Jay Ruiz and Partners Open Sentro Artista: A Hub for Local Artists
Broadcast journalist Jay Ruiz, in collaboration with Quezon City First District Representative Arjo Atayde, businessman Joseph Lumbad, and councilor Geleen Lumbad, has recently established an art gallery called Sentro Artista. Located at the Arton Strip by Rockwell along Katipunan Avenue in Quezon City, Sentro Artista aims to support and showcase the finest talents in visual, performance, literary, and culinary arts in the Philippines.
Sentro Artista is not just an ordinary art gallery; it is a dynamic hub that provides a platform for local artists to thrive and connect with a wider audience. The gallery features a diverse range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and mixed media pieces. Each artwork is carefully selected by a panel of experts to ensure the highest quality and artistic integrity.
In addition to showcasing visual arts, Sentro Artista also hosts regular performances by talented musicians, dancers, and theater groups. The gallery has a state-of-the-art performance space equipped with sound and lighting systems, making it an ideal venue for concerts, recitals, and theatrical productions. This provides a unique opportunity for artists from different disciplines to collaborate and create innovative and boundary-pushing performances.
Recognizing the importance of literature in the arts, Sentro Artista has a dedicated section for literary arts. It houses a collection of books written by local authors, as well as a space for book launches, readings, and discussions. This creates a nurturing environment for writers to share their work and engage with readers and fellow artists.
Furthermore, Sentro Artista takes pride in its culinary arts program, which showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of local chefs. The gallery features a café that serves delectable dishes inspired by Filipino cuisine, with each plate carefully crafted as a work of art. Visitors can indulge in a unique dining experience while appreciating the visual and performing arts on display.
As a hub for local artists, Sentro Artista also offers workshops, masterclasses, and artist residencies to foster artistic growth and development. These programs provide aspiring artists with the opportunity to learn from established professionals and gain valuable insights into their respective fields.
Overall, Sentro Artista is more than just a gallery; it is a vibrant and inclusive community that celebrates the rich and diverse artistic heritage of the Philippines. Through its various initiatives, it aims to nurture and promote local talent, fostering a thriving arts scene that is appreciated both locally and internationally.
Ruiz’s journey back to his passion for art began when he attended an art exhibit in his hometown. The vibrant colors, intricate details, and thought-provoking messages conveyed through the artworks captivated him. It was a moment of realization that reignited his love for the arts.
Driven by his newfound passion, Ruiz started attending art workshops and immersing himself in the local art community. He discovered the immense talent and creativity that existed within his own city, and he was determined to provide a platform for these artists to showcase their work.
With the support of his wife Marjorie and their close-knit group of friends, Ruiz decided to create an art hub. The vision was to establish a space where artists could gather, collaborate, and exhibit their artworks. It would be a place where creativity could flourish and art enthusiasts could come together to appreciate and support local talent.
The art hub quickly gained recognition within the community, attracting both established artists and emerging talents. It became a hub of artistic expression, where artists could experiment with different mediums, styles, and techniques. The space was filled with the energy of creativity, as artists shared ideas, inspired one another, and pushed the boundaries of their art.
Ruiz’s role as a patron and supporter of local artists extended beyond providing a physical space for them to showcase their work. He actively sought opportunities for these artists to gain exposure, collaborating with galleries, curators, and art enthusiasts to organize exhibitions and events. Through these initiatives, he aimed to bring the local art scene into the spotlight and create a thriving ecosystem for artists to thrive.
“Art has the power to inspire, provoke emotions, and ignite conversations. It is a reflection of our society and a medium through which we can express our deepest thoughts and feelings. I believe in the importance of supporting local artists and providing them with the recognition they deserve,” Ruiz emphasized.
As the art hub continued to grow and flourish, Ruiz’s passion for art became a driving force in his life. He found fulfillment in witnessing the transformation of artists, seeing their confidence soar as they gained recognition for their work. The art hub became a testament to the power of passion and the impact it can have on individuals and communities.
The “Forward” art exhibit promises to be a grand celebration of Jay Ruiz’s 50th birthday, showcasing the artistic talent of both established and emerging contemporary artists. The exhibit will be held at Sentro Artista, a renowned art gallery known for its dedication to supporting and promoting local artists. With its spacious and well-lit exhibition halls, Sentro Artista provides the perfect backdrop for the diverse range of artworks that will be on display during the event.
Visitors to the exhibit can expect to be captivated by the works of Fidel Sarmiento, whose abstract paintings evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue. Sarmiento’s use of bold colors and dynamic brushstrokes creates a visually stunning experience that invites viewers to delve deeper into the layers of his art.
Jojo dela Cruz, on the other hand, explores the theme of identity and self-discovery through his thought-provoking sculptures. His use of unconventional materials and innovative techniques challenges traditional notions of sculpture and pushes the boundaries of artistic expression.
Justine Velasquez, a rising star in the art world, will also be showcasing her latest series of mixed media artworks. Velasquez’s work combines elements of painting, collage, and photography to create visually striking pieces that explore the intersection between reality and imagination.
Another artist to look out for is Marc Salamat, whose vibrant and energetic paintings capture the essence of urban life. Salamat’s use of bold brushstrokes and vivid colors brings his subjects to life, infusing each piece with a sense of dynamism and movement.
Archie Sumilang, Bryan Apolinario, Del Torano, and Dhennis Sigua will also be contributing their unique artistic perspectives to the “Forward” exhibit. Each artist brings their own distinct style and vision to the table, ensuring a diverse and engaging showcase of contemporary art.
