“Art for Cane” exhibit supports elderly with walking canes

CEBU CITY – Global Creators Festival with young Cebuano artists from the Art Gathering Exhibit Guild (GEG) in partnership with Simply Share Foundation, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).and Radisson Blu Cebu, launched “Art for Cane” exhibition at the hotel’s lower lobby from June 26 to July 31, 2026, aimed at empowering local emerging artists while providing mobility aid to vulnerable senior citizens.

Global Creators Festival founder Mary Jane Salomon said, the "Art for Cane" movement operates under the banner of creativity with accountability. The project transforms creative expression into a tool for restoring dignity to impoverished elderly individuals by funding the purchase of walking canes for senior citizens in remote communities.

The exhibition features an impressive collection of 400 artworks displayed in the lobby of Radisson Blu Cebu, to showcase primarily highlights pieces from young, authentic, emerging Cebuano artists, giving them vital exposure to both local patrons and international hotel guests.

In a poignant addition to the gallery, the exhibition also includes artworks created by Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs), brought to the venue through a partnership with the BJMP officials.

“This is a break for them, the young emerging artists who make up most of the exhibitors.  Our initiative is to provide a platform where our artists can be discovered — not only by guests, but by locals who frequent restaurants or attend meetings here.  This opportunity for exhibition is something we believe will leave a lasting impact,” stated Ann Olalo, General Manager of Radisson Blu Cebu.

“Art for Cane” began earlier this year with artists from as far as Baguio, Naga, Cavite, and Cebu donating works in Manila, proceeds go toward providing walking canes to indigent senior citizens in remote communities who have difficulty accessing mobility support, according to Salomon.

“In just three months, from a simple idea, the initiative has evolved into a growing movement. We are able to identify recipients for art for people. Today, thank you for being here. I appreciate that there are 400 artworks in this edition,” Salomon said.

Now expanding its reach to Cebu, the campaign serves as the grand finale to the hotel’s activities for the month of June under its Responsible Business Program.  The exhibition also aligns with June activities for women and youth, with the group partnering with a Global Theatre School Festival to further empower young, authentic artists, Salomon added.

The event also honored veteran muralist and senior artist Jeff Kuan, who was recognized for his continued dedication to mentoring the younger generation of creators in Cebu.

The Simply Share Foundation, led by Dr. Nicole Catalan, serves as the conduit for the collaboration, ensuring that the proceeds from the art sales are directly translated into walking canes and distributed to properly identified elderly beneficiaries.

The "Art for Cane" exhibition is currently open to the public in the lobby of Radisson Blu Cebu from June 26 to July 31.  Radisson invites art enthusiasts and tech-forward philanthropists alike to support the local creative economy while giving back to the community's elders. (Photos: MBCNewman)