Philippine Independence Day art exhibit celebrates freedom in Surrey

by Carlito Pablo on June 3rd, 2015 at 12:59 PM

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Filipino-Canadian artists are showcasing their works as part of this year’s community celebration of Philippine Independence Day.

The exhibit’s opening reception will be held Thursday (June 4) at 6 p.m. at the Surrey Arts Centre (13750 88 Avenue).

The display features works by members of the Dimasalang III International Artist Group, and has the theme Kalayaan (that’s the Filipino word for “freedom”).

Dimasalang was the pen name of Jose Rizal, a Filipino intellectual whose writings helped spark the first nationalist revolution against colonialism in Asia in 1896. The former Spanish colony declared independence on June 12, 1989.

Dimasalang is also the name of a street in the Philippine capital of Manila, where the original Dimasalang group of artists was born in 1968. Founder Sofronio Ylanan Mendoza, simply known as SYM, lived on that street. In 1981, he moved to Canada.

Vancouver-area artists Leonardo Cunanan Jr. and Danvic Briones are among those exhibiting their works at the exhibit until July 4.

SYM Mendoza, “Manila Hotel - Champagne Room” (oil on canvas).

Sandie Gillis, a volunteer with the Dimasalang group, told the Straight by phone that more than 30 pieces of works representing images of Philippine heritage and culture are on display.

Edgardo Lantin, “Hauling Fish” (oil on canvas).

In his message for the event, Neil Ferrer, consul general of the Philippines in Vancouver, wrote: “The choice of ‘Kalayaan’ (freedom) as theme has never been more appropriate: freedom for the Filipino artist, and freedom to stand alone and develop one’s own identity in today’s complex and inter-dependent environment.”