Photo courtesy of Rico Aunzo
Four prolific artists from different towns in the Province of Rizal bonded with their love for the arts. Brando Limon Bati, Neptalie “Rico” Aunzo, Alder Llagas, and Daniel Dumaguit form the loose group called B.R.A.D., a moniker given to them by restauranteur and cultural advocate, Ric Gemora Hernandéz of Ricardo’s Coffee + Classic Cuisine. The acronym stands for the first letters of their names—B for Brando; R for Rico; A for Adler; and D for Daniel.
According to the group, it was during the group show organized by Daloy-Likha International Arts and Nature Society, Inc., in partnership with Ricardo’s, titled “Atikha: Labor of Love” that B.R.A.D. was born. The four of them were part of the show, which ran from May 1st to 16th, 2021.
In that show, the executives of the local clothing brand Obra ni Juan were present and had introduced B.R.A.D. to the management of ARTablado, an art space owned and managed by Robinsons Land. It was ARTablado who formally introduced the group to the general public through a 4-man show entitled “BANGON! Ikaw. Ako. Tayo”. The show, which aims to inspire people to get up, work together and reach for their dreams, had a successful run from October 16 to November 4, 2021.
But what’s noble with B.R.A.D. is its aims and vision.
The group said B.R.A.D. primarily focuses on promoting local tourism through arts and culture. And while it is only a “barkadahan,” or just a bunch of friends enjoying each other’s company and art – they are ready to accommodate more artists, starting and in their mid-career, and help them to achieve their dreams and aspirations as creatives.
Now, B.R.A.D. is brewing something interesting this February—another 4-man show now with the Art Asia Gallery in SM Megamall in Mandaluyong, entitled “Heart.” The show will run from February 8th up to the 22nd.
Noel Sales Barcelona
