The Tubô Cebu Art Fair returned for its 8th edition last August 29 to 31, 2025, at Ayala Center Cebu, transforming the venue into a vibrant hub of heritage and collaboration by local artists throughout the region.
Following the theme of “Provenance,” the fair called attention to the importance of the roots that helped sustain contemporary Cebuano culture. The concept encouraged audiences to reflect not only on each artwork, but also on the past and their own personal narratives, painting a picture of Cebu’s evolving creative identity.
One of the highlights of Tubô Cebu Art 2025 was the exhibit featuring works from the late Martino Abellana. In line with the event’s theme, the exhibit paid tribute to Abellana, both through his teaching and living art, which helped pave the way for local arts to thrive in Cebu for many generations to come.
In an interview with Cebu Daily Inquirer, fair director Allen Arvin Tan emphasized the importance of honoring Abellana’s contributions, as many of this year’s featured artists trace their artistic lineage back to his mentorship. “This year, we chose to continue spotlighting Martino Abellana because he is acknowledged as the dean of Cebuano painters, and we should never forget his legacy,” shared Tan.
With its 8th edition, the fair also unveiled its much-awaited “Image of the Fair”—a collaborative piece by artists Jonathan Abellana, Khriss Bajade, Gabi Nazareno, and John Villoria. Their diverse approaches, spanning painting, printmaking, and mixed media, merged into a single narrative, symbolizing Tubô’s core of community and shared creativity.
Tubô Cebu Art Fair sets itself apart from other art exhibits as an artist-run, community-driven initiative, hoping not only to sell artworks, but mainly to gather groups of people for art appreciation and discussion. With no admission fees, it remains accessible to all, from seasoned collectors to casual art enthusiasts.
Closing after a three-day run, Tubô 2025 cemented Cebu’s place as both a cultural spectacle and a thriving storyteller of the Philippine art movement, celebrating not just art itself, but the communities that give it life.
To stay updated on the thriving art scene of Cebu, visit the Tubô Art website at www.tubocebu.art.