Cebu-based artist Gil Francis Maningo and New York-based Alfonso Ompod, Jr. made a promise when they were students in the UP College of Fine Arts that they will hold a joint exhibit of their art works. Forty years later, their promise was fulfilled when their Fishers of Men exhibit at the Philippine Center opened on 22 January 2019.
Consul General Claro S. Cristobal praised the works of the two artists, describing the pieces as “superlative”. He underscored the importance of Filipino art as a means of embodying our aspirations as a people and a tool in promoting our culture.
Maningo is a painter, photographer, composer, singer, actor, caricature artist, and the man behind the T-shirt brand KULAS (Kusog Ug Ligi-on Ang Sugbuanon). Ompod is now based in New York where he incorporates his signature fishbone in his drawings and paintings. Their exhibit was organized by Mr. Ping Panlilio, an art and antique enthusiast in New York.
The exhibit runs until 1 February 2019.