Jerraine Ruth, affectionately known as Ruth among her fellow artists in Kurit-Lagting and CAP Bicol, is not just a storyteller; she is a weaver of narratives, wielding the transformative power of words to honor cultural heritage, question societal conventions, and spark the flames of positive transformation. While the daylight hours find her diligently fulfilling the role of an Administrative Assistant, the night unveils a different facet of her identity—an artist committed to the literary craft. Ruth's artistic journey had its earliest roots in the rhythmic cadence of dance during her childhood. As she grew, her artistic ventures expanded, but it was during the pandemic that her focus shifted to writing. The literary arts became a sanctuary for releasing bottled emotions and expressing thoughts, providing solace during moments of introversion. Literary Activism and Learning Through Engagement Engaging in forums, symposiums, and talks on socio-political and environmental issues, Ruth extends her literary reach to wider audiences. Participating in these platforms allows her not only to share her causes but also serves as a vital avenue for learning from diverse perspectives, especially regarding women's rights and protection. Despite societal disregard for literary arts and reading, she finds solace in the community of cultural workers and fellow artists striving to make art accessible to all. Acknowledging the prevalence of the "starving artist" stereotype, she sees the potential for art to be a relevant and powerful medium, especially when leveraged through technology to elevate platforms. Reflecting on her most impactful community art project, Ruth recounts the Poem For A Cause PH 2021. Collaborating with fellow Filipino writers and poets, the project aimed to bring hope to Typhoon Odette victims in Siargao. This fundraising activity served as a realization for her, proving that hope matters, and through art, one can instigate a movement and initiate change. Connecting Through Art: Overcoming Introversion Acknowledging her introverted nature, Ruth confesses that warming up to people requires effort on her part. However, the magic of art lies in its ability to connect and build rapport. Through a stroke of conversation, art has the unseen power to foster respect, friendship, and deepen relationships in unique ways. Ruth candidly addresses the challenges of being a budding artist, notably the lack of support and societal marginalization. Breaking free from the "starving artist" stereotype becomes a personal mission. She emphasizes the commercialization of art as an additional challenge, urging the sector to guard against compromising its essence. With a distinctive storytelling style, she effortlessly balances between writing cryptically and directly. Her two signature styles reflect her ability to own her masterpiece, making it an extension of herself. Her art becomes a bridge between personal expression and collaborative, community-driven projects. Preserving Heritage Through Words As Ruth weaves her literary tapestry, every piece becomes a celebration of Filipino heritage. Through her words, she pays homage to literary icons like Francisco Balagtas and the La Solidaridad movement, defying social norms and making a difference. To aspiring artists, Ruth offers a resounding "Padayon! Keep on going." She emphasizes sustainability, encouraging artists to find ways to enjoy their craft, put their best foot forward, and defy the stigma of the "starving artist." Envisioning the Future Looking ahead, Ruth hopes her artistic drive remains steadfast, leaving a lasting imprint on the world of art. Community art will always be a vital part of her life, and she anticipates contributing meaningfully and giving back to the artistic journey she eagerly embraces. In Ruth's world, words are not merely letters on a page; they are vessels of hope, catalysts for change, and a testament to the enduring power of community art. Visit her instagram page here: www.instagram.com/walangtinta # # #
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Resmundo Demdam or ResD, a professional graphic designer hailing from Kurit-Lagting, has emerged as a beacon of inspiration in the realm of community art. His journey as an artist began in his formative years, where he discovered the transformative power of creative expression. From drawing to painting, ResD found solace in crafting beauty from a blank canvas, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion. "Art has the power to bring people together, to inspire change, and to heal wounds," ResD shares, explaining the driving force behind his venture into community art. The desire to make a positive impact on society led him to channel his skills and creativity into collaborative projects that transcend the boundaries of conventional artistic endeavors. Connecting through Colors: Meaningful Experiences in Community Art ResD's involvement in community art projects has been a collection of meaningful learning experiences. Collaborating with individuals from diverse backgrounds has not only broadened his artistic perspective but has also posed creative challenges. These projects have become a canvas for witnessing the transformative power of art in advocating for social change, emphasizing