We revisit the artistry of Pancho Piano whose works we featured in our October 2022 edition. This month of September 2024, the Bicolano Maestro will be participating in three major art exhibits. BeCOOLism which is his 60th solo exhibit, will run from September 1 to 30, 2024. It is the inaugural exhibit of NAMI Gallery’s Katipunan Avenue branch in Quezon City. Presented below are the curatorial notes for the BeCOOLism art exhibit and a sampling of his works.
HANDOG KI INA showcases the artistic devotion of Bicolano artist Pancho Piano to the Virgin of Peñafrancia, fondly referred to as “Ina” by devotees. His art exhibit, held annually during the Peñafrancia Festivities, is an expression of gratitude to Ina. He was also the artist who created the stained glass windows of Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Peñafrancia and the glass art of the diamond jubilee dome of the Basilica and Naga Cathedral. Handog ki Ina will run from September 10 to October 10, 2024 at Our Lady of Peñafrancia Basilica Minore and National Shrine Museum, Balatas Road, Naga City.
Pancho Piano is the curator of PAGROMDOM: Kabikolan Noon at Ngayon. The first Bicol Art Fair will showcase the works of Bikol art collectives and Metro Manila based Bicolano artists: Salingoy Art Group, Kugos Bikol, Bicol Artist Tribe, Artist Guild of Sorsogon, Masbate Tudlo Artists’ Group, Salingoy Art Group Partido, Bicol Express-ion, Rinconada Artists, Artist Media and Artworks, AAP Tanay, Isla Catanduanes Visual Artist Group, and Sining Bicol. The art exhibit will run from September 8 to 30, 2024, at the V Gallery and Museum of Naga College Foundation in Liboton, Naga City.
All images herein were provided by Mr. Pancho Piano. We thank him for his generosity.
BeCOOLism Solo Art Exhibition
Curatorial Notes by NAMI Gallery
Pancho Piano is not only a gifted artist but also a respected figure in the artistic community. He has played a pivotal role as the founding President of the Bikol Expression Art Group, the Founding Chairman of the Salingoy Art Group in Bikol, and the Founding President of the Bikol Kugos Group. His dedication to the art field can be seen through his extensive resume, which includes an impressive 60 one-man shows and 250 group shows held locally and abroad.
One of the distinct features of Pancho Piano’s exhibition is his exploration of Bikol Legends, celebrating the rich folklore and traditions of the Bikol region. Inspired by the Peñafrancia and Mayon series, he beautifully captures the essence of these legendary tales and the majestic beauty of the Mayon Volcano. Additionally, Mr. Piano’s artistic expression expands beyond the realm of paintings, as he incorporates his love for playing the violin into his artwork. The exhibition also includes a violin series, which adds a unique touch to his creative storytelling.
In “BeCOOLism,” Mr. Piano skillfully merges his figurative and abstract styles to create a harmonious collection. His figurative paintings convey a sense of realism, showcasing his ability to capture the human form and emotions with precision and grace. On the other hand, his abstract paintings offer an introspection into the artist’s imagination, using colors, shapes, and textures to evoke a variety of emotions in the viewers.
Delve into the world of Pancho Piano’s art. Each stroke, every color choice, and the underlying narrative of each painting all contribute to the captivating experience that awaits you. We encourage you to explore the depth of his artistic prowess, where passion, talent, and creativity intertwine seamlessly.
Through “BeCOOLism,” Pancho Piano invites us to appreciate the masterful fusion of figurative and abstract art forms. We are presented with a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in his artistic journey, gain insight into Bikol legends, and witness the harmonious union of visual and musical arts.
Visit the BeCOOLism art collection at the NAMI Gallery.
BeCOOLism Art Sampler
Handog ki Ina Art Exhibition
Pancho Piano’s works evoke the classic ideals of Filipino art – the mother and child, legends and folklore, Bicol cultural practices, indigenous deities, historical and religious scenes. His depictions of the elegant provincial woman, or “daragang magayon,” recall the timeless illustrations of Fernando Amorsolo. At the same time, these stylings tread the boundary between the representational and the abstract. His figurative rendition of Bicol’s famous Peñafrancia Festival blends colonial Filipino architecture and clothing with scenes from rural life. He draws on the tradition of grand visual storytellers like Carlos “Botong” Francisco. He uses his artistry, in mural paintings and religious stained glass, to express his devotion to Our Lady of Peñafrancia. Through the years, he has done more than 30 devotional Handog ki Ina solo exhibitions. His paintings grace the elegant interiors of the Caceres Archbishop’s palace.
Handog ki Ina Art Sampler
