Cagayan de Oro can be a hub for creatives, artists, and designers.
“We want to put CDO on the map. Nag-level up na ang Cagayan [Cagayan has leveled up], there are so many active designers already, not only in fashion,” Chris Gomez, co-chairman of the Kagay-an Misamis Creative Industries Development Council.
Gomez, an artist-designer based in the city, said there has been a lot of initiative this year for all the creatives, which include the nine domains of visual arts, design, architecture and interior design, movies, graphics, music, performers, theater, literature, and anything done creatively that is a form of livelihood.
“As co-chairs, we want an inclusive program for all the creatives,” he said at the recent Talakayan sa PIA.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is a supporter of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Councils Act, also known as Republic Act (RA) 11904, which aims to institutionalize and support the creative sector in the Philippines.
Based on the economic contribution of the creative providers, they have contributed much to the Philippine economy, which is why the government has prioritized the creative sector, shared Gomez.
Art exposure
Art is the mirror of the community people live in.
In his younger years, Chris was exposed to friends who were artists, and in college, he became one. He was invited to groups and then exposed not just to exhibitions but, more importantly, to other art forms, not just about painting.
“If you are an artist and makita nimo nga creative ka [if you see yourself as a creative], you don’t only see, read, or watch one thing; you are open to exposure,” Chris said. Thus, his work is in design.
It starts with materials. “I don’t start with the idea of drawing it or sketching it; it all starts with the material. I always study the strength of materials and the sustainability of materials if they are going to be mass produced. Will it sustain the material? Then comes design. What kind of design am I going to produce?” he explained.
There is a big gap between regional artists and national artists. Gomez shared that Manila is the center, and they all have access and the platform, but regionally, it is a bit of a struggle.
Artists are made, not born.
At the end of the day, one is called an artist based on their production and body of work. “Artist man ko, ga-paint baya ko [Hey I am an artist, I paint]. So when you say you paint, I’m asking you about your dedication and your commitment," Gomez said.
Being an artist is a commitment; in his perspective, Gomez is not against hobbyists turning into artists, but he emphasizes the importance of delving deeper. He said one must inquire, "To what extent have they produced their works?" When individuals embrace the role of an artist, they are expected to showcase their creations and be open to receiving constructive criticism, he added.
Gomez said there are numerous ways for an artist to experience growth by seeking mentors and connecting with other artists or groups for collaboration. A healthy community for artists is a creative one. The ultimate goal for an artist is the ability to pursue personal expression and showcase their work—that's the essence. The added bonus comes when the artist's creations are appreciated and sold.
“It’s never in my mind that I will show because I will sell,” he said.
At times, individuals would inquire why a person from Mindanao doesn't focus on themes related to war. He explained that culture is an evolutionary process, and at times, influences from other cultures shape one's perspectives, contributing to its continual growth.
There are many artists who tackle peace and women's empowerment, among others; it depends on the intention. But it could also be a design that could solve a problem in the community. It is different when people go to other countries and see their place, so design-driven everything is smooth flowing, he shared.
Kagay-anons should support National Arts Month by buying from a local artist, commissioning them for art, and supporting their activities, said Gomez. (JMOR/PIA-10)
