VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur (PIA) — In the pursuit to showcase Ilokano artistry to the tourists and locals in Vigan City, the Mercante de Ilocos Sur Art Festival featured the works of some 28 local artists.

Emerson Rabbon, an artist from Santa Catalina town, during the opening said, “This is a great event for us because almost all artists who recently had little to no exposure are now given a platform where their art can be seen.”

The art fest was organized by the Provincial Government of Ilocos through the Ilocos Sur Livelihood Museum and the Ilocos Sur Export Enterprise (ISEED) Cooperative.

Architect Roel Salvatierra, the head of Ylocontemporaryo, a group of Ilokano artists in the province, expressed his gratitude for the continuous activities of the local government supporting artists.

“In behalf of all the artists who are participating in the art fest here in Ilocos Sur, and even those in our Manila exhibits, we, the Ylocontemporaryo artist collective, are grateful and appreciative of the provincial government for giving contemporary artists in the province the chance to show our creative outputs, and for supporting us all the way,” he said. 

Moreover, vibrant life-sized paintings, miniature art pieces, and reminiscent somber works are displayed at the Plaza Salcedo in this city from December 16 to 23.

Interested art enthusiasts and curious folks may visit the booths from 3:00 p.m. until midnight. 

On the 17th, the art fest featured a cosplay show, art in the park Ylocontemporaryo way, and art jam.

The artists also held an art trade and sold artist’s merchandise on the same day. 

The mercante was formally opened on December 16 with Ilocos Sur Governor Jerry Singson, Mayor Bonito Singson, and the Department of Trade and Industry Provincial Director Rosario Quodala gracing the event. (JCR/MJTAB/ATV PIA, Ilocos Sur)