It has been three years since Ricardo's Galeria Al Fresco showcased their first art exhibitors and became a go-to art hub in the South Cavite area.

Highly visible along the highway of Dagatan, Amadeo, Cavite, this classy restaurant with captivating bonsai plants surrounding the area was once a hidden gem. But today, it is where many art enthusiasts and businessmen frequent for lunch meetings, amazed by the spectacular displays of beautiful paintings and sculptures in different genre.
The owner, Ric Gemora Hernandez, an avid art collector, did not open the place for art exhibitions as a business or a money-making scheme; instead, he helped the struggling artists who asked him for help. They sought his support by buying their works. Thus, he decided to renovate the restaurant and made panels with excellent lighting perfect for art displays.
The impact of Ricardo's Galeria Al Fresco on the local community has been profound, providing a platform for struggling artists to showcase their talent and a unique dining experience for the patrons.
A former seminarian and exceptional life insurance agent, Hernandez — also known as Kuya Ric to many — has completely transformed the restaurant into a vibrant hub for art collectors and visual artists.
The atmosphere is full of life with 'haranistas' serenading customers during lunch, taking song requests and sometimes receiving tips for their performances.
Hernandez's Galleria Al Fresco has successfully hosted hundreds of group shows and solo exhibits, drawing artists from Mindanao and the Visayas and establishing its popularity within the arts community in a remarkably short time.
Moreover, Hernandez is developing a new area at the back of the restaurant called 'Bantayog ng Sining,' where he plans to showcase spectacular sculptures, further solidifying its status as a must-visit destination.
His kindness towards everyone is remarkable. Hernandez is soft-spoken yet approachable, making him easy to talk to. This has led artists and customers to become his friends and created a sense of camaraderie within the venue. He collaborated with established senior artists as advisors to stay current with the art scene. They held frequent meetings and produced excellent results. Together, they created a space for established artists and masters and an area for up-and-coming talented artists, providing a solid foundation for them.
One major project involved setting up a satellite exhibition area for the Manila Arts Fair. With an energetic staff, Hernandez successfully organized this big event with notable artists showcasing their best works in the most significant art event in the country. Visual artists from Cavite and nearby areas like Batangas and Las Piñas City were included in this event.
With his continuous development of the art venue, Hernandez envisions establishing an unmissable destination in the Calabarzon area. He has created a young yet high-tech social media team, a key element in his strategy to reach every age demographic and create more awareness about Ricardo's Galeria Alfresco, a space dedicated to promoting and celebrating the arts.
Finally, Hernandez plans to collaborate with his former insurance colleagues to reach a broader market through direct marketing with their clientele, expecting more solid art buyers.
Indeed, Hernandez's unwavering love for the arts and steadfast support for the artists have made him more energetic and enthusiastic.