“WALKING WITH SYM” Art Exhibit: A Tribute to Filipino Artist Sofrono Ylanan Mendoza (SYM) Unveils in British Columbia

(Top right photo) Poster of “Walking with Sym” Art Exhibit by the Dimasalang III International Artist Group. (Top right photo) Philippine Consul General Arlene Magno delivers her remarks at the art exhibit launch held at the Anvil Centre Community Art Gallery on 05 April 2024. (Photos by Mr. Jun Cunanan and Diones Lago)

11 April 2024 – The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver, led by Consul General Arlene T. Magno, graced the launch of the art exhibit entitled, “Walking with Sym” by the Dimasalang III International Artist Group held on 5 April 2024 at the Anvil Centre Community Art Gallery in New Westminster.

The exhibit pays homage to the late Sofrono Ylanan Mendoza, better known by his initials SYM, and his profound influence on the Filipino-Canadian artistic community.  SYM, founding leader of the Dimasalang Artists, has been recognized in the art world with numerous awards and his artworks sold in art galleries both locally and in the Philippines.

Consul General Arlene Magno, in her remarks, recognized the legacy of SYM and commended the Dimasalang III International Artists Group, headed by Mr. Leo Cunanan, Jr., for raising awareness of Filipino arts and culture, further developing artistic talents, and fostering positive community engagement.

“Walking with SYM” showcases the artistic works of veteran and young artists who learned art techniques from SYM. More than 20 artists participated in this art exhibit, namely: Edgardo Lantin, Rod Pedralba, Mayo Landicho, Noel Trinidad, Bert Morelos, Francis Herradura, Leo Cunanan, Jr., Victor Villamera, Jr., Charlie Frenal, Sandie Gilis, Suzanna Lopez, Mary Ann Manuel, Norman Belen, Melani Payumo, Agnes Kindrachuck, Jess Hipolito, Anton Dizon, Daniel Lacosse, Leo Recilla, Andy Naval, Vincent Chan, Rolly Tuliao, Jacqueline and Juliana Loh.

The event was attended by BC C officials, representatives of the media, members of the Filipino community, and art enthusiasts. END

(Top left photo) Mr. Leo Cunanan poses beside his charcoal rendition of his daughter. (Top right) SYM’s “Mother & Child” painting on loan from SYM’s family for this exhibit. (Photos by Vancouver PCG)

MLA Mable Elmore presents a Certificate of Recognition to the Dimasalang III International Artist Group. (Photo by Diones Lago)

Artworks of various Dimasalang artists who are students of SYM. (Photos by Vancouver PCG)

(Left photo) L-R:  MLA Jennifer Whiteside Consul General Arlene Magno, artist Rod Pedralba, MLA Mable Elmore and MP Peter Julian at the art exhibit. (Photo by Diones Lago).