Cesar Montano showcases new artworks

Cesar Montano (MNS photo)

Actor Cesar Montano who has been painting for 20 years now has unveiled 13 new works.

These are on display at Kamuning Bakery Cafe in Quezon City, one of which was bought by Regal Films founder Lily Y. Monteverde who calls him “a gifted artist.”

Prior, Montano held exhibits at the Glass Wing of Ayala Museum and in San Diego, California.

“Parang ’di ko kayang mabuhay kung ’di ako magpipinta,” he said. “Outlet ko yan, eh. Diyan ko pwede ipakita ’yung joy or sadness na napi-feel ko. I just put it on a canvass.”

Yet his busy schedule as actor keeps Cesar from painting more. He admits to paint only when there’s “free time na mahaba.”

Asked why he decided to showcase his latest works at the cafe, Cesar said, “This is not an ordinary bakery. Kung hindi ninyo naitatanong eh, lahat po ng presidentiables natin this coming election ay nakapunta na dito. Pati na rin ’yung ating mga vice presidentiables…”

Besides, owner Wilson Flores is a good friend who told Cesar the venue is always open to promoting arts and culture.

Some of Montano’s new works are titled “Sta. Ana Houses,” “Mango Vendor,” “Anxious Woman,” “Bible Study,” and “The Bar Sleeper.”

The actor once almost starred in a movie about painter Juan Luna. These days, he dreams of doing a film about the Boholano revolutionary Francisco Dagohoy.

“Alam kong darating ’yung time na magagawa ko na ’yung film. Kasi film ko ’yun para sa Bohol kasi katulad din ni Dagohoy tubong Bohol din ako,” he said.

Also on-going at Kamuning Bakery Cafe is the traditional Chinese watercolor painting exhibit by award-winning 12-year-old International School (IS) student Hannah Sun, which was opened April 16 by special guests actress/poet Karylle, San Miguel Corp. Vice-President Ariel Querubin and Montano. (MNS)