Two decades ago, a single story planted the seed of a movement that would go on to inspire generations of young minds and ignite powerful conversations through art and literature. That story was The Man Who Planted Trees by Jean Giono — and it was the spark that led to the birth of the Center for Art, New Ventures and Sustainable Development (CANVAS).

Now, as CANVAS celebrates its 20th anniversary, it does so with the same heart and vision that have guided it since 2005: using books and art as tools to build literacy, inspire imagination, and explore what it means to be Filipino. From its first publication, Elias and His Trees, to over 50 titles since, the nonprofit has nurtured a vibrant ecosystem where stories and visuals work together to shape a better future.

For CANVAS founder and executive director Gigo Alampay, the mission remains clear: “We cling to the hope and possibility that somewhere down the line, one of the books we publish, one of the artworks we show, or one of the ideas we share will trigger the imagination of one child who will then be moved to change the world for the better.”

From page to stage — and beyond

Over the years, CANVAS has released a compelling range of titles that covers everything from children’s rights to climate change, friendship, democracy, grief and more. Some, like Hanapin Ang Sagot: Ano Ang Batas Militar?, Karapat Dapat and I Like Wearing Rainbows, have garnered awards and sparked critical conversations. Others, like Nadia and the Blue Stars and Silim, Prinsesa ng Dilim, have leapt off the page and onto the stage as full-fledged theatrical productions.

Helping bring these books to life are some of the country’s most respected names in literature and the arts — writers like Vim Nadera, Cyan Abad-Jugo and Butch Dalisay; visual artists such as BenCab, Elmer Borlongan, Joy Mallari, Leeroy New and members of Ang Ilustrador ng Kabataan (Ang INK). Their contributions have enriched the pages of CANVAS books and inspired a deeper appreciation for Filipino creativity.

A museum of memories and movements

To mark this milestone, CANVAS is opening CANVAS: 20 Years of Art and Stories, a year-long exhibition at the National Museum of Fine Arts, launching on 14 June. The exhibit — curated by Jaime Pacena II in collaboration with Alampay — offers more than just a retrospective. It is a living, breathing archive of the organization’s values and mission, told through powerful installations, vibrant artworks, and interactive experiences.

Each section of the exhibit aligns with the themes central to CANVAS’ advocacy: “Ode to a Young Reader” celebrates the magic of reading; “I Am the Change in Climate Change” tackles environmental awareness; “Safe Space” addresses digital safety for kids; and “Karapat Dapat” highlights children’s rights.

In the heart of the exhibit is Read. Imagine. Create, an interactive zone where children and families can read, rest, and engage in workshops ranging from storytelling and illustration to poetry, upcycling, and digital literacy. The goal is not only to entertain but to empower visitors — especially the young ones — to express their ideas and become agents of change.

For parents and educators, special talks will address complex topics like how to explain Martial Law to children and how to foster internet safety at home. These offerings underscore CANVAS’ commitment to intergenerational dialogue and education.

A home for stories: Tumba-Tumba Museum

Beyond the exhibit, CANVAS is also preparing for its most ambitious project yet — the Tumba-Tumba Children’s Museum of Philippine Art in Ibaan, Batangas. Situated on a 15,000-square-meter property, the museum is envisioned as a sanctuary for the imagination. Five permanent installations are already in place, including Elmer Borlongan and Lito Mondejar’s Tree Huggers, Leeroy New’s spaceship-inspired I Am the Explorer, and John Santos and Pam Yan Santos’ evocative piece Not A Mirage.

The museum also hosts the If Trees Could Talk International Art Biennale, first launched in 2024, with large-scale works like the 100-foot mural by artists Mr. S and BLIC already signaling the project’s bold artistic ambitions.

While still in development, Tumba-Tumba is a beacon of what CANVAS hopes to be: a lasting place where children can encounter art, literature and activism under one roof.

Planting one million seeds

Parallel to its exhibitions and museum work, CANVAS continues its One Million Books for One Million Filipino Children campaign. This initiative brings its stories to underserved communities through both print and digital distribution. The books — beautifully illustrated and rich in meaning — are available for free download, ensuring accessibility across economic lines.

CANVAS’ Art for Development program, meanwhile, brings visual storytelling into public spaces. From the Academic Oval at UP Diliman to bustling pedestrian zones, art banners bearing messages on culture, democracy, and the environment prompt passersby to stop, reflect and engage.

Looking forward, imagining more

The story of CANVAS is one of quiet but persistent revolution — one that believes in the transformative power of a well-told tale and a carefully rendered image. With the support of artists, educators, families and a growing community of believers, it is steadily shaping a future where every Filipino child has access to books, art, and the power to dream.

As Alampay puts it, “This is more than just a celebration of the past 20 years. It’s an invitation to imagine what the next 20 could look like — with children, creativity and compassion leading the way.”