Young artists take the stage at the 57th NSAC

NEXTGEN

Shell NSAC stands as a symbol of Shell Pilipinas’ dedication to democratizing art and supporting the next generation of Filipino artists.

As times change and the arts evolve, Shell NSAC's commitment to nurturing young artists remains unwavering.

"Our mission for Shell NSAC (National Students Art Competition) remains resolute: to recognize young talent, nurture creativity, challenge the youth and students to push boundaries and collaborate in creating masterpieces. It is about preserving our rich cultural heritage and ensuring that it endures and it remains vibrant to young artists' artistic lens," Shell Pilipinas president and chief executive officer Lorelie Quiambao-Osial said.

On its 57th year, Shell NSAC carries the theme "Lika na, Likha pa ng Obra" in partnership with the National Museum to celebrate Filipino arts and culture.

"This opportunity is not merely symbolic but deeply meaningful for all of us. These walls speak volumes. They resonate with the stories of our ancestors, showcasing the evolution of our Filipino arts and Filipino culture through centuries. It is a powerful validation of the contributions of our young artists, and to recognize that their art belongs to the tapestry of our national legacy," Quiambao-Osial said.

This year's exhibit at the National Museum features artworks from Shell NSAC winners in the last four years. It showcases the dynamic evolution of the masterpieces from 2020 to 2023, reflecting the resilience, vision and cultural richness of Filipino youth.

Recognizing Shell NSAC's long list of renowned alumni artists, National Museum director general Jeremy Barns underscored the museum's goal: "to be a living expression of human ingenuity and imagination." It aligns with Shell NSAC's commitment to serving as "a driving force of inspiration for emerging artists across the Philippines."

He also acknowledged Shell Pilipinas' legacy of honoring "the deep-rooted Filipino artistry that continues to shape our nation's cultural landscape" through the yearly student art competition. He also encouraged student artists to "embrace the opportunity [of participating in NSAC] with confidence and openness."

NSAC has categories spanning various artistic disciplines, including painting, sculpture and digital art. Call for entries are now open. Submission guidelines are available on the official Shell Philippines website. Deadline is on 25 September. Winners will be announced at a special awards ceremony later this year.

"We encourage students from all corners of the Philippines to join us in this celebration of art and culture. Shell NSAC is not just a competition; it's a journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration. We look forward to seeing the diverse talents and stories that will emerge from this year's entries," Shell Pilipinas vice president of Corporate Relations Serge Bernal said.