Some events surprise you in the simplest way.
You go there expecting to just look around for a while, take photos, support local creatives, and maybe meet a few people. But by the end of the night, you realize you experienced something more meaningful than you originally expected.
That was how our evening felt during the opening night of DAFI Artfest 2026: Saudade, held last May 13 at La Herencia Davao Art & Events Pavilion along F. Torres Street, Davao City.
The event, organized by the Dabawenyo Artists Federation Incorporated (DAFI), brought together around 15 artist organizations and creative communities from different parts of Davao. The exhibit runs from May 13 to 16, 2026, and is open to the public for those who want to explore and support the local art scene.
As soon as we entered the venue, you could already feel the creative atmosphere inside the pavilion. The walls were filled with different kinds of artworks, from oil paintings to mixed media pieces, each one carrying its own unique style and personality. Some artworks felt bold and expressive, while others were soft, nostalgic, and open to interpretation.
One thing I personally appreciated was how diverse the exhibit felt.
Every corner had something different to offer, and every artist had their own way of telling stories through art. Some pieces were inspired by everyday objects and experiences, while others explored deeper emotions, memories, and social themes.
The theme for this year’s exhibit is Saudade, a word often associated with longing, memories, and emotions connected to something meaningful. And honestly, the theme matched the overall mood of the exhibit beautifully.
The opening ceremony itself was also nice to witness. During the ribbon-cutting event, indigenous performers shared cultural presentations that added more life and meaning to the evening. It was a reminder of how art and culture are deeply connected, especially in a city as creatively rich and diverse as Davao.
We also had the chance to meet several artists, bloggers, and members of the local creative community during the event. It was nice seeing people from different creative industries come together in one space to support local talent.
One of the highlights for many visitors that night was seeing the viral painting that was gifted to Vice President Sara Duterte. Seeing the artwork in person gives you a different appreciation for the details and textures that photos online sometimes cannot fully capture.
We also met DAFI President Lito Pepito, along with Ms. Dadai Joaquin, one of the well-known local artists involved in the exhibit. It was inspiring to see how much passion and effort the organizers and participating artists poured into making the event successful.
Another memorable part of the evening for us was reconnecting with Sir Rob, one of the officers of DAFI, whom we first met during the PhilBEX Davao event. It was nice seeing him again in a different creative setting, and he also introduced us to more artists and members of the local creative community during the exhibit.
During our conversation, we also talked about MuralTech and the possibility of collaborating with local artists in the future through mural printing services. The idea of helping artists reproduce their works through large-format wall printing, while still respecting their ownership and creative rights, honestly sounded exciting for us.
As someone building a creative business as well, it felt inspiring to see how technology and art can eventually work together to create more opportunities for local artists and creative spaces.
Aside from the artworks themselves, what I really enjoyed most was the overall energy of the event.
It did not feel intimidating or overly formal. The space felt welcoming, relaxed, and community-centered. People were genuinely interested in appreciating the artworks, meeting artists, and supporting local creativity.
There were also several familiar faces from the blogging and content creation community covering and supporting the event, which made the night feel even more connected and collaborative.
One thing I realized while walking around the exhibit was how much talent we truly have here in Davao. Sometimes, we become so used to seeing international art online that we forget there are incredibly talented local artists quietly creating beautiful works right here in our own city.
Events like DAFI Artfest help give these artists the space and recognition they deserve.
It also reminds people like us to slow down a little, appreciate creativity, and support local communities that continue to keep art alive.
If you are looking for something different to do this week, I honestly recommend visiting DAFI Artfest 2026 at La Herencia Davao. Whether you are an artist, art enthusiast, content creator, student, or simply someone curious about the local creative scene, there’s a good chance you’ll find something that inspires you there.
The exhibit runs until May 16, 2026, so there’s still time to visit, explore the artworks, meet local artists, and experience the creative energy of the Davao art community.
And who knows?
You might leave feeling inspired too.
Love lots,
Princess Joem 💜
