In his Art Space column, artist Ace Dumaquita writes about his sit-down with Talaandig artist and musician Waway Saway to recall on the strides made by their local artists’ collective, Bulak, last year.
I had the chance to sit down with Datu Salakup Rodelio “Waway” L. Saway, president of Bukidnon Local Artists Kulektib, Inc. (BuLAK), to talk about what the group has accomplished in 2024. In his own words, he shared the highlights, milestones, and goals of the group.
Starting the year with connections
“We started the year just like how we ended 2023—gathered as a group, sharing food, stories, and laughter. The Christmas party at Nasuli Spring Resort last December was a reminder of how far we’ve reached, and how strong we are as a group,” Waway said.
By February, BuLAK held its Executive Committee Meeting to plan for the year ahead. “We had to be clear with our direction. It wasn’t just about joining events. We wanted to make an impact, not just show up.”
This year, BuLAK joined several events that promoted Bukidnon’s art and culture, including the Banog-Banog Festival in Manolo Fortich and the Amul-Amul Exhibit at Robinsons Valencia in April.
“We always say our goal is to promote local artists. These festivals let us do that in the heart of the community,” he shared.
One project Waway was proud of was the Daro Art Immersion Program, done in partnership with Metrobank Foundation.
“We worked with farmers in the Hectares of Hope community. Artists and farmers may seem different, but both are rooted in the land. That was special.”
During the Kaamulan Festival, BuLAK presented the Pa Aha Art Exhibit, another successful event that brought in crowds and gave exposure to local artists.
Growing together through art
In May, BuLAK organized a plein-air painting activity at Enrique’s Ridge, followed by the Bukidnon Blooms Exhibit, and a Meet and Greet with Artists. “It’s important for artists to paint outdoors and connect with nature. But just as important is meeting the people who view our work.”
In July, the group took part in the Gakit Festival in Valencia, and by August, joined the SM Downtown Art Market in Cagayan de Oro. These events helped BuLAK members reach more people beyond Bukidnon.
The Bukidnon Provincial Culture and Arts Week in September was a big moment. “We gathered more than 200 artists at the Centennial Stage in Malaybalay. That’s where we pushed again for Bukidnon to be known as the World’s Soil Painting Capital. It’s a dream we’re still working on.”
National exposure and new learning
One of the biggest highlights was the IJuander TV feature in October. “It was a big thing. They featured soil painting and our work. It was nice to see people recognizing what we’ve been doing for years,” Waway said.
In the same month, BuLAK joined the 14th Tam-awan Art Festival in Baguio, and also supported Waway’s own exhibit in Davao. “These trips aren’t just about showing art. It’s about building relationships with artists from other regions.”
BuLAK also joined the Mindanao Art Fair, a key event for Mindanaoan creatives.
Workshops were also a big part of the year. The Kulit Kaalaman 2 workshop in Davao focused on sculpture, while another soil painting workshop with the Girl Scouts helped introduce art to younger minds. “We want to mentor young artists and help them grow,” he added.
Building art spaces
Another achievement was the ongoing exhibit at Del Rio Café, which ran from November to February. “It’s a small but meaningful space where people can relax and appreciate Bukidnon’s culture through art.”
BuLAK members also supported the Mayuntudug Gallery “Pahina” project in Lantapan, Bukidnon. “It’s still developing, but it’s a space for artists, and we’re happy to be part of it.”
Finally, the year ended with another celebration at Hernandez Resort, where members gathered again to celebrate a meaningful year. “It’s always good to end the year with the people who’ve been working with you all throughout.”
What’s Next? When asked about BuLAK’s plans, Waway said:
“We’ll keep pushing for Bukidnon to be known globally for soil painting. We also want to hold more workshops, mentor more artists, and join more art festivals—both local and international. We want to continue showing that Bukidnon art is strong, original, and alive.”
Looking back, Waway shared that everything they did in 2024 came from the love of community, culture, and creativity.
“We’ve come a long way. But we’re not done yet. We’ll keep going. Together.”
Art Space is artist Ace Dumaquita’s column for BukidnonNews.Net. Dumaquita works as resident artist and curator at the Bukidnon Studies Center of Bukidnon State University. He is also a member of the Bukidnon Local Artists Kulektib, Inc. (BuLAK).