The Art Association of Bacolod-Negros, one of the groups associated with the beginnings of the MassKara Festival, formally launched its “Colors of Courage” group exhibition at Robinsons Bacolod on Monday, Oct. 5.
Organized in partnership with Robinsons Bacolod, the exhibit features works by 37 local artists and forms part of AABN’s activities as the association marks its 51st year.
AABN is considered one of the country’s longest-running art organizations and has played a significant role in the development of Bacolod’s visual arts community.
The association also traces its history to the origins of MassKara Festival.
Its former president, artist Ely Santiago, coined the name “MassKara” from the English word “mass,” referring to a multitude of people, and the Spanish word “cara,” meaning face.
Santiago also designed the festival’s first MassKara logo.
Guests of honor during the opening included Phoebe David, Philippine country president of the Association of Business Women in Commerce and recipient of the 2026 Beacon of Hope and Social Change Transformational Leader Award in Auckland, New Zealand; Maria Loreta Ramon, Miss MassKara Golden Jubilee Queen 1988; and Robinsons Bacolod mall manager Engr. Ryan Sumpay.
Among the artists featured in the exhibition are Patty Jane Ong, Roanna Ruperto, Esther Palomata, Alfred Esparcia, Mei Lonasco, Joesar Garcillan, Tracy Uhlmann, Francisco Jubelag Jr., GilJohn Quiamco, Cresline Corsiga, Juliet Emperado, Vaughn Fennel Gacias, Bienvenido Tarrosa, Gigi Villamor, Leopold De La Cruz and Edgar Villanueva.
Also participating are Joey Cabiles, Marie Resureccion, Sugar Cuenca-Tonogbanua, Anthony Tonogbanua, Chrysee Samillano, Pol Bautista, Sol Alejandrino, Sony Golez, Fe Sumagaysay, Raul Magpayo, Ramon Alonso, Ching Cuesta or RITARCUCU, Ian Valladarez, Junwel Alarcon, Arjay Padios, Konica Faustino, Henry John Golez, Roseller Fernandez, Agustin Chavez and Sandy Coberos.
The “Colors of Courage” exhibition is open to the public at Robinsons Bacolod until Oct. 18.*
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