“Kilometer Zero” brings together a diverse group of Filipino artists—Jonas Arlegui, Marius Black, Paulu Bruselas, Rommel Cahilo, PJ Muncada, Wika Nadera, skieskyler, and Millet Yraola-Yulo—to explore various perspectives on urban life. The exhibition, running from October 12 to 31, 2024, at Artists’ Lane, examines the complexities of city living, with each artist presenting their own interpretation of architecture, inhabitants, and daily experiences. Their collective work captures the vibrant, multifaceted nature of urban environments through various media, ranging from painting and illustration to architecture and mixed media.

Jonas Arlegui, known for his monochromatic depictions of life’s everyday challenges, emphasizes the delicate balance between comfort and personal growth in his work “Everyone Wants to Go Out.” Marius Black, a comic book artist and the founder of Kuro Saku, provides a vignette of city life with “Junkyard Spoliarium,” where he presents a modern interpretation of Juan Luna’s classic image. Rommel Cahilo, an architect by profession, contributes nostalgic illustrations of urban architecture, such as “Sari-Sari Apartment,” blending reality and imagination to showcase his neighborhood’s unique character. Meanwhile, Paulu Bruselas and PJ Muncada focus on the small moments and tensions of navigating fast-paced urban environments.

Wika Nadera and skieskyler delve into cultural narratives and community resilience. Nadera’s multidisciplinary work spans illustration, photography, and installation art, reflecting on personal and shared spaces within Philippine society. Skieskyler, whose art centers on the symbolic “Tindahan” concept, highlights the strength and unity within Filipino communities through expressive brushstrokes. Millet Yraola-Yulo, a seasoned architect and graphic designer, rounds out the group with her work that bridges urban design and artistic expression, emphasizing both individual and communal spaces.