Ato’ Bala’! Often considered as a colloquial Ilonggo phrase, these two Hiligaynon or Ilonggo words cannot be Googled. Separately scrutinized, ato’ means that or those or there, and bala’ does not mean a bullet, but could mean “you know.” Without any explicit or direct English or Filipino translation, ato’ bala’ is a phrase that could mean anything from the most mundane to the spectacular of thoughts, things, or ideas all mulled over and introspected. The commonality in all is that these are undoubtedly shared. What intrigues the most is the seeming vagueness of what is shared. The short words command to extract from shared memory, and directs one to recall. To witness the inherent dynamism of people and culture from one shared space and time, the Ato’ Bala’ exhibition draws out from Bacolod-based artists Aeson Baldevia, Brandon Braza, Guenivere Decena, Daryl Feril, Erika Mayo, and Megumi Miura what is of the past and poignantly remembered. In their individual interpretations, one finds that what is contemporary is obviously seen and what has changed is allowed to surface.

- Moreen Austria, Curator

As an artist, I am fascinated by the concept of ephemeral household objects and how they can become obsolete over time. In Filipino culture, many of these objects hold sentimental value and are deeply rooted in our daily lives. However, with the rapid advancement of technology and the changing needs of society, these once essential objects are slowly becoming irrelevant and forgotten. Through my art, I aim to shed light on this phenomenon and preserve the memory of these objects that are slowly disappearing from our daily lives. I believe that by highlighting their significance and showcasing them in a new light, we can revitalize their value and prevent them from fading into obscurity. My work explores the themes of memory, nostalgia, and the passage of time, and I hope to spark a sense of reflection and appreciation for these ephemeral household objects. Through my art, I aim to challenge the notion of what is considered disposable and raise awareness about the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations.- Aeson Baldevia