VIA GRAPHIC PLUS | Iloilo City, Philippines — In celebration of the Iloilo Arts Festival this October and in support of Iloilo Business Park’s recognition as the city’s Center of Arts and Culture, Richmonde Horel Iloilo recently launched Dumdumanon: Seeing Iloilo—Moments of a City, Seen and Remembered, a striking solo photography exhibition by multimedia artist Babak Niaraki.
Derived from the Hiligaynon word that means to remember or recollect, Dumdumanon showcases the essence of shared memories across the curated photographs. Being an Iranian artist who has found his home in Iloilo City, Niaraki uniquely and affectionately captures an outsider-turned-insider experience of life in the regions, covering familiar scenes from the colorful pageantry of the Dinagyang festival to the quiet, unscripted moments of local living.
Niaraki’s photos take spectators on an immersive and emotion-filled visual journey with images so vibrant one can feel the rhythm of the sadsad, the busy noise of the Central Market, and the refreshing breeze and tranquility of the coastal waters. But more than this, the collection invites them to appreciate the rich mosaic of people and places that define the very soul of this growing city.
Art Meets Enriching Experiences
For Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, hosting Dumdumanon serves a dual purpose: it honors Niaraki’s exceptional artistry while reinforcing its commitment to enriching guest experiences with authentic local culture.
“Just as Babak’s photos effortlessly bridge the gap between Iloilo’s high-energy celebrations and its quiet, soulful rhythms, Richmonde strives to elevate every facet of a guest’s stay—delivering memorable hospitality not only through grand gatherings, but also in serene retreats,” Lucille Pedroso, Richmonde’s Assistant Director of Sales shared. “So, we invite everyone to visit the hotel to reminisce and rediscover Iloilo anew through Babak’s lenses.”
Dumdumanon runs until November 6, 2026 at the hotel lobby. The large format prints on exhibit are also available for sale.
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