'Alab ng Sining' makes its debut in Cebu for Visayas Art Fair 2021

Early this year, former ad man Lloyd Tronco unveiled to the world the largest abstract painting in the Philippines as part of the National Arts Month, which I first wrote about here: Big dream: ‘Adman’ unveils largest abstract painting in PH

The idea behind it, the now full time artist says, is a statement on the democratization of art appreciation wherein art and the appreciation thereof should not only be confined within the walls of galleries, museums, or auction houses. Created during the pandemic, Tronco says it is also a statement on social distancing, as "one has to stand from afar to truly appreciate it."

"The world is our gallery, a place to share our God-given talents, a place to share our craft and ideas," Tronco continues. "The purpose of art is really to connect with as many people as possible. Let your community be your audience, not just a few art lovers who hop from one gallery to another and eventually stash away the painting as one would do a trophy."

Dexter Matilla with Lloyd Tronco with "Alab ng Sining" in its upright orientation along EDSA.

Thus, "Alab ng Sining", all 40x60ft of it, continues to fly high as it now finds itself in Cebu in time for Visayas Art Fair 2021. An undertaking by Cebu Design Week, Inc., its goal is to unite three regions (Regions 6, 7 & 8) to present to the world the identity of the Visayan arts and culture. The fair will take place from November 25 to 28 at the Montebello Hotel, Cebu.

So how exactly did Tronco, a proud Visayan, pull off this massive undertaking once more?

"From the time Alab ng Sining was pulled down in March, the artwork was stored in Manila for its next exposure," Tronco shares. "As early as March, my target next stop was really Cebu. I was just looking for the right timing for it. Then a month ago, I learned about the Visayas Art Fair and I thought this was the perfect time. So I searched for an available space which had the same dimensions as the artwork. I found one, only that the dimensions were in landscape mode."

That was really not a problem he adds as he has always signed his works in a manner where one can post it either in upright manner or lying down and his signature is still clearly visible.

For those visiting the Visayas Art Fair, Tronco says don't expect to see artworks at his booth.

"I just placed the story of 'Alab ng Sining' and directed the viewers to the site/location of the artwork," Tronco explains.

Now that "Alab ng Sining" has made its second stop, one wonders where could it pop up next?

"My target is Davao in February 2022 so that it coincides with National Arts Month again," Tronco says.

To this day, "Alab ng Sining" remains to be the largest artwork displayed in any art fair in the Philippines and is still consistent with its message that art should be appreciated by everyone and not just gallery goers.

By Dexter R. Matilla