Philanthropist and multi-faceted entrepreneur Mr. Saturnino G. Belen’s (SGB) initiative to compile and showcase the works of local artists came to fruition last June 15 through the publication and launch of Bintana, an art catalog of 149 Batangueno artists at Batangas Lakelands, Balete, Batangas.
SGB, a firm supporter of the arts and a publisher for more than forty years, says that Bintana is an effort to make the local art scene more lively. True enough, Bintana is a toast to outstanding creativity as it featured established and upcoming Batangueno artists on various platforms.
More than the catalog’s release, the event was a gathering of artists and art aficionados. “We want to enhance the network capital of our artist community,” he said in his welcoming remarks.
SGB also hinted at his plans to build a Fine Arts museum in Batangas and likened it to the Pinto Museum in Antipolo.
Josephine Adame of San Pascual, Batangas and Bintana contributor, said the book is an invaluable springboard for local artists to be discovered and that the book further solidifies the Batangueno identity.
“For young artists like myself, it’s a great opportunity to be part of this gathering,” said Krissy Roldan, teacher and visual artist from San Jose, Batangas.
Ugu Bigyan, a potter and contributing artist for Bintana, mentioned that Bintana furthers the Batangas art scene as it values the crafts and artistry of homegrown talents.
“Bintana: Batangas Art Through the Eyes of 149 Artists” is sold exclusively at FAITH Book Store in FAITH Colleges, Tanauan City, Batangas.