Artists optimistic of Bohol arts for tourism direction

CORTES, Bohol, March 13 (PIA)—Local artists and those in the creative industries are optimistic hearing the local government’s position supporting arts and culture for development. 

No less than Governor Arthur Yap, an economist lawyer and statesman bared this as he cited a report that shows elevated per capita incomes in places where creative economies are mainstreamed. 

The move towards arts and culture for development has been a new and yet an effective strategy for stirring local economies based on the precept that beautiful things bring joy and joy breeds productivity, local artists reasoned out. 

Besides, local culture and arts tend to have a higher economic value in the tourism industry market, that inspire people to revive local customs and traditions. 

At the Kapihan sa PIA dedicated to February as arts month, local artists represented by mixed media visual artist Jeffrey Sisican and painter Vincent Omar Dagdayan said they are seeing brighter days ahead for local visual artists and tourism novelty products manufacturers. 

There is so much development in the local arts scene now compared to the past years, Sisican, who now has regional and local exposure for his works bared. 

On the other hand, Dagdayan, a local painter and fine artist said there is still some need for exposure of local artists, aside from the occasional exhibits that allow the world to see  their works. 

But, despite the  marked progress of the industry, artists have always pointed to the need for government support during and in their ventures. 

Artists mean that aside from financial help when they go as a group to regional arts exhibits, providing a city gallery where most tourists seeking local art works can step into and purchase or meet local artisans. 

 While malls and supermarkets here occasionally offer spaces for artists to display their works, these are seasonal and the intricate process of exhibit ingress and egress often deal harsh effects to the art pieces. 

A gallery at least, allows controlled temperatures, proper display and an environment conducive for artists and their works. 

An arts gallery in the city also allows a permanent venue for artists and arts and would easily be a regular destination for tourists interested in local provenance. 

Artists are also thankful that at least a venue opened for them in Talimbaw Cafe in Alburquerque, Bohol.

Recently, two local artists have been declared winners in the Don Papa arts competition, the winners getting handsome prizes including international travel opportunities. The prize also includes packages for the local gallery.  (rahchiu/PIA7/Bohol)

Mixed media artist Jeffrey Ronald L. Sisican and painter Vincent Omar Lluvido Dagdayan agree that local artists would benefit from the tourism direction that Bohol is now plotting even as an economy based on creative arts have showed impressive gross per capita incomes. *rahchiu/PIA7/Bohol)