THE JOURNEY OF A YOUNG ARTIST
FUELED TO CREATE:
December 2023 Issue
THIS IS OUR STORY
Art is an integral part of human expression and has been a means of communicating thoughts, emotions, and experiences for centuries. It has the power to inspire, provoke thought, and evoke emotions in people. In the modern world, students as artists are exploring their creative potential and sharing their journey and experiences with others through various platforms.
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Overflowing with excitement, the University of the East student artists effortlessly combined their roles as students and artists. They shared tips on being creative while standing up, uncovering a lively mix of inspiration that showed how academic stuff and art can work together to fuel their creativity.
Some found their creative groove in talking with people, while others liked peaceful places. Mixing shyness and outgoing, they realized nature and friends gave them lots of artistic energy. They also noticed that feeling good in their bodies helped make their artwork really interesting. Encouraging their friends to see how school and art can be buddies, these artists said it's cool to be yourself. In their journey together, they showed that being both students and artists is like dancing happily, revealing a big well of inspiration to fuel their creativity.
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With this, we see the passion of these artist students who are super dedicated to keeping their creativity alive. Let's follow their creative minds as they teach us some great lessons in life.
Photographed by Michelle Sanalila
Canon EOS 760D F5 _ 1/160s _ ISO200
FRANCE BACONGALLO
Written by Michelle Sanalila
Mr. Bacongallo is a 22-year-old aspiring fashion designer from Palawan, Puerto Princesa City. He is one of the 3rd-year student artists at the University of the East, majoring in visual communication.
He describes himself as an expressionist. “I am able to express my thoughts, feelings and emotions easily in my arts.” He said, weather, space, and ambiance can help him to make a good art.
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“Together with a combination of beautiful weather, naturally lit space, good ambiance, enough sleep, good food and a cup of coffee.” He added. "Expressions of my moods and emotions were easily transformed into meaning and exquisite art.”
Photographed by Michelle Sanalila
Canon EOS 760D F5 _ 1/160s _ ISO200
Photographed by Michelle Sanalila
Canon EOS 760D F5 _ 1/15s _ ISO800
He is staying in a dorm near his university. Being far from his family is hard, from physical to emotional, but because of his dedication to becoming a good artist, he manages to survive every single day as a student artist.
"I always go home to my city every time I have a chance; who knows?" he said.
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All of us need support, but what if no one wants to support you?
“It is hard to become a student artist, but thanks to my family, they give me the support I need.” Thanks to his family for supporting him through ups and downs. The support of family is more powerful; by doing this, you can give strength to those who are weak. You also give them love without saying it.
He shared this one word that fueled his creativity: "sleep," he said.
Photographed by Michelle Sanalila
Canon EOS 760D F5 _ 1/160s _ ISO200
Photographed by Michelle Sanalila
Canon EOS 760D F5 _ 1/125s _ ISO100
"When I have enough rest and sleep, I am able to do everything; enough rest and sleep to me means enough energy to make things beautiful, be artistic, and be creative," he explains, and it is true.
No one can work if you don't get enough sleep. He added, "More sleep gives stunning and vibrant outcomes to my arts. Sleep means I am able to focus with my uniqueness and creativity on my arts."
Who would have thought that this word is one of the keys to becoming more creative?
Mr. Bacongallo made a choice, as an artist and as a student. If you have a positive ambiance, positive thoughts, and family support, you can do it, whatever the circumstances. He worked hard to get to where he is now—no doubts, no questions.
Photographed by Jonafel Inoferio
ERIKA LAQUINDANUM
Written by Jonafel Inoferio
In a world where artistic expression often comes with a price tag, Ms. Erika’s journey stands as a testament to the power of determination and the pursuit of passion. Despite the financial constraints, Ms. Erika’s love for art eventually led her to embrace her talents and discover her true calling.
Ms. Erika’s early years were marked by a lack of resources that hindered her from fully exploring her artistic abilities. The high cost of art materials made her restrain herself from drawing.
“Back then, I didn’t like spending money for something I didn't need.” She said. However, Ms. Erika’s determination and love for art prevailed, proving that passion can flourish even in the face of adversity.
Photographed by Jonafel Inoferio
It was during her high school years that Ms. Erika stumbled upon calligraphy and typography, igniting a spark within her. These art forms allowed her to express herself and discover her love for fine arts.
As she ventured into college, she realized that her true calling lay in the world of fine arts. Enrolling in Visual Communication, she was exposed to a diverse range of artistic talents and witnessed the dedication of her peers. However, she found herself unsure of her own personal art style.
