Empowering the nation through art at Shell NSAC’s Virtual Art Interact

As the country slowly eases into the new normal, artists have been finding new ways to reach their audiences and use art to influence society and instill values. Art serves as a vehicle for social change and a tool to empower people. Such was emphasized in the pieces of the young creative minds who participated in the 54^th Shell National Students Art Competition (NSAC).

The NSAC continues to give young artists a platform with the Virtual Art Interaction which is in its second year now. This year, Shell NSAC’s restART theme calls for creative youths to come together to visualize a brighter tomorrow for all Filipinos, using their work and skills. It signified that the nation’s future can be rebuilt and revitalized through art. This message resonated in the participants’ pieces that reignited expression, the hope of the people, and the restrengthening of the economy.

Launched by Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corporation 54 years ago, the NSAC annually convenes aspiring young artists, masters, and art enthusiasts to champion Filipino artistry and creativity. The event also provides students and rising artists an avenue where they can both showcase their works, as well as learn from masters how to succeed in this industry.

“Art has the power to change hearts and minds and communicate messages through a powerful display of sound, visuals, and all of these combined. Filipinos can use the power of their art to keep the Philippines moving forward,” said Conrad Parizal, the Social Performance Adviser for Downstream of Pilipinas Shell.

The event focused on Conceptual Art in which the artist makes use of the materials he has available to get their ideas across. This includes exploring alternative resources like charcoal, crayons, lipstick or other beauty items, used newspapers and magazines, and cardboard boxes.

Multimedia artist and art educator Emard Cañedo, whose works probe the current socio-political conditions through visual idioms, then held a one-hour workshop on ‘Still Life: Finding Life in Art in the Time of Crisis.’  He was joined in the panel discussion by 2007 NSAC Winner Gino Bueza.

“Joining NSAC makes me happy and helps me to be resourceful with the limited materials. Limited material is not a blockade to express the message you want to say – but it can build confidence,” said Bueza whose art specializes in the elements of collage, where fragmented images are merged into layered juxtapositions of color, pattern, and form.

Artists face the challenge of further developing their art and skills with limited resources in the current situation. With the workshop, students learned how to use different and ‘ordinary’ materials to enhance their art practice.

Leaders from the art world also gave their insights on and guidance to the students on how to be a successful artist.

“Support is really important in this field, like what Shell is doing: providing a future platform where artists can showcase their piece,” said comic book writer and illustrator Berlin Manalaysay.

In his closing message, Cañedo encouraged his younger colleagues, “Don’t be shy to explore ideas. What we need is to continue with progress.”

In the time of pandemic, artists continue to grow and strive with their art, keeping the nation’s hope alive.

Virtual Art Interaction: “Art and Advocacy” will be held on November 20. Those who want to reignite their creative passion and learn about art from masters of the craft can visit http://www.shell.com.ph/JuanArtNation.

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