DUMAGUETE — The National Museum of the Philippines – Dumaguete has opened its doors to a new visual celebration of Negros Island's rich culture and history. The exhibition, titled "Katahum sa Negros" (Beauty of Negros), runs from August 17 to September 28, 2026, offering visitors a unique artistic journey through the island's soul.
A Celebration of Heritage Through Art
The exhibition is presented in collaboration with the Artventurers collective and Astras Art Gallery. It marks National History Month 2026, anchored on the theme "Hinubog ng Bayan, Dinuyan ng Alon" (Shaped by the People, Rocked by the Waves). The showcase brings together the works of nine talented Negrense artists.
These artists—including Al Reymond Gonzaga, Cedric Gaitera, and Willy Deguitos—offer original interpretations of Negros' landscapes, ancestral identity, and architectural history. Their works serve as contemporary lenses through which visitors can view the island's past. The exhibition transforms history into a living, breathing creative legacy.
A Historic Venue for Modern Art
The setting itself adds profound significance to the exhibition. Housed within the Old Presidencia Building on the City Hall grounds, the venue is a recognized Important Cultural Property. Designed in 1937 by neoclassical architect Juan M. Arellano, the building originally served as Dumaguete's municipal hall.
Following a ₱50 million restoration initiative, the structure was returned to its original architectural state. It officially opened as the 16th branch of the National Museum network on November 25, 2022. The juxtaposition of contemporary art within these historic walls creates a powerful dialogue between past and present.
Connecting Art to Permanent Galleries
A central feature of the exhibition is how naturally it connects with the museum's permanent collections. The contemporary artworks complement the existing galleries on Natural Heritage, Archaeological Roots, and the Built Environment. This integration allows visitors to experience a unified story of Negros Island.
For instance, artistic depictions of local flora and fauna correspond with exhibits on the island's geology and biodiversity. Reflections on ancestral memory draw parallels to the ancient jar-burial traditions of the region. Architectural paintings echo the colonial building traditions preserved in the museum's other galleries.
An Invitation to Explore
The exhibition is open to the public with free admission, making it accessible to all. It offers a meaningful cultural experience for both locals and tourists visiting Dumaguete. The museum operates Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the artworks up close and see how they tell a unified story of the island's culture and history. The exhibition serves as a reminder that history is not static but continuously reinterpreted through the eyes of each generation. It is a must-see for anyone seeking a deeper connection to Negros.
