The 54th Shell National Student Arts Competition (NSAC) Virtual Art Interaction showed how the power of art can amplify the expression of advocacy, as well as how technology-enhanced art can break down boundaries.

The last two sessions of this series of online workshops, organized by the Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corporation, were anchored on the theme “restART”, which says that the future of the nation can be revitalized through creativity and know-how. do in the now myriad sub-disciplines that fall under the category of art.

The series further highlighted the need for young artists to continue to challenge their creative processes, while adapting to their contemporary environment. Workshop participants learned how to use modern technology to produce art, as the two disciplines evolve in tandem. Simultaneously, they recognized the zeal of Filipinos for their values ​​and beliefs, which when combined with art can inspire people to strive for a better future.

Art and technology

The first session highlighted how the challenges posed by lockdowns have led to exploring the uncharted territory of technology and its many innovative applications for art. Through the NSAC’s own virtual artistic interaction with live streams showing artists’ creative process, technology has opened up new ways for artists to distribute and display their works. It also proved the public’s palpable thirst for art despite the pandemic.

Anjo Bolarda, muralist, graphic designer and illustrator, directed “From the screen to the walls: a mural painting workshop”. “Without technology, I wouldn’t be able to interact and grow my fan base, which is crucial for the life and development of an artist,” Bolarda said.

NSAC alumnus Jophel Ybiosa shared the benefits that technology brings to art: “Previously my photos were displayed in private exhibitions, but now with social media they can be displayed for all to see. . What’s important to me is that people see my works.”

Art also serves a social purpose by communicating beliefs and advocacy such as strengthening local communities by passing on their stories using local resources. The combination of art and defense becomes a very personal synthesis of the artist’s passions and challenges. Art turns into a platform for ideas or movements that they sincerely believe in and champion.

Art and Advocacy

As Tokwa Penaflorida, a figurative artist specializing in the human form, said, “You can’t really separate art from other things, especially to help the economy. Everything we produce, whether it’s in engineering, media or even in brain things like science and math – it’s all always about the betterment of humanity. Art is always embodied. It’s just about being aware of the power it has in the different industries.

Three-time Shell NSAC winner Isko Andrade acknowledged, “Art is everywhere. Passion and art can express themselves.

As young people grow up to become the future leaders of society, the art and talents of their generation follow suit. Shell NSAC’s virtual art interaction has shown that this transformation can be enhanced by both technology and the artist’s own advocacy.