By Allana S. Delgado

CPU Library Director Ma. Cynthia Peleña with librarians Donna May Rivera and Allana Delgado at the Nelfa Querubin Gallery in the UPV MACH (UPV OICA).

Central Philippine University turned over on Monday, May 8, 2023, fifteen selected pieces from the collection of ceramic artworks by renowned Ilongga artist Nelfa Querubin to the University of the Philippines Visayas Museum of Art and Cultural Heritage (UPV MACH). These artworks are on loan to the museum.

The artworks were originally donated to CPU in 2017. These were made by the artist from the 1990s onwards in the United States using electric and gas kilns. They are now on display in the “Gindáp-ung: Querubin’s Ceramic Art exhibition” in the Nelfa Querubin gallery.

CPU Library Director Ma. Cynthia Peleña represented CPU President Teodoro C. Robles in the opening event. “Both of our institutions [CPU and UPV] have been blessed with the generosity of Nelfa Querubin and it is only fitting that we pay it forward by making her work accessible to our students, fellow members of the academe, and the community we serve.”

UPV Chancellor Clement Camposano and Office of Initiatives in Culture and the Arts Director Martin Genodepa expressed their appreciation for CPU in allowing the loan of the artworks.

The opening ceremony was attended by Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas, Mrs. Rosalie Treñas, UPV Chancellor Clement Camposano, Prof. Dea Doromal, and Prof. Ed Defensor.

Querubin is one of the leading names in contemporary ceramic art. Her works are shown in exhibits and collections in the country and the world. She received the Cultural Center of the Philippines 13 Artists Award for her contribution to Philippine contemporary art in 1980.

The UPV MACH is a museum located on the UPV Iloilo City campus. The museum is open to the public from Mondays to Fridays, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM. Interested individuals may call 3379159 or message UPV OICA on Facebook for inquiries.

Nelfa Querubin’s artworks in CPU are housed in the Gallery located in the 4th floor of the Henry Luce III Library. Viewing of the artworks can be requested by classes and groups. Interested parties may contact the library via e-mail at library@cpu.edu.ph or call 321971 local 1011.