“I saw a lot of students who are passionate in doing their niche, which I haven't figured out yet.” She added.
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Photographed by Jonafel Inoferio
Despite this uncertainty, ms. Erika remained steadfast in her commitment to keep creating, knowing that it was through this process that she would eventually find her true passion.
Her story serves as a reminder that finding one’s niche or style in the art world is a journey that requires patience and exploration. Instead of being disheartened by her uncertainty, she embraced it as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Ms. Erika’s resilience and determination should inspire aspiring artists and individuals facing similar struggles.
Her journey exemplifies the importance of pursuing.
Photographed by France Bacongallo
JONAFEL INOFERIO
Written by France Bacongallo
Jonafel Nicole B. Inoferio, is a 22-year-old artist from Imus, Cavite. The world of art has always fascinated her since she was a child, and she has been fortunate enough to turn her passion into a career.
Passion is the driving force behind her artistic endeavors, driving her to inspire others through her artwork, streams, and cosplays, aiming to ignite the same passion in everyone who encounters her work.
“I’m a streamer, cosplayer and a student. When you think about it, managing my time for these three to work is hard, but because of passion, I was able to werk it.” She explained.
Photographed by France Bacongallo
As a streamer, she has the opportunity to share er art process and play games with a supportive community.
"It's incredible to see how my art and gaming can bring people together and create a sense of connection and inspiration." She added.
The feedback and encouragement she receive from her viewers only further ignite her passion and push her to explore new creative horizons.
Cosplaying is another aspect of her artistic journey that brings her immense joy. Stepping into the shoes of her favorite anime characters allows her to fully immerse herself in their world and showcase her appreciation for the art form.
Lastly, as a student artist, she is constantly seeking opportunities to learn and expand her knowledge about art. Every day is a chance for to explore new techniques, experiment with different mediums, and broaden her artistic skills. The learning process is a never-ending adventure, and she is always excited to discover new ways to bring her visions to life.
Photographed by France Bacongallo
“I remember when I learned drawing anime because of my cousin and I was so intrigued and sabi ko, I want to do that too!” She said. "I learned how to draw through my cousin Mae. She’s really creative and artistic and I guess it runs in our blood. And now, I specialize in drawing anime-like illustrations."
The vibrant colors, intricate details, and expressive characters of anime have always captivated , and she strives to capture that same essence in her artworks. From creating dynamic action scenes to portraying heartfelt emotions, she aims to evoke a sense of wonder and connection in those who view her work.
Being an artist is not just a hobby or a job for Ms. Jonafel - it's a way of life. The enthusiasm and passion she has for creating art fuels her every day, motivating her to push boundaries, inspire others, and continue evolving as an artist.
She is grateful for the opportunities she has been given.
Photographed by Erika Laquindanum
MICHELLE SANALILA
Written by Erika Laquindanum
The global pandemic was incredibly challenging for everyone especially for college students and when schools shut down and went to remote classes, many students chose to take time off — a gap year or even a gap semester — instead.
One of them is Michelle Ann Sanalila, A student-artist at University of the East Caloocan, 23 years of age and lives in Valenzuela City.
Photographed by Erika Laquindanum
She claimed that she missed a lot of great opportunities because of the global pandemic such as new knowledge and skills. Instead of graduating, she's still at the university studying.
She could've been working at this point but her parents are still supporting her college tuition fees. She discovered the true value of education and time. Nevertheless, she continues to learn despite these lost chances and setbacks. She is now driven to put in a lot of effort and continue learning.
Photographed by Erika Laquindanum
Michelle is a type of artist that gets discouraged easily, but she can definitely bounce back and strive to improve herself. Because of her positive outlook in life, she will continue despite the struggles and setbacks she may face in the future.
In relation to the future, Michelle believes that everyone has a bright future ahead of them. Present struggles are part of life, it doesn't mean you have to stay where you are.
You can live for tomorrow, for that precious future that waits for you.
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Michelle remained optimistic despite her life's many setbacks and delays. Rather, it gave her courage and the will to pursue her dreams with confidence.
It truly believes that every artist has outstanding thinking, it shows this belief through their smooth mix of school and art. Their thoughts on growing creativity reveal a colorful picture of inspiration, stressing the importance of being yourself.
Join us in following their creative journey, celebrating the unique spark in each of us, as the happy mix of being both students and artists reveals a rich source of inspiration.