Dimasalang Artists celebrate Philippine independence

Dimasalang artists will pay tribute to Philippine freedom in a featured art exhibit, called “Kalayaan” (Freedom), at the Surrey Arts Centre lobby. It will run from May 4 to July 4, 2015.
Dimasalang founder and leader Sofronio Ylanan Mendoza, better known by his initials SYM, will help showcase the Filipino-Canadian artists’ contemporary works of art. Formed in 1968 in Manila, The Dimasalang group’s name originated from Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal. He used Dimasalang as his pseudonym when the Philippines was under Spanish rule. Jose Rizal’s work and martyrdom called for freedom. 
In 1968, the original Dimasalang artists (Dimasalang I) included prestigious artists like SYM, Emilio Abe Cruz (co-founder), Ibarra dela Rosa, Andy Cristobal Cruz & Romulo Galicano. SYM mentored his Filipino students. When SYM moved to Canada in 1981, he continued sharing his art knowledge and expertise with others. He also formed the “Canadian Dimasalang Artists.” 
Dimasalang III International Artist Group offers arts educational and professional development opportunities to its members and the general public. 
Opening Reception is Thursday, June 4th 2015 at 6:00-8:00 PM
For more information, visit their website www.dimasalang.org