“Mantas”, an exhibit of the works of ten artists from La Carlota City in Negros Occidental, opened at the White Space Gallery at the Art District in Bacolod City on Saturday, July 22, and will run until August 12.
The exhibit was opened by artist Charlie Co, Orange Project co-owner, and La Carlota City Councilor Fini Jalandoni.
On exhibit are the works of La Carlota artists Efren Atienza, James Estimada, Dann Gatucao, Redmond Nazareno, Abraham Obero, Patrick Pilar, Juno Rodriguez, Susanito Sarnate, Jaime Vicera and
Dandy Zamora.
Sarnate said “Mantas” is the old name of La Carlota City.
It referred to a brave native leader named “Mantas” who was believed to have defended his tribe against the invading pirates. Mantas also connotes a character of a La Carloteño who takes heart in facing the challenges in art making and holds a strong advocacy in exposing social realities using their skills as a weapon to promote positive change, he said.
Sarnate said they invited Co and Jalandoni to lead the opening of their exhibit because they have been very supportive of local artists.
Jalandoni said La Carlota is rich in artists from sculptors, painters, to those who are in the performance arts and music.
“We have a unique gift in La Carlota because we have a lot of artists in different mediums”, she said.*