the importance of art as a tool for communication, empathy, and empowerment within communities. "The connections formed and stories shared during these endeavors have deeply influenced my artistic practice," ResD reflects, underscoring the profound impact community engagement has had on shaping his artistic identity. Art as a Catalyst for Change ResD sees his art as a powerful instrument for addressing societal issues. His portfolio, showcased on his website, reflects a commitment to tackling themes like inequality, environmental degradation, and social justice. Through his creative endeavors, ResD strives to contribute to positive change, using his skills to amplify important messages that resonate within his community. The Kuriton Series: A Unifying Artistic Endeavor Among the myriad community art projects, the Kuriton Series in 2013, stands out as particularly special to ResD. This project seamlessly blended art with community engagement, showcasing diverse talents within the community. The Kuriton Series left an indelible mark, emphasizing that art indeed has the power to unite, especially among the youth. Collaboration lies at the heart of community art, and ResD emphasizes the importance of embracing cultural diversity in the artistic process. By incorporating diverse perspectives, community art becomes a potent tool for social change and inclusivity. For budding artists venturing into community art, ResD sees both challenges and rewards. While it requires personal growth and resilience, the experience provides an opportunity to be a catalyst for change within communities. Maintaining a balance between personal artistic expression and collaboration is a delicate dance, according to ResD. Engaging with the community allows for inspiration and valuable insights, while personal expression adds a unique touch to collective efforts. Preserving Heritage through Art ResD's artworks serve as a visual documentation of diverse cultures and their traditions, ensuring their preservation for future generations. Through his creations, he aims to educate and raise awareness about the richness and importance of cultural heritage. To aspiring artists interested in community art, ResD offers valuable advice: build strong relationships with the communities you wish to serve. Understanding their needs and desires is essential for creating impactful and meaningful artwork. Collaborative Painting Sessions Looking ahead, ResD is excited about upcoming collaborative painting sessions with his co-Kurit members. He encourages readers to stay tuned for updates on these exciting ventures. As ResD envisions the future of his career, community art remains an integral part of his artistic journey. Fostering inclusivity, social change, and personal growth, he aims to create art that inspires positive transformations within society. In the brushstrokes of ResD, we witness not just the creation of art but the cultivation of a community-driven movement, where creativity becomes a catalyst for change, unity, and celebration of diverse cultures. In the heart of Sorsogon, where vibrant cultures converge and diverse voices harmonize, 32-year-old Judy Azul has emerged as a beacon of artistic expression within the community. As a proud member of Kurit-Lagting Art Collective, a passionate advocate for CAP-Bicol, and a creative force behind Rhymes of PEG, Judy's journey as an artist has become synonymous with bringing people together through the power of art. Judy's artistic odyssey began in childhood, where a latent passion for the arts simmered beneath the surface, waiting for the right moment to blossom. In 2018, that moment arrived when she started penning verses that delved into various facets of life, drawing from her personal experiences. Through her written words, Judy sought to convey to readers that they were not alone in their struggles. "Simula bata pa lang, nakahiligan ko na ang arts, ngunit hindi ko ito pinagtuunan ng pansin na mas seryoso. Taong 2018, nagsimula akong magsulat ng mga tula na tumatalakay sa iba't ibang aspeto ng buhay base sa aking mga karanasan. Sa pamamagitan ng aking mga sinusulat, naipababatid ko sa mga mambabasa na hindi sila nagiisa sa kanilang pinagdaraanan," shares Judy. One of the pinnacle moments in Judy's community art involvement was her participation in the Scott Kelby Worldwide Photowalk 2023 in Sorsogon. Through this experience, she gained a deeper understanding of the realities faced by the province and recognized the urgent need for solutions often overlooked by authorities. This event marked a turning point, solidifying her belief in the power of community art to reflect a city's true progress. "May mga sitwasyong dapat na solusyonan na hindi pinagtutuunan ng pansin ng ating gobyerno. Sa tunay na kalagayan ng komunidad, masasalamin ang tunay na kaunlaran ng isang bayan," reflects Judy. For Judy, art serves as a conduit for raising awareness within the community. Through her writing, she believes in not only presenting flowery words but also revealing hidden truths that society often overlooks. "Sa pamamagitan ng pagsulat, naniniwala ako na isa kami sa maaaring makapagbigay kamulatan sa mga mamamayan. Sapagkat, hindi lang mabulaklak na salita ang aming sinusulat kundi pati na ang mga nakikita naming