Bahay ni Mang Juan exhibits nostalgia within frame

Bedylyn Pacete December 14, 2023

Photographed by Aly Domingo

Nothing beats a simple life on the countryside, the core idea presented by the Lumina Art Group as they proudly revealed Bulakenyo masterpieces at the launch of their annual exhibit, which follows the theme of "Bahay ni Mang Juan" for 2023 and is openly displayed at the Blas F. Ople Hall, Capitol Compound, Malolos City, Bulacan.

Students mainly from Bulacan State University, Bulacan native artists, and curious painting enthusiasts gathered at the event’s place to attend the program and be astonished by the lines of uniquely made paintings that aim to showcase the traditional architecture and design of Filipino households. 

"'Yung ma-preserve, kasi madalang naman na talaga 'yung mga nakaka-appreciate ng bahay-kubo,” program host and among major participants, Chriz Salamat elaborated when asked about the inspiration behind this year's exhibit’s approach, “Bahay ni Mang Juan”.

Photographed by Bedylyn Pacete

Despite the core followed by the artists, the depicted emotions on each artwork vary, as testified by Dr. Rey Salamat, the pioneer and one of the art exhibitors of the event, who took pride in his laid art pieces that are inclined toward his personal life.

"Madalas akong namamangka noong araw, so naf-feel ko 'yung... feel ko 'yung na nandiyan ako," he explained. 

As an artist who grew up in Paombong, Bulacan, Dr. Salamat expresses adoration for his hometown through his four main paintings; Bahay sa Gilid, Bahay at Pinsa, Kubo sa may Balut, and Bahay sa Malumot na Munti, pieces displayed right at the center of the exhibit, featuring life within coastal areas.

Furthermore, Dr. Salamat shared the reason behind his thriving career and consistent engagement in the field of art ever since he started in 1986, “simple lang, mahal ko 'yung ginagawa ko, nag-e-enjoy ako sa ginagawa ko," he said.

Photographed by Bedylyn Pacete

Himig ng Buhay, Bahay ng Lolo ko, Vacation House, and Oh sige basta huwag ka magpapabili ha... are just some of the other available artworks in the exhibit that are not only open to be viewed but also available to be purchased by collectors.

Experience the nostalgia and tranquility of urban life through the paintings of Bulakenyo artists, as the “Bahay ni Mang Juan” exhibit of Lumina Art Group is set to be accessible until January 15.—OVERTURN