REY BOLLOZOS, BANJO SATORRE JR., ROMEO DUMUK III, AND JANE RAMOS: THE FORD COLLECTIVE

The Ford Academy of the Arts has produced a number of talented artists. Some have ventured abroad to explore more artistic possibilities; while others remain in Davao, continually developing the city’s art spirit. And then there are those who are giving back, and are mentoring a new generation of artists.

Venerando Rey G. Bollozos is a Cebuano who has made Davao City his home for many years. He currently teaches art to junior high and senior high school students at the Ford Academy of the Arts. He is also an instructor of Atelier Peniel Fine Art, a workshop that teaches classical drawing and painting methods. Also a practicing visual artist, Rey has had several one-man and group exhibits in Davao, Manila, and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam.

Desiderio Satorre, Jr., who is better known as Banjo, is another Ford Academy graduate who has chosen to give back as an art instructor at his alma mater. He is an artist of many talents, exploring various media for his works — oil and canvas for his paintings, wood and cement for his sculptures. This allows him to produce compelling pieces that provoke thought and cause appreciation for local culture. Landscapes, masks and historic icons come to life in his hands as art that is forward-looking yet rooted in Davao’s heritage.

Romeo Dumuk III has found his inspiration in computer graphic surrealism and social realism. His work tackles social issues in politics, the environment, geography and spirituality. Romeo has also found meaning in teaching art, first at the Ford Academy of the Arts, where he graduated from its fine arts program in 2005. He is currently an Art Professor at the University of Mindanao and Philippine Women’s College.

Jane Ramos develops her craft through learning and teaching art at the Ford Academy. She also believes that art is healing, and works with kids using art for therapy. Jane has also participated in exhibitions that highlight art as a medium for healing, especially after disasters.

ASEAN Art Award finalist “Tri-People,” mixed media (2001) by Banjo Satorre, Jr.

Jane Ramos with her portrait of Victorio Edades

“Transference,” linocut and mixed media (2015) by Rey Bollozos

“Deteriorating Colonial Power,” mixed media (2004) by Romeo Dumuk III

Venerando Rey Bollozos with his work, “You Have Never Been to That Side of Your Soul,” oil on canvas (2018)

Desiderio “Banjo” Satorre, Jr.

Romeo Dumuk III

“T’boli Woman,” acrylic on T’nalak (2018) by Jane Ramos