SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – The provincial government of La Union, through the local government unit (LGU) of Bauang and in partnership with Ciano Umok Art Gallery and Dalikan,  launched the ‘Raniag’ Art Festival held at the Ciano Umok Art Gallery in Bauang town on August 12.
 
The ‘Raniag’ Art Festival is derived from the Ilocano word for “light” which serves as an avenue for Ilokano visual artists in the province to showcase their talents and artistry. 
 
The first-ever celebration was participated by more than 30 local visual artists who collaborated and put their artworks on display.
 
Participating groups were composed of the Aglaon (Artist Guild of La Union), Timpuyog Art Group, Dalikan, Guhit Pinas, and other individual artists within the province.

As he graced the event, La Union tourism officer Arthur Cortez acknowledged the group’s artistic endeavors pioneered by the Ciano Umok.
 
“We are very happy to know [that] this art gallery is for a cause because a portion of the sales of the artwork will be donated to the City of San Fernando Center for Women and Children, Nasudi Center,” said Cortez.
 
He also conveyed the provincial government’s strong support for them as partners of the local government, through the art pieces that they produce,  in promoting the province – its tourism, environment, culture and tradition, and people.
 
“We hope to come up with an event that will further this visual art and the culture of La Union,” said Cortez.

Meanwhile, as he lauded the participating artists, Cesar Dumo, the owner of the art gallery and an Ilokano artist, said without them and their works of art, there is no light to shine on their homeland. 
 
“Ang mga talento ng mga Ilokano sa arts ang nagbibigay liwanag sa community, nagbibigay sila ng inspirasyon at nagsisilbing liwanag  o ang tinatawag na  raniag iti komunidad,” said Dumo.
 
Moreover, the said activity will serve as a healing tool to renew the artists’ spirit in painting. 
 
Aside from the month-long art exhibit, the LGU and its partners conducted an art clinic, art demo, and art talk which coincided with the launching activity.

An art mural will also be conducted on August 19.
 
The Raniag Art Festival will run from August 12 until September 12. (JCR/AMB/KJCR, PIA La Union)