First day of Cebu ABF 2022, a success

Sikada, a group of Cebuano illustrators, is among the local artists who participated in this year’s Cebu Art Book Fair, the first of its kind in the country. CDN Digital photo | Wenilyn B. Sabalo

Various illustrators, designers, writers, and poets converged in the Queen City of the South for the book fair, which centered on the theme “Estoryang Binutbut.”

Among the groups of artists that exhibited their art works is the Sikada, composed of seven illustrators residing in Cebu, whose works range from dark-themed to bubbly ones.

Wilbert Wee, or better known as “Weebong” to his fans, said he is grateful for this kind of opportunities that highlights local artists.

“It helps Cebu artists get promoted and since it’s a comeback after the pandemic, it brings life to each and everyone’s life both the artist and the fans and the community who loves arts and books in general. And it’s the first event nga Cebu organized,” he told CDN Digital.

Wee said their group just came together because of their love for illustration and they too dreamed of having their own art work exhibit someday.

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Veronika Hipolito, one of Sikada’s illustrators, said it is nice that even with the rise of digital art appreciation, people still continue to appreciate traditional arts.

“Grateful bitaw because it is still visible that there are a lot of people nga truly appreciate gihapon sa kuan, truly supports gihapon local artists and it is amazing bitaw nga you can see here sa event nga taas kaayo ang pila ana ba. So, maka appreciate jud ka nga nibalik ang sigla jud sa Cebu,” she said.

“Nalipay mi bahala’g inani kagamay ang event pero naay daghan man diay mo participate ba kay balik naman gikan sa pandemic,” she added.

This year’s Cebu Art Book Fair features various art books, zines, posters, chapbooks, poetry, collectibles, workshops, poster show, and printed matter, among others, made by Cebu artists.

/bmjo