Daily TribuneProceeds from sales of the artworks will contribute to funding scholarships, to support 50 scholars by September 2025 — a fitting tribute to the batch’s 50th anniversary.
Nancy Chichioco-Razon
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF CARL MADAGIA
A vibrant display of artistic passion, nostalgia, and generosity unfolded at the Expressions Art Exhibit, an extraordinary showcase of talent by the Maryknoll College High School Class of 1975. The exhibit ran from 1 to 7 February at the Henry Sy, Sr. Innovation Center, Miriam College.
Stepping into the gallery, visitors were greeted with a profusion of colors, stories woven into brushstrokes, and emotions captured through various media — from acrylic paintings to digital photographs. Organized in partnership with Drybrush Gallery, the exhibit not only celebrated the golden jubilee of MCHS 1975 but also served as a beacon of hope for the scholars of the Miriam College Skills Development and Technical Education Center.
Proceeds from sales of the artworks will contribute to funding scholarships, to support 50 scholars by September 2025 — a fitting tribute to the batch’s 50th anniversary.
Ambassador Laura Quiambao-Del Rosario, President of Miriam College expressed admiration for the initiative. Also present was Imelda Cajipe-Endaya, the batch’s beloved art teacher, whose guidance and inspiration have left an indelible mark on these artists.
The event was nothing short of a joyous reunion — filled with laughter, reminiscing and heartfelt camaraderie. The participating artists, including Celine Celi-Enriquez, Celine Ongpin-Menes, Doyo Lapuos-Varela, Annabelle Rola-Carlos, Gee V. Farrales, Nancy Chichioco-Razon, Chona Sarmenta-Quizon, and Maricor Alvarez-Acenas, proudly presented their masterpieces, each artwork a unique reflection of their journey, memories, and creative spirit.
Gia Alvarez-Binamira, head of the art exhibit committee, shared the inspiration behind the exhibit’s title: “We named it Expressions because we want to show how each artist expresses herself through art.”
What began as a simple realization — that their batch had seven gifted artists — evolved into a full-fledged exhibit, thanks to a partnership with Drybrush Gallery. “We just so happened to have a friend who owns Drybrush Gallery, and they offered to help us set this whole event up,” Binamira recounted.
Beyond artistic expression, the exhibit is deeply rooted in purpose and generosity. “Whatever proceeds we get from the sale of these artworks, we will donate to SDTEC to fulfill our goal of putting 50 scholars through school by September,” she added. This “50 at 50” initiative is a testament to the batch’s unwavering commitment to paying it forward.
For Doyo Lapuos-Varela, one of the exhibiting artists, the exhibit represented not only creativity but also real-world impact. “Some of our scholars have undergone automotive classes and are now employed by Petron,” she shared.
Their batch’s journey of giving back started during the pandemic. “We were supposed to celebrate our 45th anniversary, but since we couldn’t, we decided to donate the money we had gathered instead,” Doyo recounted.
More than just an art exhibit, Expressions is a call to action — a chance to appreciate, celebrate, and contribute. Visitors were not only invited to immerse themselves in the beauty of the artworks but also to be part of a greater cause.
In a world where creativity and kindness intersect, Expressions Art Exhibit is proof that art does more than decorate walls — it transforms lives. Don’t miss the chance to witness art in its most meaningful form.
