Employing the surrealist school of art, Ondong’s piece depicts a farmer and a fisherman fused into one with illusions of food—both from land and sea—surrounding them.

He explained that he wishes to show that we, as humans, are more than caretakers for the natural resources by which we thrive. 

Ondong also went on to say that he specifically employed surrealism because it challenges onlookers to not just look at his work, but to really see it, to take a moment to think and reflect on the subliminal messages hidden in plain sight.

“Everyone is an artist,” Ondong said. “Whether we create art or appreciate it, anyone who can understand art is already an artist.”

It can be recalled that Dipolog City has had its fair share of exposure in the art world, having hosted the recent Panit-Bukog (Flesh and Bone) 5 Exhibit, one of the most prestigious exhibits in Mindanao, just last year.

Dipolog City Mayor Darel Dexter T. Uy was more than vocal about his support for the local art scene.

“Art has always been a profound expression of our humanity,” Mayor Uy said. “It has the power to inspire, to provoke thought, and to spark change.”

“Art is the soul of our culture and the heartbeat of our community.”