katotohanan na pilit itinatago ng karamihan," she emphasizes. One of the community art projects that left an indelible mark on Judy was the initiative for Save Gubat Bay. Though she wasn't directly involved, she stood in solidarity with those fighting for the rights of the Cota Na Daco fishermen through poetry. It wasn't just a livelihood at stake but also their right to live the way they know. "Ang ginanap na programa para sa Save Gubat Bay, hindi man kami naging personal na bahagi, ngunit kasama kami sa mga pakikipaglaban para sa mga mangingisda ng Cota Na Daco. Hindi lang hanap-buhay ang pilit na inaagaw sa kanila pati na rin ang karapatang mamuhay sa paraang alam nila," recalls Judy. Navigating the diverse landscape of community art requires a delicate approach to collaboration. Judy believes in open-mindedness and friendliness when engaging with different groups and individuals. "Ang pakikilahok sa iba't ibang miyembro ng komunidad ay nangangailangan ng malawak na pang-unawa at pakikinig sa bawat ideya upang maging matagumpay ang isang proyekto. Ang pagkakaroon ng bukas na kaisipan at pagiging palakaibigan sa mga bagong kakilala," she shares. Being a budding artist in community art comes with its challenges, but the rewards are equally profound. Judy acknowledges the struggle of self-introduction, especially when confidence wavers. However, a robust support system, like the one provided by her organizations, bolsters her self-assurance. "Ang hamon para sa isang bagong artist ay kung paano ipakilala ang sarili lalo na't hindi naman lahat ay confident sa kung ano ang narating. Pero ang kagandahan kapag malakas ang support system na nagmumula sa organization, sa pamamagitan nito nadadagdagan ang aming tiwala sa sarili," she affirms. Balancing personal artistic expression with collaborative and community-driven work is a tightrope walk that Judy navigates with care. She tempers her emotions to understand the broader goals of each project. "Isinasaalang-alang ko kung may maapektuhan ba ang pamamaraan ko o makakaapekto ba ang sinusulat ko sa komunidad. Isinasantabi ko muna ang aking personal na emosyon upang mas maintindihan ang iba pang layunin," explains Judy. As a writer, Judy sees her art as a vital instrument in preserving Filipino culture and fostering social change. Through her words, she aims to document the Filipino way of life, ensuring that the next generation doesn't forget the importance of reading books and understanding true history. "Bilang manunulat, malaking bahagi ng pagsulat upang ipabatid sa mga susunod na henerasyon kung anong buhay meron ang mga Pilipino. Nais naming mapanatili ang kaugalian ng pagsusulat upang hindi makaligtaan ang kahalagahan ng pagbabasa ng libro, at upang hindi malinlang ng maling kasaysayan," says Judy. To aspiring artists eyeing a path in community art, Judy offers three essential pieces of advice: trust in your abilities, find the right people to accompany you, and persevere in your chosen art form. "Una, dapat may tiwala sa sariling kakayahan at kayang manindigan sa sining na napili. Ikalawa, hanapin ang mga tamang tao na dapat sinasamahan. At panghuli, ipagpatuloy lang ang nasimulan," she advises. Looking ahead, Judy envisions a future where her art touches the lives of more youth, further propagating community-based art. Her focus extends beyond individual achievement to a collective effort aimed at revitalizing the arts. "Siguro mas marami pang mga kabataan ang aming matutulungan sa pamamagitan ng pagpapalaganap ng sining pangkomunidad. Hindi lang bilang isang indibidwal, kundi bilang isang community-based art group na ang layunin ay buhayin ang sining," she envisions. As Judy Azul continues to weave her stories into the fabric of Bicol's cultural tapestry, her commitment to community art remains unwavering. Through her words, she not only captures the essence of Filipino life but also amplifies the voices of those who may otherwise be unheard, ensuring that the community's vibrant narratives continue to resonate for generations to come. For more information about Judy, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/sentido1291 For months, the COVID-19 pandemic created different nuances of adapting to the “new normal” for individuals, communities, the economy, and the entire public life. In the Philippines, plastered all over social media is an upsurge of musical creativity by people making music from their balconies and homes defining the “new normal”. From solo acts, musical groups to bands, the potential of making music and having their performances digitally available to the public have spread virally with higher contagion rates than the COVID-19 virus itself. While the pandemic has wreaked havoc on the musical community, this not only affected the sphere of music all over the globe but the entire art world with many independent artists who earn through small gigs, exhibits, public concerts, tours and festivals who are now currently ruled out jeopardizing their only means of income. This led many artists and musicians to devote their creative resources to the production of art through visual arts exhibits, and creating musical online content such as music videos, virtual concerts, and organizing donation drives. Sorsogon City: An Emerging Music Hub In Sorsogon