As the 20th exhibit hosted by Sentro Artista, the “Forward” art exhibit serves as a testament to the gallery’s commitment to supporting and promoting local art and culture. Over the years, Sentro Artista has become a hub for artists and art enthusiasts alike, providing a platform for creativity and artistic expression.
With its rich history and dedication to showcasing the best of the local art scene, Sentro Artista has established itself as a leading force in the art community. The gallery’s spacious exhibition halls, expertly curated shows, and vibrant atmosphere have made it a go-to destination for art lovers seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty and creativity of Philippine contemporary art.
The “Forward” art exhibit will undoubtedly be a milestone event for both Jay Ruiz and Sentro Artista. It will not only celebrate Ruiz’s 50th birthday but also serve as a testament to the power of art in bringing people together and inspiring positive change.
Jay Ruiz’s journey of passion and excellence has been a remarkable one, shaped by his deep-rooted love for the arts and his unwavering commitment to his craft. Growing up in the picturesque town of Sarrat, Ilocos Norte, Ruiz was exposed to the vibrant culture and rich artistic traditions of his community from an early age. This exposure ignited a fire within him, a burning desire to explore and express himself through various art forms.
As fate would have it, Ruiz’s path led him to the United States for his high school education. It was during this time that he truly began to nurture his artistic talents and delve deeper into the world of theater. He honed his skills and developed a keen understanding of the power of storytelling and its ability to captivate and inspire audiences.
With his passion for the arts firmly ingrained in his heart, Ruiz pursued a degree in Speech and Drama from the prestigious University of the Philippines in Diliman. Here, he was exposed to a diverse range of theatrical styles and techniques, further fueling his creative spirit and pushing him to explore new horizons.
While theater had initially captured his heart, it was in the field of journalism that Ruiz found his true calling. In January 1999, he joined ABS-CBN as a special reports group researcher, immersing himself in the world of news and current affairs. His dedication and hard work soon paid off, and he became an integral part of the news department’s reportorial team.
However, it was during the challenging times brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic that Ruiz’s passion for broadcasting was reignited. As the world grappled with the devastating effects of the virus, he found himself hosting a local news program for the Department of the Interior and Local Government called “Kuwentuhang Local” on DZMM Teleradyo. Through this platform, Ruiz was able to provide vital information and support to his community, using his skills as a journalist to navigate through the complexities of the crisis.
The end of the global health crisis served as a turning point in Ruiz’s life, inspiring him to establish Sentro Artista. This endeavor was born out of his deep appreciation for the arts and his desire to contribute to the advancement of culture in his beloved country. Sentro Artista serves as a platform for emerging artists, providing them with opportunities to showcase their talent and creativity.
Reflecting on his journey, Ruiz expressed profound gratitude for the winding path that led him to where he is today. He acknowledged that while he may have taken a longer route, every twist and turn has prepared him to pursue his passion with even greater fervor. With Sentro Artista as his vessel, Jay Ruiz continues to champion the arts, using his platform to inspire, uplift, and celebrate the incredible talents that abound in the Philippines.
Celebrating with Gastronomic Delights
As an added feature to the birthday celebration, Sentro Artista will also showcase the culinary expertise of Chef Melissa Rocha. Known for her gastronomic wonders and signature twists on heirloom dishes, Chef Melissa Rocha will be the first chef to be featured at Sentro Artista. She is expected to bring her Kapampangan, Cebuano, Boholanon, and Visayan-inspired cuisines, complementing the vibrant cultural atmosphere of Sentro Artista.
The reception for the “Forward” art exhibit will be held at 5 p.m. on April 26 at Sentro Artista. For more details about the event, please visit Sentro Artista’s Facebook page (Sentro Artista Philippines) and Instagram account (sentro_artista).
Guests attending the event can look forward to a culinary experience like no other. Chef Melissa Rocha’s dishes are not only visually stunning but also burst with flavors that will tantalize the taste buds. Drawing inspiration from her diverse background, Chef Rocha combines traditional recipes with her own innovative twists, resulting in a unique fusion of flavors.
One of the highlights of the evening will be Chef Rocha’s Kapampangan-inspired cuisine. Hailing from the province of Pampanga, known as the culinary capital of the Philippines, Chef Rocha has mastered the art of creating mouthwatering dishes that pay homage to her roots. From the iconic Sisig to the delectable Bringhe, guests will have the opportunity to savor the rich flavors and textures of Kapampangan cuisine.
In addition to her Kapampangan specialties, Chef Rocha will also showcase her expertise in Cebuano, Boholanon, and Visayan-inspired dishes. These regional cuisines are known for their fresh ingredients and bold flavors, reflecting the vibrant culture and traditions of the Visayas and Mindanao regions. From the famous Lechon Cebu to the hearty Dinuguan, guests will have a chance to explore the diverse culinary landscape of the Philippines.
As guests indulge in the gastronomic delights prepared by Chef Rocha, they will also have the opportunity to learn about the cultural significance of each dish. Chef Rocha is passionate about promoting Filipino cuisine and believes that food is not just nourishment but also a reflection of a nation’s history and heritage. Through her creations, she aims to showcase the rich culinary traditions of the Philippines and inspire a deeper appreciation for local flavors.
The collaboration between Sentro Artista and Chef Melissa Rocha is a testament to their shared commitment to celebrating Filipino art and culture. By combining visual art with culinary art, they aim to create a multisensory experience that will leave a lasting impression on guests. The “Forward” art exhibit, with its thought-provoking artworks, will be perfectly complemented by Chef Rocha’s innovative and flavorful dishes, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable event.
Source: The Manila Times
