The Mighty Bhutens Exhibit: Mosaic art honoring Cordilleran culture

BAGUIO CITY — The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit brought to life the rich cultural landscapes of the Cordilleras, showcasing the region’s vibrant traditions through intricate mosaic artistry.

This extraordinary exhibit featured the works of three talented artists—Kabunyan de Guia, Guiller Lagac, and Oliver Olivete—collectively known as The Mighty Bhutens.

Inspired by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, their approach to art is spontaneous, playful, and deeply rooted in local heritage.

Ribbon Cutting
MOSAIC ART by THE MIGHTY BHUTENS. Artists Kabunyan De Guia, Guiller Lagac, and Oliver Olivete (center), known as The Mighty Bhutens, showcase their groundbreaking works at the exhibit launch on February 1, capturing the essence of Cordilleran culture through mixed media. SM representatives—Senior AVP of Operations Marc Janssen Pe (left), SM City Baguio Assistant Mall Manager Michael Jason Peña, and Regional Operations Manager Rona Vida Correa (right)—join them for a special photo op, celebrating the artists' contributions and the success of this inspiring exhibition. (Photos by Jill L. Galario, SM Supermalls)

One of the exhibit’s standout pieces is a dynamic lightning bolt, expertly crafted from brilliant yellow and blue tile fragments.

This work honors Baguio photographer and artist Kidlat de Guia, who passed away in Madrid, Spain.

Titled “Kidlat Ngayon!!!! Isang taon na paglalakbay as soul,” the installation transforms the lightning bolt into a shrine where visitors can light candles in memory of the artist.

The jester figure embodies the spirit of The Mighty Bhutens—playful, tongue-in-cheek, and whimsical—a quality that shines through in all their creations.

Facing the jester is a cloud and lightning sculpture, symbolizing Tatay Kidlat and his “inner dwende” philosophy, which forms a central pillar of The Mighty Bhutens’ creative ideology.

Another compelling work is a mixed-media mosaic portrait, blending textured paint on wood with fragments of patterned fabric and colored ceramic tiles.

The layered textures add depth and complexity, emphasizing both symbolism and the artists’ creative approach.

The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit was more than just a visual feast—it was an invitation to explore art beyond conventional boundaries.

The artists encourage viewers to interpret their works in their own way, making the exhibit an interactive and personal experience.

As the artists themselves put it, “Mosaic is about self-interpretation—the art exhibit is the experience itself.”

4
A shopper marvels at the intricate mosaic artworks at the Mighty Bhuten Art Exhibit

The exhibit ran until February 15, 2025, at the SM City Baguio Atrium.

It was a unique celebration of Cordilleran culture and creativity.

For updates on future events and Panagbenga celebration at SM City Baguio, visit SM City Baguio (official) on Facebook.  

Share

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *