Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod’s Art Cove mounts exhibit on mental health
Sheila Marie Basio’s works represent her battles with mental illness, self-empowerment, and choosing life over defeat.
Sheila Marie Basio with her artworks at the launching of her third solo exhibition at Art Cove.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF RADISSON BACOLOD
The importance of mental health regardless of age cannot be understated. As students are on vacation from school, they have fewer things to do. As such, they should have productive activities to keep them busy and constantly hone their minds to prevent them from getting bored. Licensed psychologist Heather Lyons points out that “prolonged stretches of boredom can lead to higher stress levels. Chronic boredom can increase your risk factors for mental health issues, leading to negative thinking patterns, impulsivity, and self-destructive behaviors.”
The Tales of the Psyche: Navigating Our Mental Odyssey is the newest exhibit at Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod’s art space, Art Cove. This eighth exhibit of the gallery features the works of Sheila Marie Basio, marking her third solo exhibition. She hails from the city of Escalante, Negros Occidental. She is a retired teacher, meditator, yogini, and an active mindfulness advocate. Her works represent her battles with mental illness, self-empowerment, and choosing life over defeat.
Art Association of Bacolod–Negros treasurer Patty Jane Ku Ong; Sheila Marie Basio; Orange Project co-owner and artist Charlie Co; local freelance screenwriter and film production designer Margaret “Kath” Baynosa; and writer and artist Chrysee Samillano.
“Art has always been a medium for expression, and through these works, I have attempted to capture the complexities, struggles, and triumphs associated with mental health. Each piece tells a story — sometimes of despair, sometimes of hope, but always of resilience,” said Basio.
Her artworks address mental health as a topic that touches everyone, whether directly or indirectly, and she hopes this exhibition sparks conversations, evokes empathy, and offers solace to those who might be struggling in silence.
“Here at Art Cove, we consider ourselves privileged to host such a profound and timely exhibit. In an age where the importance of mental health cannot be overstated, through Sheila’s art, we are encouraged to appreciate beauty and embrace the full range of our shared human experience,” said Archie Javellana, Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod’s Rooms Division manager.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony last 5 June was led by Basio, with guests Art Association of Bacolod–Negros treasurer Patty Jane Ku Ong, Victorias City councilor Joji Larraga, assisted by Javellana. The exhibit opening was also graced by Charlie Co, co-owner of Orange Project and a visual artist known for works with strong socio-realist themes.
Tales of the Psyche runs until 7 September. For inquiries and artwork purchases, guests may visit the hotel’s front desk or call +63 34 706 888.