As part of Rizal’s 150th birth anniversary, a question arose. Where is Rizal in our time? How do we feel his presence? Artists of different generations remember him as a man of many sympathies and therefore open to be claimed by many causes.

This exhibit showcased artworks of more than 70 artists expressing how relevant is Rizal in their lives. Some of which are Mark Arcamo, Pam Yan Santos, Mike Cacnio, Henry Royales, Benedicto Cabrera, Jose John Santos III, Ramel Villas, Jerson Samson, Anthony Palomo, Jim Orencio, Kirby Roxas, Juanito Torres, Dante Lerma, Alee Garibay, Weena Soberano-Espardinez, Xander Calceta, Anton del Castillo, Jet Bernal, Raphael Pagarigan, Salvador Ching, Roen Capule, Cathy Lasam, Mark Justiniani, Conneth Amido, Raymond Legaspi, Julius Samson, Roel Obemio, AJ Tolentino, Rolf Campos, Daniel dela Cruz, Leonard Aguinaldo, Franklin Valencia, Jomer Bolesa, Rex Tatlonghari, Johann Bitancor, Japs Antido, Archie Oclos, Thomas Daquioag, Dawani de Leon, Plet Bolipata, Don Salubayba, Lina Ciani, Lotsu Manes, Brendale Tadeo, Neil Manalo, Sergio Bumatay III, Dansoy Coquilla, Jill Arwen Posadas, Chloe Dellosa, Farley del Rosario, Yveese Belen, Jomike Tejido, Liza Flores, Ferdinand Doctolero, Marika Constantino, Juan Elani Tulas, CJ Tanedo, Agang Maganda, Omi Reyes, Wesley Valenzuela, J Pacena, Jojo Ballo, Buen Calubayan, Anton Balao, Jef Carnay

What made this exhibit unique is that, aside from the artworks being exhibited in the Gallery, it was also photographed and turned into banners or tarpaulins that were then displayed all over the University of the Philippines campus for everyone to see; a great and unique way to bring the art closer to the people.

The exhibit runs from June 10 – 20, 2011 in the Vargas Museum, in Roxas Avenue, UP Campus Diliman, Quezon City and the remaining artworks will then be transferred to the Ben Cab Museum in Baguio for another exhibit. The banners however will be transformed into one-of-a-kind pieces of functional art in the form of tote bags. Part of the proceeds will be given to charities as part of Canvas’ advocacy.

CANVAS is a non-stock, non-profit organization and is committed to promoting broader awareness and appreciation for Philippine art, culture and environment. The Center for Art, New Ventures and Sustainable Development (CANVAS) not only showcase artworks from some of the best young contemporary Filipino artists but are also into the publication of children’s books written and designed by artists themselves.