If you want to meet some of the most talented and moving artists of the Philippines, then you don't need to look anywhere further than Baguio. This cool city, tucked in the safety of mountains, houses some of the Philippines' best painters, craftsmen and movie directors. Let's get to know more of some of Baguio city's most popular artists.
Kidlat Tahimik
Kidlat Tahimik, the quiet yet striking film maker based in Baguio, is famous for his semi-autobiographical film, Mababangong Bangungot (Perfumed Nightmare). This artist almost always fuses personal ideologies with nationalistic themes. He once brought a Filipino jeepney on a European country, just to make a point (that Filipinos can get anywhere). Kidlat is also known sporting a traditional bahag in formal events like art awards. The reserved Kidlat makes sure he always makes an impression for all of the people he encounters.
Kawayan de Guia
Son of Kidlat Tahimik, this fair-skinned, chiseled-faced young man has proven that he can stand out on his own. An accomplished painter, Kawayan has been invited all over the world in different art residences. His constant practice and perfection on paint and brush has also made him a favorite of local art publications, such as the high-class Rogue Magazine. Kawayan also helps his father on the local Baguio art scene. Father and son hold art gatherings with other artists in the City of Pines.
Benedicto Cabrera
As the National Artist of the Visual Arts, Baguio takes pride on having Benedicto Cabrera as one of its famous residents. Bencab, as he is fondly called, is known for his striking works of art. Almost all of his works ever exhibited in any gallery in the Philippines have been sold off. Bencab's love affair with Baguio city had first started in the year 1990. The national artist, together with other local art institutions, helped Baguio recover from a devastating earthquake by holding art workshops and auctions in the city. Now, the talented artist spends his time maintaining and curating Baguio's latest landmark, the Bencab museum.
Baguio city is home to a diverse number of Filipino artists. Kidlat Tahimik is a famous film maker proud of his heritage. Kawayan de Guia shows how local painters can make it big in the international art scene. Bencab proved again and again that a career in the arts can not only prove financially-rewarding, but can be an asset to help those in need. The next time you visit Baguio, try to look for these artists. You just won't enjoy their work, you'll find out how pleasant they are to be with as well.