BACOLOD, PHILIPPINES — The first-ever Komiket Bacolod is just around the corner, and the vibrant world of comics, art, and merchandise is set to take center stage at SM City Bacolod from July 28 to 30. Among the array of talented creatives slated to participate, adobo Magazine handpicked five remarkable Ilonggo artists to look out for at Komiket Bacolod. Get ready to explore their unique creations and support local talent.
Daryl Feril
Daryl is a versatile multidisciplinary artist whose creative endeavors encompass illustration, design, painting, and video art. Over the past decade, he has curated a diverse portfolio, distinguished by his intricate and elaborate illustration style. In 2014, Daryl earned a silver metal at the prestigious adobo Design Awards. The following year, he took home a bronze.
By collaborating with renowned brands across various industries, including The Balvenie, The David Lynch Foundation, DFS Group, Heineken, Hilton, Johnnie Walker, Jo Malone London, Singapore Airlines, Tiger Beer, Tory Burch, and The Walt Disney Company, Daryl has left his artistic mark on the world’s biggest stages.
Daryl is not only a participating artist but also the brilliant mind behind the official poster for Komiket Bacolod. Known for his ambitious work and stunning illustrations, Daryl’s art seamlessly blends fantasy, nature, and vibrant colors. Make sure to check out his booth for exclusive prints, stickers, and limited edition items featuring his signature style.
Moi Moi
Moi Moi, a traditional comic and caricature artist, found inspiration in fairy tales and comic books during his childhood, leading him to start drawing at a young age. He filled numerous notebooks with captivating “cartoons” that came to life as you flipped the pages. At just 16, Moi Moi received his first paid gig when commissioned by NAJA books to illustrate school and coloring books.
In 2005, Moi Moi ventured into creating caricatures. Fast forward to 2022, when he drew his first slice-of-life art, #FindMoiAndTed, in homage to the late Larry Alcala. Surprisingly, this simplistic pen and ink style received overwhelming appreciation, engaging people in a playful “seek-and-find” game to locate him and his dog Teddy. The art’s nostalgic charm and relatability left viewers smiling.
With his work’s nostalgic charm and relatability, Moi Moi brings characters to life in a way that sparks the imagination. From intricately detailed postcards to playful stickers, Moi Moi’s table is a must-visit for Ilonggos seeking a touch of sentimentality.
Jenina Benitez
Prepare to be captivated by the artistry of Jenina Benitez. With a combination of traditional and digital techniques, her work revolves around pastel palettes and often features charming little girls, reflecting her inner child’s expressions and stories. Themes of wonder, hope, and growth breathe life into her creations.
Though she’s participated in various group exhibits alongside fellow artists over the years, Jenina’s career took a significant leap in 2018 with her first small solo exhibition, “Pieces of my Mind,” held at SM City Bacolod. Recently, she wowed art enthusiasts once again with another successful solo exhibit titled “PASSAGE,” hosted at Artfull Gallery. This exhibit masterfully weaved together a short story through a series of paintings, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Witness Jenina’s whimsical, nostalgic, and dreamlike style come to life in her booth, which will offer a variety of merchandise, including stickers, prints, mini postcards, enamel pins, and more.
Andie Gamboa
Andie is a children’s book illustrator, art teacher, and painter who draws inspiration from Filipino everyday life and childhood. Her body of work explores themes of girlhood and inner-child healing. Her paintings were recently exhibited along with other female artists through “Handurawan: Ilongga Illustrators for Filipino Children” at the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art. Some notable projects include illustrations for Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation’s “Ibalik Ang Wala Usik Toolkit” and the children’s book, “Ang Tinig-Ang ni Budang” by Katherine Santillan.
Make sure to visit Andie’s booth at Komiket Bacolod, which serves as a treasure trove of colorful illustrations and character designs, promising to brighten your day. Discover a delightful array of adorable stickers, charming bookmarks, unique tote bags, and captivating art prints in Andie’s merch.
Elwah Gonzales
Eloise, popularly known as Elwah, followed her passion for art and made the brave decision to pursue it full-time, despite her background in nursing. As a self-taught artist, she has presented her talents through three captivating solo exhibits and numerous group shows across Bacolod, Iloilo, Cebu, and Manila.
Elwah’s artistic expression delves into organic forms, pushing the boundaries of two-dimensional space interpretation. Her works often explore themes of introspection, growth, longing, and uncertainty through depictions of plants and people with remarkably elongated necks and the creative use of mirrors. Currently, she’s exploring a new style, moving away from her usual maximalist art. Just recently, she completed her art residency with Linangan Art Residency in Alfonso, Cavite, Philippines, offering her a vibrant artistic community to further develop her craft.
Catch Elwah at Komiket Bacolod, where you’ll find a range of her expressive art, including prints, postcards, and perhaps even handpainted tote bags.
