Art for the Environment: CANVAS launches its first Art Biennale
Students pose with “Tree Huggers”, a monumental sculpture by Lito Mondejar based on a painting of the same title by Elmer Borlongan.
Ibaan, Batangas — February 24, 2024 was a sunny morning at the opening day of If Trees Could Talk, an International Art Biennale organized by The Center for Art, New Ventures and Sustainable Development. This event is one of our initiatives to use art in discussing environmental issues, particularly climate change. At the site of Tumba-Tumba Children’s Museum of Philippine Art, guests of all ages joined the short program which included a curatorial walkthrough and roaming time to view and interact with the art.
If Trees Could Talk International Art Biennale serves as an avenue to create conversations, raise awareness, and inspire positive action regarding environmental concerns. The theme for this year’s biennale finds its roots in CANVAS’ origins. In 2014, 2017, and 2018, we organized three exhibitions entitled “If Trees Could Talk”, and launched several books and events. Among these is our first book, “Elias and His Trees”, a story that celebrates trees and the powerful change one simple action can make.
The If Trees Could Talk website states, “The Biennale…is not merely an event - it is a continuation of CANVAS's long-held commitment to foster environmental awareness through its various programs and campaigns.”
A Day for the Trees
The opening began with performances by the acoustic band Musikangbayan. CANVAS Executive Director Gigo Alampay welcomed the guests by sharing the heart behind the biennale, which, as he stated, is an effort for the next generation. The artists of the works on display were introduced and recognized for their inspiring work. The program was concluded with a curatorial walkthrough led by CANVAS’ Curator, Jaime Pacena II. The guests in attendance happily took photos of the monumental art pieces and spoke with the artists over the local snacks served at the site.
Artists Participating in If Trees Could Talk include Elmer Borlongan, Lito Mondejar, Laurence Vallieres, Mark Salvatus, Cian Dayrit, Geraldine Javier, Jose John Santos III, Pam Yan Santos, Don Bryan Bunag, Leeroy New, Matthias Garff, Veronica Garcia, and the Spore Initiative. Our gracious partners, Panta Rhea Foundation, Spore Initiative, Goethe-Institut Philippines, Looking For Juan, ANOHA Children’s World of the Jewish Museum make this event possible.
What’s Next
Gigo Alampay stated, “Just like the works here [at the biennale], our efforts for the environment are in progress. Climate action takes constant intentions and follow-throughs. As for the efforts of CANVAS, there are many things to look forward to at the biennale, such as the upcoming installation by Cian Dayrit, art workshops with Matthias Garff and Veronica Garcia, and the Waterscapes Banner Show.
For more information about the biennale, visit iftreescouldtalk.art.
A non-profit that works with the creative community to promote literacy and explore national identity, CANVAS publishes its award-winning children's stories and donates their books to benefit children in public schools and poor communities throughout the Philippines. Its “One Million Books for One Million Filipino Children Campaign” promotes independent reading and creative thinking in Filipino children, while also exposing them to the best of contemporary Filipino art and literature.
