Expression wall in every brgy?

An art expression wall to patch up vandalism in Cebu City is now a step closer to being established after a proposed ordinance received an overwhelming support from various groups during a public hearing.

The proposed ordinance is authored by Councilor Rey Gealon entitled “An ordinance designating an art expression wall in each of the 80 barangays of the City of Cebu, and providing the guidelines thereof.”

Among its objectives is to create a platform for artistic individuals to express themselves and their ideas. Councilor Joel Garganera, who spoke on behalf of Gealon, said that the proposed ordinance aims to curb vandalism in Cebu City and to maintain the cleanliness of its surroundings.

In yesterday’s regular council session, the proposed measure underwent a public hearing where representatives from various sectors were invited to manifest their position papers.

The Cultural and Historical Affairs Office (CHAO) of Cebu City in a position paper read by the secretariat cited their agreement and support for the ordinance, adding that they hope that it would be implemented soon.

Pia Mercado, director of Cube Gallery, expressed support for the proposed ordinance. Tubo Art Fair Secretariat representative, Carl Vincent Rabor, also expressed his group’s support for the ordinance, adding that they are looking forward to the presence of art walls in the barangays of Cebu.

During the discussion, Vice Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia raised the question on how important it is for an artist to express its artistic thoughts in a major landscape specifically through a mural.

Rabor said, although it could be challenging, the proposed ordinance can provide a platform for the “experienced” Cebuano artists who are capable of handling mural making.

Going further into the discussion, Garganera also raised the concern on the possibility that the said expression wall would become an avenue for vandalism instead.

Distinguishing the difference between an art and vandalism, Rabor expressed his personal standpoint. According to him, vandalism often portrays negative messages in lieu of “gang signs” while the solid expression of art conveys “deeper meaning or a portrayal of perspective”.

“Sometimes, murals fall victims to politicians who vandalized the said artistry of putting their propaganda so we should include also that to the ordinance perhaps,” said Garganera.

Furthermore, the Liga ng mga Barangay (LNB) also submitted their position paper interposing no objection to the proposed ordinance. LnB president and Councilor Franklyn Ong raised the issue of maintenance. According to him, the life span of the murals is approximately three months and requires monetary responsibility to preserve it. He added, the barangay does not have budget appropriation for such.

“That is why I am asking kung kinsay mubayad ani, will it be the expense of the accredited artist na silay mugasto ana cause everytime you have to repaint again with another color to cover it up, to paint it again, so it is another areas nga among gibutang sa among position paper,” said Ong.

Councilor Joy Young also aired his concern related to the peace and order that the mural could affect. According to him, confusion may arise to determine the distinction of art expression and vandalism.

“Kay for you, ga hugaw-hugaw ko then para nako art man na. Kinsa ma’y mag buot ana, isuwat gyud na, Mr. Chairman…I am more concerned on that thing that we should discuss further,” said Young. -