Kidlat sa Bilis

Recently, Ang Ilustrador ng Kabataan held its 21st Annual Exhibition, entitled Mabubulaklak na Dila, Mga Sawikaing Filipino, all about Filipino idiomatic expressions, or “sawikain” We had to create a spot illustration interpreting common idioms and I was assigned to work on “Kidlat sa Bilis”, (translated as "fast as lightining") which meant to move very fast. While thinking up on this piece I asked myself "When do we run our fastest?" Of course, when we are running for our lives. 

I even imagined a background story on the piece: Mom asked Boy Kidlat to buy vinegar, but is so afraid of neighbor’s dog… so he took his Lolo’s agimat that grants him the gift of unnatural speed! 

The exhibit at CANVAS.ph has recently concluded, but the other pieces can be seen at the UP College of Fine Arts starting December 6, 2012.

21st AngI.n.K. Annual Exhibition: Mabubulaklak na Dila - Mga Sawikaing Filipino

It’s the time of the year again when InKies showcase their obsession for creation through the power of children’s illustration. The 21st Annual Exhibition of Ang Ilustrador ng Kabataan (AngI.n.K.) is entitled “Mabubulaklak na Dila: Mga Sawikaing Filipino” and here we illustrate various distinctively Filipino idiomatic expressions. Seeing the previews of the submitted works of art, I couldn’t help but be excited to see how the participating artists interpreted more than 50+ “sawikain” This is surely going to be one entertaining exhibit! And entertaining is the apt word because your eyes and mind will feast on the variety of styles: from the intriguing, controversial and mysterious to the literal, ridiculous and humorous treatment.

You’re invited to visit the exhibit and look at the masterpieces. If you like, play a little game. Try to guess the “sawikain” correctly without looking at the title card of the painting and see how well you score! (That’s what I’m gonna do!) Better yet, if you like the paintings, you can bring them home (but leave some money, we worked hard for our babies).



The show runs from November 16-30, 2012 at CANVAS Gallery and Gardens. Opening reception is on November 16 5PM. See you guys there!