The UP Cebu Fine Arts presents BINUGKOS, a pilot thesis exhibition showcasing the works of 36 emerging artists from the third-year cohort of the Certificate of Fine Arts in Studio Arts.
Derived from the Cebuano word meaning “to bind” or “to unite,” Binugkos serves as both a concept and a reflection of the collective journey shared by the exhibiting artists. While each artist approaches art-making through distinct mediums, interests, and perspectives, the exhibition highlights how individual creative paths can intersect within a community of learning, experimentation, and growth.
At its core, Binugkos asks a simple yet profound question: What does it mean to be bound together?
Rather than seeking uniformity, the exhibition embraces difference. It recognizes that a collective is strengthened not by sameness but by the unique contributions of its members. Like a bundle whose strength comes from the varied elements that compose it, Binugkos celebrates the diverse artistic voices that have developed alongside one another throughout their academic journey.
The exhibition features a wide range of artistic practices, offering visitors a glimpse into the evolving landscape of contemporary art as interpreted by a new generation of artists. Through varied forms, materials, and conceptual approaches, the works reflect personal narratives, cultural reflections, social observations, and creative explorations that have emerged from years of study and studio practice.
Many of the exhibited works were conceived, developed, and produced within the shared studios, workshops, and creative spaces of UP Cebu. As such, the exhibition not only highlights individual artistic achievements but also reflects a culture of collaboration and mutual support fostered within the Studio Arts Program. The shared environment of making, critique, experimentation, and dialogue has become an integral part of the artists’ development, shaping both their creative processes and their understanding of artistic community.
Supported by Himoan Shared Spaces, Binugkos underscores the value of collective learning and resource-sharing in nurturing emerging artists. The exhibition stands as a testament to the role of communal spaces in encouraging innovation, risk-taking, and creative discovery.
As the first pilot thesis exhibition of the third-year Studio Arts students, Binugkos marks a significant milestone for the program. More than a showcase of finished works, it offers a preview of the artistic trajectories that these students continue to develop as they prepare for the next stage of their academic and creative pursuits.
Representing one cohort yet embodying thirty-six distinct artistic voices, Binugkos invites audiences to reflect on the relationships between individuality and community, difference and connection, personal expression and collective experience.
Participating artists include Isa M. and Christina Martinez, Bibiana Ann C. Conde, ICYDABOOBA, Reanne Borela, Kaye Plasquita, Codename_elias, Trisha Dayday, Wen Villaflor, Greia Lumaad, Johna Louren, Yohan Ungria, Erwyn Yu Jr., Diana Erana, ISABELLE, Rhou Lopez, Maria, GOZO, Akira, EIIJAY, Mayreegi, Vine, nabi, hani, Marce, Dwayne, Sayrel, Shannon, JIROU, Sepp, XinYi, Sawiami, Titanium, Van Cinco, Karl Furog, S. Samantha, and Sarahgrace.
Through their works, Binugkos becomes more than an exhibition—it becomes a celebration of shared journeys, creative solidarity, and the many possibilities that emerge when artists grow together while remaining true to their individual voices.