders is a curatorial gesture toward solidarity and the porous, evolving nature of Southeast Asian identity.

The launching was graced by key diplomatic figures, reflecting the spirit of cultural diplomacy and regional kinship. Among the guests of honor were H.E. Dato’ Malik Melvin Castelino (Ambassador of Malaysia), H.E. Constance See (Ambassador of Singapore), H.E. Lai Thai Binh (Ambassador of Vietnam), and Ms. Victorina Hesti Dewayani (Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Indonesia), who attended on behalf of H.E. Agus Widjojo.

Their presence, alongside local government officials and art patrons, affirmed the role of art as a bridge in ASEAN’s collective journey toward unity and mutual understanding.

Also on show at ILOMOCA: “Mga Kalibutan/Realms,” the 6th solo show of Marrz Capanang  

“The exhibition explores the thematic intersections of culture, identity, and imagination,” shared Cristal Esguerra, Curatorial Officer of Megaworld Museums. “It challenges rigid definitions of nationhood and tradition, proposing instead a more fluid understanding of artistic and cultural boundaries. Here, we see how artists respond to shared histories and futures through intimate, localized lenses.”

The roster of featured artists stands as a testament to the region’s rich contemporary practices, presenting works that delve into socio-political narratives, mythology, modernity, and materiality. These subjects intertwine with themes of labor, texture, spiritual resilience, and contemplative perspectives rooted in place and identity—offering a dynamic spectrum of vibrant visual expressions.

Malaysia is represented by Syahbandi Samat, Tajuddin Ismail, SC Shekar, and Ajim Juxta. From Singapore, Denise Jillian Tan presents her work, while Indonesia features Anton Subiyanto, Roby Dwi Antono, and Taufik Ermas. Thailand is represented by Verapong Sritrakulkitjakam and Pat Yingcharoen, and Vietnam by Hoai Huong, Nguyen Quang Trung, and Bui Van Hoan.

The host nation is represented by Filipino artists Renz Baluyot, Monica Delgado, Frelan Gonzaga, and Raffy Napay.

According to Maricel Montero, Director of ILOMOCA, the exhibition not only enriches Iloilo’s cultural offerings but also asserts the museum’s role as a platform for regional artistic discourse. “This exhibition reinforces Iloilo’s commitment to fostering intercultural exchange. Through contemporary art, we not only celebrate ASEAN Month—we also contribute to a more interconnected cultural vision for the region.”

Observed every August, the ASEAN Month commemorates the founding of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on August 8, 1967. It underscores the country’s enduring commitment to regional cooperation, cultural dialogue, and shared aspirations for inclusive progress. Through exhibitions such as Connecting Borders, the spirit of ASEAN is vividly realized through the eyes, hands, and voices of its artists.