The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit: A Celebration of Cordilleras Culture Through Mosaic Art

In Photo: (Upper Left Photo) UNTYING RIBBON. Artists Kabunyan De Guia, Gullier Lagac and Oliver Olivete (center) known as The Mighty Bhuten showcased their groundbreaking works at the exhibit launch on February 1, capturing the essence of the rich Cordilleran culture through mixed media. SM representatives Senior AVP of Operations Marc Janssen Pe (left), SM City Baguio Asst. Mall Manager Michael Jason Pena and Regional Operations Manager Rona Vida Correa (right) joined them for a special photo op, celebrating the artists’ contributions to the art scene and the success of this inspiring exhibition. Photo by: Mario Oclaman /FNS

BAGUIO CITY – (February 1, 2025) The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit brings to life the rich cultural landscapes of the Cordilleras showcasing the vibrant traditions of the region through intricate mosaic artistry.

This extraordinary exhibit features the works of three talented artists—Kabunyan de Guia, Guiller Lagac, and Oliver Olivete—collectively known as The Mighty Bhutens. Inspired by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, their approach to art is spontaneous, playful, and deeply rooted in local heritage.

In a welcoming remarks of Michael Jason Peña – Assistant Mall Manager, SM City Baguio

“It fills me with pride and excitement to stand before you all as we welcome each of you to “The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit”

We are honored to host their incredible collection of file mosaic artworks and more here, at SM City Baguio. What you are about to see are not merely artworks; they are stories and musings of a group that values joy and light-heartedness.

“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Guiller, Oliver, and Kabunyan of The Mighty Bhutens who made this incredible event a reality, Thank you for joining us,”

Also a message of support with Ms. Stella de Guia – Executive Director, Baguio Museum.

“Nasisiyahan akong ipakilala sa inyo sila ang matatawag na famous artist pero humble sila hindi nyo sila masyadong nakikita pero ang works nila ay nasa iba’t-ibang panig ng Pilipinas.

‘Let me introduce to you, Guiller Lagac, Oliver Olivete, at Kabunyan De Guia as you can see the Mighty Bhutens started in the year 2000 magkabarkada lang sila.

“The works of a Mighty Bhutens is a mosaic art which is capturing the images and patterns using different materials marami dito ay upcycle kinuha nila yun mga new style at ginawa nilang magandang trabaho, nag umpisa sila sa mga bahay-bahay lamang, nag umpisa sila sa General Lim ginawa nila yun site hanggang nagtuloy-tuloy na, now you can see their works in a PGC meron silang malaking trabaho sa Tagaytay, Mindoro, Tanay at sa Art Center nasa website at Instagram nasa QR codes para makita nyo ang lahat ng kanilang artworks, Maraming Salamat po sa inyong lahat,”

One of the exhibit’s standout pieces is a dynamic lightning bolt, expertly crafted from brilliant yellow and blue tile fragments. This work honors Baguio photographer and artist Kidlat de Guia, who passed away in Madrid, Spain. Titled “Kidlat Ngayon!!!! Isang taon na paglalakbay as soul,” the installation transforms the lightning bolt into a shrine where visitors can light candles in memory of the artist. The jester figure embodies the spirit of the Mighty Bhutens—playful, tongue-in-cheek, and whimsical—a quality that shines through in all their creations. Facing the jester is a cloud and lightning sculpture, symbolizing Tatay Kidlat and his “inner dwende” philosophy, which forms a central pillar of the Mighty Bhutens’ creative ideology.

Another compelling work is a mixed-media mosaic portrait that blends textured paint on wood with fragments of patterned fabric and colored ceramic tiles. The use of layered textures adds depth and complexity, highlighting their symbolism and the artists’ creative approach.

The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit is more than just a visual feast—it is an invitation to explore art beyond conventional boundaries. The artists encourage viewers to interpret their works in their own way, making the exhibit an interactive and personal experience. As the artists themselves put it, “Mosaic is about self-interpretation—the art exhibit is the experience itself.”

The exhibit runs until February 15, 2025 at SM City Baguio Atrium. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind celebration of Cordilleran culture and creativity! # Mario Oclaman //FNS