Young Strokes: Visual arts students showcase life through their paintings
Hatred---by Francis Fullon
Taho--By Genni Gem Vicencio
Iloilo is a haven of very talented young artists and this is evident during the opening of Panan-awan '07, an art exhibit held at SM City Iloilo recently. The artworks were made by the graduating students of the Iloilo National High School Special Program for the Arts who are taking up visual arts. Their works touched on diverse topics like nature, feelings, food, spirituality and culture.
Edward Defensor, a professional artist who was the event's guest speaker, said that the exhibit was the students' announcement to the world that they are God's special children. “You were given the gift to see, hear, feel and imagine what others cannot. You have the gift of making the ugly, beautiful and the beautiful, ugly.”
However, he discouraged them from becoming smug despite their rare talent. “In fact, challenges will be posed before you. This early, prepare yourself for obstacles and never give up. This is the only way you can experience the true meaning of life at its best. Not being able to realize your dream is like dying.”