Kulayan ang Kinabukasan: Art and Imagination for a Greener Future

The “Kulayan ang Kinabukasan” Art Exhibit and Kids’ Art Workshop were participated in by the Thriving Together with Tamaraw Consortium as part of the celebration of Tamaraw and Indigenous Peoples’ Month in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. The event aimed to highlight the connection between cultural identity and environmental sustainability through visual expression and community engagement.

The exhibit, aligning with the theme for the celebration of Tamaraw and Indigenous Peoples’ Month, “Tamaraw at Katutubo: Pamana at Likas na Yaman, Patuloy na Pangalagaan,” was formally opened on October 3, 2024, at the Danglayan Cultural Center, Aroma Beach. Remarks were delivered by CENR Officer Efren Delos Reyes of DENRSan Jose and Coordinator of the Tamaraw Conservation Program (TCP), followed by local officials who expressed support for the synergy between art and environmental advocacy.

A cultural intermission titled “Love Ko Tamaraw” was performed by LGU-Bayang Angat dancers, while further messages underscored the importance of conservation and cultural pride. Ms. Kathy Lene S. Cielo of the Mindoro Biodiversity Conservation Foundation, Inc. (MBCFI), shared the exhibit’s rationale, emphasizing how art can deepen public understanding of the link between culture and ecology. The participating artists were introduced by Mr. Eric G. Villamar of the Gintong Tamaraw Artists Association.

The event also served as the ceremonial launch of the Thriving Together with Tamaraw Consortium, led by Mr. Ronet Santos of D’ABOVILLE Foundation and Demo Farm, Inc. (DAF). Closing remarks were delivered by Ms. Ann Roxanne De Vera-Rodrigo of LGU San Jose, who thanked all partners and attendees for their collaborative spirit.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by Ms. Cielo of MBCFI and joined by officials from LGU San Jose, DAF, and TCP, marked the formal opening of the exhibit. On display were artworks by 15 Mindoreño artists, each reflecting Mindoro’s natural beauty and Indigenous heritage. The exhibit was supported by barangay officials, community members, and partner agencies, and ran until October 31, 2024.

Held on the same day, the Kids’ Art Workshop welcomed 30 children aged 6 to 13 from various schools in San Jose, along with their parents and guardians. The workshop highlighted the importance of environmental awareness through creativity.

Opening remarks was given by Ms. Cielo of MBCFI, emphasizing the role of early education in fostering care for nature. Mr. Ruben “Nonoy” Casuncad of Ligad Arts and Crafts led the hands-on session, teaching basic painting techniques and encouraging participants to reflect on nature through their art. His stories and creative guidance inspired children to explore their imagination while learning foundational art skills.

Closing remarks was delivered by Mr. Eric Villamar, who reminded the young artists of the role art plays in raising awareness and promoting conservation. The artworks produced by the children beautifully captured the essence of Mindoro’s biodiversity and demonstrated a budding commitment to environmental protection.

Through this event, the value of nurturing creativity and environmental stewardship among the youth was reinforced. The Thriving Together with Tamaraw Consortium remains committed to supporting efforts that blend conservation, culture, and community – ensuring that the message of protecting Mindoro’s heritage reaches and inspires the next generation.