Legazpi city: More than 130 visual artists from across the Bicol Region are showcasing over 260 artworks in this year's "Art for Everyone 2026" exhibit at SM City Legazpi, providing a venue for local artists to market their works while encouraging aspiring creatives to pursue the arts. The two-week exhibit runs until July 30 and features 136 artists from Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Masbate, and Sorsogon.
According to Philippines News Agency, organized by Sining Bicol as part of SM's annual "Art for Everyone" program, the event aims to bring visual arts closer to the public while allowing local artists to exhibit their works. Sining Bicol president and exhibit organizer Vicky Balunso said the event reflects the organization's advocacy of bringing together artists from across the region, regardless of experience.
"Our advocacy is to unite artists across the Bicol Region. Seeing professional and beginner artists gathered in one venue is very fulfilling because it shows that our artistic community continues to grow," she said in an interview. Balunso said the exhibit gives both established and aspiring artists an opportunity to showcase their works and creativity before the public.
"Keep creating. Mistakes are part of learning. Be patient, stay focused on your passion, and continue developing your own artistic style," she said. Balunso also encouraged the public to support local artists, saying original artworks remain valuable despite the increasing use of artificial intelligence in art and design.
Iriga City artist Frederick Arcilla, 58, said the event allows artists to share their talents and the messages behind their paintings with a wider audience. "This event allows us to showcase our talent, our style of painting, and express what we want to convey through our artworks," he said. Arcilla also encouraged aspiring artists to continue improving their skills, saying artworks created by artists remain valuable because they reflect human creativity and expression.
Legazpi City-based artist Djoanna "Deejai" Tanji said the exhibit provides a welcoming space for aspiring artists who want to explore the local art scene. "It is a welcoming venue for beginners who want to explore the art scene. For those of us who have been painting for years, it is also an opportunity to showcase our work and inspire others to pursue their creativity," she said. Tanji said events such as Art for Everyone encourage emerging artists by showing them that they have a community where they can continue developing their talents.
"Being an artist is not just about creating inside your studio. It is about engaging with the community and sharing your gift with others. Art is not only for ourselves, but it is meant to inspire and serve everyone," she said.