City, “Matugtog Kita”, a collaborative project of Sorsoganon musicians launched their first online concert entitled “ISURIYAW TA: Palayaon an Musikang Bikolnon!” on Independence Day, June 12. With the general public taking part which has been truly overwhelming, musicians who performed composed, and crafted innovative Bicolano lyrics, interpreted well-known Bicolano classic hit songs and even released their official music video promoting a call-to-action for musicians and artists to help one another create music that is relevant and meaningful to society. OPM Icon, Chickoy Pura Jr. of the Jerks delivered his own resonant rendition of the classic Bicolano love song, Sarung Banggi (One Night/One Evening) composed by Potenciano Gregorio Sr. Pura, who hails from Bulusan, Sorsogon has penned his share of classics:“Romantic Kill,” “Reklamo nang Reklamo,” “Sayaw sa Bubog,” “Rage” and many other hit songs. Plagpul, on the other hand, sang a playful version of Kudot-Kudotan (The Pinching Game), a Bicolano folk song reminiscing childhood love. Plagpul is a progressive rock band with members from Sorsogon City. Plagpul is also the band behind the viral parodies of Bella Ciao, an Italian protest folk song into Walang ma-Chow and the hit pop song Señorita. Notable original compositions filled the concert with Vulkitan by Je Sipoy, Yen Llanera and Gary Dioquino; Ted Aldwin Areola’s acoustic version of his original song, Kitang Duwa; Ilusyon by Save It For The Last and Bjorn Salvador’s Tingog kan Balud that talk about places, life and death, relationship, social class, and gender which are heavily embedded in our culture. Other musicians also performed lyrical rap and spoken word poetry. As most of the musicians who participated were all self-taught and are currently looking for ways or a platform to express themselves to cultivate their talents, the concert reverberated very raw performances in terms of musicality and production but their messages are very clear. They also share this unique bond to be heard and invite others to join them which in a way can be seen as representations of the modern aspects of Sorsoganon way of life and also of their changing attitudes and collective cultural expression through music. Instead of “performing live”, there are these recorded performances streamed live together with a donation drive and a Q & A session with musicians. Technically, these are not live performances but in the context of the challenges faced by our performers in terms of internet connectivity, face-to-face interaction and the risk of contagion, it is also important to understand the multitude of ways in which music is used, recorded and experienced during livestreaming of performances. These circumstances provide an opportunity for musicians to deal effectively with a threatening situation such as COVID-19 and this might help others involved in production to be better equipped should a similar situation occur in the future. It is also important to note the Public service announcements they conducted during the event where music has become embedded in our responses to disrupted lives. With music, Matugtog Kita is also able to advocate for a cause- an innovative digital mediation to making, sharing and experiencing performances. Defying the status quo It is also worth mentioning that Matugtog Kita came into fruition because in the past few years up to now, music and performance in Sorsogon in terms of public platforms are limited only to a few battle of the bands, elections, town festival gigs and a handful of songwriting competitions dedicated only in entertaining people as a SPECTACLE. Like COVID-19, it is also like a virus that plagued our culture for years and there is this danger for what this spectacle expresses because instead of uplifting creativity and unity among musicians, there is always this priority to compete. Oftentimes the intention of the organizers is for self-vested interest thus these platforms always become an instrument for corruption and electioneering instead of giving support to artists and musicians. Tired of the status quo? Perhaps it is now time for artists to unite and stand up against music that only entertains to attract people into our society’s consumerist culture and not really as an essential need for cultural upliftment. It may also be good in the future for Matugtog Kita to partner with community-based art groups in Sorsogon to further educate the people about music by conducting workshops, forums and performances that encourage other sectors such as the youth, women, PWDs, and the like. There is a necessity to involve or extend ourselves in the community to understand the relation of music with the people in the evolving conditions of the Sorsoganon society. There is therefore a need for Matugtog Kita to also re-educate the audience about the essence of music and its significance to the society particularly to the Sorsoganons. Definitely, music should be safeguarded for the generations yet to come! Written by: Choi Carretero |
ArchivesAuthorKurit-Lagting co-founder, Geri Matthew “Choi” Carretero. Choi is a multidisciplinary artist and community development worker. He has exhibited his artworks in various museums and galleries with themes about migration, displacement, and disability. |