HALA Cebu tells the stories of Cebu’s creative and cultural communities.

Words Patricia Lanzagarita
Photos courtesy of HALA Cebu
October 24, 2024

HALA Art & Design Folio aims to fill the documentation gap in Cebu’s vibrant creative landscape by capturing the reflections and journeys of every artist on the island.

Creative Evolution

As Cebu has been recognized as a UNESCO City of Design, the island’s creative landscape has evolved, often overshadowing emerging artists in favor of established institutions and figures. HALA is dedicated to ensuring that every story is recorded, preserved, and archived, allowing us to explore and understand their impacts on society and communities.

Celebrating Cebu’s Stories

“This is our chance and commitment to amplify the stories of Cebu,” says HALA Managing Editor and Acting Editor-in-Chief Lara Eviota. She expresses concern over the closure of art spaces, where emerging artists and designers often face undervaluation.

The folio is organized around four thematic pillars: Intersections, Seams, Wilderness, and Defiance. It features 16 longform stories, including behind-the-scenes insights into visual artist Ronyel Compra’s collaborative projects, self-organized drag shows by the Haus of Renaissance queens, and the cultural richness of quilts from Caohagan Island.

The Art of Archiving

“Proper archiving is invaluable,” states architect and furniture designer Jon Medalla, one of over 25 creators featured in the folio. “By skillfully archiving our ideas, we ensure that inspiration is never wasted.” Among the archived works are contributions from art curator Jay Nathan Jore, emerging visual artist Lucky Mitra, and climate activist Ava Arnejo.

By documenting Cebu’s creative landscape, the folio amplifies the identities of its artists, granting them the recognition they and their art deserve. HALA is committed to promoting regional voices, ensuring they resonate with both Cebuanos and those who hold the island close to their hearts.

HALA Art & Design Folio is available for a limited time at an early-bird price of Php 1000.