Appreciation for Filipino artists have grown by leaps and bounds and the Shell National Students Art Competition (Shell NSAC) has been instrumental in providing a platform and shining the spotlight on young artists in the country.
This year, the national competition celebrates 57 years with the inspiring theme “’Lika na, Likha pa ng Obra”. Shell NSAC celebrates the continuous journey towards progress, acknowledging past achievements while recognizing the ongoing pursuit of a brighter future.
Shell Pilipinas President and CEO Lorelie Quiambao-Osial articulated the significance of this year’s theme and venue since Shell Pilipinas opened its first-ever exhibit at the National Museum last February 26. Quiambao-Osial said, “This opportunity is not merely symbolic but deeply meaningful for all of us. These walls speak volumes. They resonate with the stories of our ancestors, showcasing the evolution of our Filipino arts and Filipino culture through centuries. It is a powerful validation of the contributions of our young artists, and to recognize that their art belongs to the tapestry of our national legacy.”
This year’s exhibit features artworks from Shell NSAC winners in the last four years. With the theme, “Onwards and Upwards: Revelations on Filipino Resilience and Excellence through Shell National Students Art Competition Artworks,” the exhibit showcases the dynamic evolution of the artworks from 2020 to 2023, reflecting the resilience, vision, and cultural richness of the Filipino youth.
From the hopefulness of 2020 that echoed through artworks amidst global uncertainty, to the vibrant self-assuredness of 2023’s Filipino brilliance, this exhibit traces a four-year journey of artistic evolution.
The exhibit is open to the public until August 25, 2024.
Recognizing Shell NSAC’s long list of renowned alumni artists, National Museum Director-General Jeremy Barns underscored that the museum’s goal, “to be a living expression of human ingenuity and imagination,” aligns with Shell NSAC’s commitment to serving as “a driving force of inspiration for emerging artists across the Philippines.”
Barns also acknowledged Shell Pilipinas’ legacy of honoring “the deep-rooted Filipino artistry that continues to shape our nation’s cultural landscape” through the yearly student art competition. He also encouraged student artists to “embrace the opportunity [of participating in NSAC] with confidence and openness.”
With categories spanning various artistic disciplines, including painting, sculpture, and digital art, Shell NSAC offers young artists a platform to express their creativity and celebrate Filipino culture.
“We encourage students from all corners of the Philippines to join us in this celebration of art and culture,” said Shell Pilipinas Vice President of Corporate Relations, Serge Bernal. “Shell NSAC is not just a competition; it’s a journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration. We look forward to seeing the diverse talents and stories that will emerge from this year’s entries.”
Entries for the 57th Shell National Students Art Competition are now open, with submission guidelines available on the official Shell Philippines website. The deadline for submissions is September 25, 2024, and winners will be announced at a special awards ceremony later this year.
