Cebuano artists open "Iris mosaic" art exhibit

Iris Mosaic Art, a group of 10 artists and artisans based in Cebu, showcases their work to the public for the first time in a special art exhibit that runs from October 16 to October 22 at Ayala Center Cebu.

Over a hundred unique pieces featuring canvas paintings with iris mosaic inlays will be on display.

“Iris is the term we use for our own invention, if it can be called that,” explains Melvi Concepcion, the founder of Iris Mosaic Art who first used iris in her Cebu-based fashion jewelry export business.

"It is an iridescent cellophane that we combine with other materials like paper, plastic, fabric or aluminum. We apply different styles of crumpling, folding, stretching, shredding, etcetera. Then we use different colors. The possibilities are infinite. And the glitter effect is mesmerizing," Concepcion said.

The group breathes new life into appropriated art pieces using iris components to give it a glittering, 3D quality. Some of the artworks also use found objects and recyclables, making each piece a unique and portable showcase of Cebuano ingenuity, artistry, and craftsmanship.

Those interested to know more about Iris Mosaic Art and the exhibit, may visit the group's website at www.irismosaic. com or their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ irismosaic.