Banyuhay: A Celebration of Metamorphosis in the Art Scene

Quezon City, Philippines – The Kamaylayan Artists’ Initiative, headed by Paul Eric Roca, in partnership with Quarto Arts and Events, goes to Gateway Gallery on February 1, 2025 to launch contemporary art exhibit with the theme, “Banyuhay (Bagong Anyo ng Buhay),” an art exhibit that explores the profound theme of metamorphosis. 

“Banyuhay is metamorphosis or transformation because they want to have the artist to transform professionally,” Erniel Nañola, Quarto Arts and Events founder, said. 

The objective of “Banyuhay” serves as a profound initiative of Gateway Gallery to cater independent local artists to build connections on different distinguished galleries in the Philippines.

The art exhibit includes 46 exceptional artists from different groups, the Kamaylayan Artists’ Initiative (KAI), Lucban Artist Guild, and Ugnayan ng mga Artistang Tayabasin, as well as guest artists from Quezon Province.

One of the featured artist is Kurt Zubieta, Neitiviti Studios’ Lead Photographer and a Freelance Photojournalist, whose work explores social issues, environmental reports, and more. His distinct style focuses on Photo Documentaries, Photojournalism, Fine Art, and Creative Portraits. He also works as a full-time educator/Head School Paper Adviser at the Basic Education Department, Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation, Lucena City. 

At the exhibit, Zubieta is showcasing pieces of photographs in a photo essay format that highlights the beauty of “Pagsisimula” and “Paglaya.” 

His work includes, “Day” a four-paneled piece that captures the balance between light and liberty. Through the use of neutral hues and dynamic textures, it explores the idea of breaking free from constraints and embracing the endless possibilities of a new day. The birds symbolize peace, tranquility, and freedom. 

“Dawn” is a concept that focuses on new possibilities and the pursuit of freedom. With soft, vibrant tones and fluid forms, the pieces evoke the serenity of a calm sea despite of the continuous rain – a courage in meeting new people to embrace fresh beginnings. It reflects the harmony between renewal and the boundless spirit of freedom – the embodiment of two people meeting to open a new chapter in life without baggage, but peace.

With over 90 artworks spanning diverse genres and styles, the art exhibit invites audiences to immerse themselves in the transformative experience of artistic expressions. From traditional to contemporary pieces, the exhibit encapsulates the change, growth, and rebirth, mirroring the evolution of life and creativity. 

This highly anticipated art exhibition will run until February 14. 

For more information on the exhibit and participating artists, follow the official pages of Gateway Gallery, KAI, and Quarto Arts and Events.