ICYMI: Here are the winning works from the 34th ‘Kulay Sa Tubig’ invitational watercolor competition exhibit

A joint project of Gallery Genesis and SM Megamall

The “Watercolor Wonders at SM Megamall” exhibit, which recently concluded at SM Mega Fashion Hall at SM Megamall, championed artists who translated the everyday life of Filipinos to watercolor works of art.

This project was also made possible with the support of Gallery Genesis, where a total of 90 artists competed for the Watercolorists Awards. There were top five winners and five runners-up, receiving a trophy, a certificate, and cash prize.

(From left) Gallery Genesis President Patrice Salas, Chairman Emeritus and ‘Kulay Sa Tubig’ Founder Araceli “Chichi” Salas, and Chairman Ernesto Salas with SM’s Millie Dizon during the opening of 34^th ‘Kulay Sa Tubig’ Invitational Watercolor Competition and Exhibit at SM Megamall.

Among the panel of judges were Felipe de Leon Jr., former Chairman of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA); Tina Colayco, Metropolitan Museum of Manila President; Maritess Mendoza-Pineda, Zonta Club President and ArteFino Co-Founder; Dr. Laya Boquiren-Gonzales, art historian, curatorial consultant, and professor; Joselito Zulueta, former Arts and Books Editor of the Philippine Daily Inquirer; and Ken Esguerra, Ayala Museum’s Senior Curator and Head of Conservation.

The distinguished panel awarded Renato Canlas (“Spring of Hope”), Ralvin Dizon (“Sa Pagitan ng Pahina at Paalam”), Rolando Guina (“Bike Check”), Dan Macapugay (“Ina”), and Richard Romeo (“A Golden Hour in Basilan”) which featured themes of maternity, environment, and modes of transportation.

“A Golden Hour in Basilan” by watercolorist Richard Romero

Renato Canlas who has already won three times (2019, 2021, and 2022) has also been included in the Hall of Fame of the award-giving body. Special awards were also given to other Hall of Famers like Rogelio Cerda, Edgar Fernandez, Christian Mirang, Margarita Lim, Jose Ceriola, Noli Principe Manalang, and Clarence Aduarte.

Gallery Genesis President Patrice Salas said, “This year’s edition is a lot more exciting and competitive because we see a lot of newer and unknown artists showcase their talent. This widens our reach and gives watercolorists from untapped areas in the Philippines the opportunity and platform to show their artworks.”

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