Pintor Kulapol opens Nature Encounter, celebrates Kochecha

February 20, 2024

**ART GALLERY:** Clockwise: artworks by Nuklar Alvarado, Christopher Fernandez and Tanya Cordero, Leo Carton, Burog Alvarado, Gerom Booc, Arvin Hervias, Nuklar Alvarado and Art Marin, Tilok Lamis, Gerom Booc.*

Pintor Kulapol, Sagay’s leading art group, opened Kochecha and Nature Encounter XI, a three-day exhibit for the love of art, music, and artistic celebrations, on February 15 to 17 at Bangga Nuklar in Old Sagay City.

Nuklar Alvarado, who spearheaded the activity, proudly displayed the talented undertakings of Sagaynon artists as well as other Negrense guests in the creative community. The event showcased multiple expressions of art, of camaraderie, and of music; as well as leading on to give thanks for the season of good harvest and positive undertakings with their Kochecha vibe for the year.

Kochecha, “Panahon Sang Maayong Pangwaon,” is how Sagaynon artists collaborate with each other to give thanks to a great harvest towards life and to create a bigger purpose of leading people to love and uplift their authenticity towards their creative endeavors, especially in music and the arts.

Every movement has always been offered in the inspiration of Maestro Nunelucio “Nune” Alvarado, one of the pillars of art in Negros, who started to pave ways and gave voice to Sagaynon artists worldwide.

Through him, art has been more courageous and more transparent in the lives of these people.

These artists fight for a positive impact toward the community using their influence. This is to show diversity, friendship, and enriching experiences that can lead to successful collaborations.

Pintor Kulapol artists consist of Nuklar Alvarado, Burog Alvarado, Lucio Alvarado, Bogie Alvarado, Art Marin, Sandy Coberos, Gerom Booc, Arvin Hervias, Christopher Fernandez, Leo Carton, Tanya Cordero, and the late Tilok Lamis.

Other guests included Tong Pao, Raz Laude (Antique), Red Santillan (Talisay City), Bacolodnon artists Mel Araneta, Mikiboy Pama, and John Dave Toreverde, and JR Ledesma, Tata Ledesma, Warren Cabahug, Joseph Cañete, Rusty Quaitchon of Hibalag Group of Artists (Cadiz City).

Musicians for the Kochecha included Iyok and Bagyo of Baliskad Band, Boy Chu, Joel Pastera, and Jerry Abener of Husky Band, Nuklar Alvarado and Arvin Hervias of Nuklar War and Duro the Explorer, Payat, Bryan Ferraro, Lyka Nazareno, Benhur Garing, Adrian Jay Tampoc, Rhey Dela Cruz, Kurt Barredo, Louise Barredo, Antonio Acak, Martin Miravalles of Mighty Hilamoon, and Ram Martinez.* (Kristine G. Alonso)