Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, National Artist for visual arts Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera has been sharing pictures on social media of the sky captured from his special viewpoint in his farm and museum outside Baguio City. They become a captivating visual diary of days spent in quiet introspection.

The photographs are currently on view at the Sepia Gallery of the BenCab Museum until 28 January 2024.

“Watching the sky is most refreshing. The changing colors, the light and shadows are never the same. It is an encouragement to hope and continue to dream,” he mused.

BenCab’s camera is a window to the beauty of nature — the glow of the rising sun in the east every morning, the view to the West Philippine Sea at twilight with indigo, orange, pink hues reflected on the clouds, the unimpeded skyline perfect for full moon nights, and other celestial sights.

A friend, the gallery owner Remigio David, notes: “BenCab produces really amazing contrast with the mountain as backdrop and the trees against some intensely blue or grey skies. His compositions taken during the golden hour or blue hour are enchantingly magical, oftentimes exhibiting the skyscape’s fine detail.”

For the past few years, BenCab’s images have brought cheer to the artist’s followers around the world. His social media posts have brought hope to many people with daily doses of beauty and encouragement. With his eyes and camera, he has mastered a wonderful alchemy that turns the quotidian into magnificent treats.

The BenCab Museum is at Kilometer 6, Asin Road, Tuba, Benguet. It is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.