Legazpi City, Albay — Bold, expressive, and deeply rooted in the Bicolano experience, Bikulayres 2.0 returns with renewed energy and a sharper vision, unveiling a rich collection of contemporary, social realism, and abstract art curated to spark both personal reflection and social dialogue.
The second installment of the groundbreaking regional exhibit was spearheaded by Dennis “DenCon” Concepcion, Founder and President of Art Lift PH – Bicol.
Building on the momentum of the original Bikulayres, the sequel offers not just continuity, but evolution.
“Due to the success of the past Bikulayres exhibit, it gave us motivation to continue what we’ve started,” said Concepcion. “We’ve gained a bigger audience through the support of our family and friends, fellow artists, art patrons, and the community.”
The primary difference this time? A deeper focus on art forms that challenge conventions and provoke thought—particularly contemporary, social realism, and abstract expressions.
A Collaboration Rooted in Community and Consistency
Held at Ayala Malls Legazpi, Bikulayres 2.0 is the result of a seamless collaboration among Art Lift PH – Bicol, Art Peninsula, and the mall itself, who share passion for promoting homegrown creativity.
“We applied the same process as before,” Concepcion shared. “Ayala Malls Legazpi has always been a part of our journey, and this partnership continues to open doors for our artists.”
The selection of featured works was guided by clarity, cohesion, and relevance to the exhibit’s core themes. “We based the criteria on neatness and alignment with the given categories,” the curator added.
The result is a showcase that captures the pulse of today’s Bicolano identity—its aspirations, realities, and collective consciousness.
Art as Mirror: Reflecting the Bicolano Soul
The choice of themes—contemporary, social realism, and abstract—is no accident. According to Concepcion, these genres challenge artists and viewers alike. “Those art forms fuel the imagination and reflection,” he explained. “As part of society, we need to seek evidence and understand the connection of the existing problems of our society.”
These intellectual and emotional engagements are especially vital for the region’s youth. “The younger generation are becoming fearless in expressing their hearts and minds,” Concepcion observed. “They have many ways in doing so, and creating art is one of them. But sharing them in an exhibit is another—and that’s what Bikulayres 2.0 provides.”
Concepcion hopes that the exhibit will serve as a revelation to its audience. “Bikulayres 2.0 will show them the ever-changing and evolving Bicolano art scene. I am hopeful that it will offer a new perspective in art.”
And timing is everything. With schools on vacation and the exhibit’s central location in Legazpi, the exhibit becomes highly accessible. “People from different places running errands or just wanting to relax will have sufficient time since it opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 8pm,” Concepcion added.
Stories from the Canvas: The Artists’ Voices
Julius Angelo Deterala, one of the returning artists, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the chance to exhibit again. “I’m truly grateful… Sir Dennis has always been supportive, and it means a lot that he continues to believe in my potential and in my art.”
Deterala’s submitted piece captures a quiet, fleeting moment—a contrast between stillness and motion. “My artwork shows how people cross paths quietly, each with their own story… The ‘Good Luck’ sign ties it all together, hinting at life’s twists and unseen connections,” he explained.
For Deterala, art is a deeply personal practice. “I often explore personal experiences, inner thoughts, and social issues. It’s my way of processing what I feel and observe around me.” He emphasized the importance of local platforms: “There are only a few art spaces in Bicol. Exhibits like this give local artists the chance to showcase their work and be seen.”
He also lauded the choice of venue. “Exhibiting in a mall makes art more accessible and reaches a wider audience. It invites people who might not experience art in galleries.”
Meanwhile, Rianne Borlagdan, a visual storyteller and mother, returned to the public eye with gratitude and passion. “After giving birth, I often wondered if I could still create art that connects with others. Bikulayres 2.0 inspires me to put myself out there once more and hopefully inspire others as well.”
Her piece, titled Pagpunpon ki Binalad, was inspired by a common rural sight—farmers drying harvested grains on the road. “I want to capture the everyday lives of Filipinos and create art pieces that bridge my imagination and reality,” she said, describing her use of watercolor and ink pen.
Borlagdan believes that exhibits like this play a crucial role in nurturing regional talent. “Bicolano artists are incredibly talented, and exhibits like this give them — especially the younger generation — a chance to shine and share their art with a wider audience.”
She echoed the sentiment that public venues make art more inclusive. “Exhibits in public places are a great way to bring art closer to everyday people,” she said. “It makes art feel more approachable and more accessible, especially for those who don’t usually visit traditional galleries.”
A Viewer’s Reflection: Seeing the Future in Color
For Ivan Dasalla, a visitor and supporter of the arts, Bikulayres 2.0 is more than just an exhibit—it’s a glimpse into the future of Bicolano art. “This exhibit shows that Bicolano art has a really strong and bright future. The works speak so much about our culture and stories.”
Dasalla emphasized that the impact of the exhibit shouldn’t end within the gallery walls. “We can help artists even after the exhibit. We can buy their art, post about it online, attend their events, or tell others about them. The community and local government should also step up by offering more chances for artists to showcase their work.”
As for the road ahead, Dasalla is optimistic: “This is just the start for Bikulayres. After this, they can join more art events, show their work to more people, or maybe create their own art space. They have a lot of talent and big dreams, and I’m excited to see what comes next.”
Conclusion: Bikulayres as a Movement, Not Just an Exhibit
In a region where creative voices are often underrepresented, Bikulayres 2.0 stands as a powerful reminder that Bicolano artistry is not only alive—it is thriving, expanding, and inspiring. Through its fusion of genre, community, and accessibility, the exhibit not only showcases the talent of its artists but also redefines how we experience art in the modern world.
Whether you’re a casual mall-goer, an art enthusiast, or a fellow artist, stepping into Bikulayres 2.0 offers more than visual delight—it offers insight into a community that’s rich with imagination, resilience, and heart.
Bikulayres 2.0 is open to the public daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM at Ayala Malls Legazpi which will run until June 30. | Angela Antivola