The Art Association of Bacolod-Negros (AABN), in partnership with Robinsons Bacolod, launched a group exhibition Oct. 5, titled “Colors of Courage”, which features the works of 37 local artists.
Guests of honor at the opening ceremony were Phoebe David, Philippine country president of the Association of Business Women in Commerce, and a recipient of the Beacon of Hope and Social Change Transformational Leader Award 2026 in Auckland, New Zealand; Maria Loreta Ramon, Miss Masskara Golden Jubilee Queen 88; and Robinsons Bacolod mall manager, Engr. Ryan Sumpay.
AABN, one of the originators of the MassKara Festival, turned 51 this year, and is one of the country’s longest running art associations.
Its past president Ely Santiago coined the word MassKara, which came from the English word “mass”, or a multitude of people, and “cara”, a Spanish word meaning face. He also designed the first MassKara logo.
Featured artists 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, Edgar Villanueva, 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, Ian Valladarez, Junwel Alarcon, Arjay Padios, Konica Faustino, Henry John Golez, Roseller Fernandez, Agustin Chavez, and Sandy Coberos.
The exhibit runs until Oct. 18. ||
