As Shell National Students Art Competition (NSAC) nurtures and showcases the vibrant artistry of young Filipino artists, with a history spanning over five decades, it has become a part of the Philippines’ cultural fabric, celebrating and preserving the essence of Filipino arts.
Embracing an opportunity to be seen and heard, emerging artists find themselves propelled into the spotlight as their creative brilliance takes the center stage in Shell NSAC. This year, as Shell NSAC once again opens its doors to aspiring Filipino artists, its alumni, Aldrine Alarcon, Jonathan Joven, and Jigger Cruz look back at their journey and reflect how competitions like Shell NSAC have provided a platform for emerging artists in the country.
Alarcon’s involvement in Shell NSAC had a profound impact on his artistic perspective. The competition broadened his horizons, allowing him to appreciate art in all its forms and not limit his creativity to one discipline. His proud assertion that “Kapag Pinoy, ang trademark ay puno. There’s no negative space ‘pag pinoy ang artist,” (The trademark of Filipino artists is that it’s full in a sense that there’s no negative space) highlights the distinct style and depth of Philippine art.
The Shell NSAC played a key role in Joven’s artistic journey, fostering confidence and a healthy sense of competition within himself.
Joven’s advice to newbie artists is to remain authentic, continue creating, learn from mistakes, and not be afraid to explore new techniques. He underscores the importance of having mentors and drawing inspiration from one’s unique experiences, strengthening the individual creative identity.
Jigger Cruz’s dedication to the world of art started as a hobby, attending Ronald Ventura’s Sunday classes and participating in various competitions. His unique art style, marked by an emphasis on muscle memory and a disregard for structure and formula, is a testament to his journey of self-discovery.
Cruz’s interaction with previous NSAC artists fostered a sense of discipline and an appreciation for abstract impressionism in him. The knowledge and experiences shared among the artists have had a profound influence on his understanding and perception of art.
Cruz sees a quality evolution in Filipino art, as it becomes more globalized and less confined. Filipino artists are excelling abroad, with their works increasingly appreciated by Western critics. Cruz takes pride in the Baroque Filipino mix and match technique, which turns simple objects into art. He envisions a vibrant future for Filipino art, with more young artists engaging in various forms. To meet the competition and diverse audience, supporting local artists is crucial.
Cruz aims to contribute to the Philippine art scene by sharing his experiences abroad, supporting young artists, and purchasing their works. He offers mentorships and free studios to deserving artists, fostering a supportive environment for emerging talents. Cruz’s commitment to the growth and development of the local art scene extends to inviting foreign friends to Manila, allowing them to immerse themselves in the local culture.
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.
