By: Women’s Fitness Asia
The first-ever all-female art competition in the Philippines, Sining Filipina, returns for its second iteration following the resounding success of its inaugural run. Organized by the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs, the competition continues to provide a powerful platform for Filipina artists to showcase their creativity, voice their narratives, and contribute to the country’s vibrant art scene.
In its first year, Sining Filipina received an overwhelming response, with over 700 submissions, proving the immense talent and passion of women in the Philippine art community. This year, the competition expands its reach and opens new opportunities, welcoming a broader spectrum of artistic expressions through mixed media. The theme, “Her Earth, Her Future,” calls on women artists to portray the pivotal role of women in sustainability, highlighting their influence in shaping a greener, more sustainable world.
Stella L. Cabalatungan, chairperson of the Sining Filipina committee, emphasizes the competition’s role in fostering emerging talent, stating, “This is an opportunity for them to show their talent, and we hope to discover new talent, great talents, future National Artists in this competition.”
Zonta Club of Makati and Environs President Joanne Zapanta-Andrada echoes this sentiment, underscoring the importance of self-expression through art. “Art is the expression of the human experience. By creating their pieces, they will be expressing themselves, and in doing so, empowering themselves to have a voice.”
By removing categories and opening submissions to all ages, Sining Filipina ensures that all women artists, regardless of background or experience level, have an equal chance to shine. Each participant may submit a painting measuring either 2×3 feet or 3×3 feet, using oil, acrylic, or mixed media, with the deadline set for February 13, 2025.
A Celebration of Filipina Artistry
All artworks from the 50 chosen finalists will be exhibited at SM Aura in Taguig City by the end of March 2025. The public will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the powerful visual narratives created by Filipina artists. In honor of Women’s Month, the exhibit will also travel to other key locations, including various SM Supermalls and Chinabank’s museum, ensuring wider visibility for these masterpieces.
“It’s a great venue to promote art,” says Grace Magno, SM Supermalls’ Vice President for Corporate Marketing. “With about five million people passing through our doors daily, many of them artists, this exhibit will inspire and elevate the voices of Filipina creatives.”
Beyond recognition and exposure, the competition awards 10 winners with cash prizes totaling PHP 500,000, further supporting women in their artistic pursuits.
Looking Ahead: A Future Beyond Borders
The impact of Sining Filipina extends beyond national recognition. As the competition grows, there is a vision to include Filipina artists from the global diaspora. “Due to transportation constraints, we are currently limited to artists within the country, but we hope to expand in the future,” organizers share.
Aspiring participants can register by emailing [email protected] to receive the official entry form.
With its second run, Sining Filipina continues to break barriers, ensuring that Filipina artists—regardless of age, background, or medium—have a space to be seen, heard, and celebrated. As the competition paves the way for the next generation of great Filipina artists, it stands as a testament to the power of art in shaping culture, identity, and the future.
