With the theme “Lika na, Likha pa ng Obra”, the 57th Shell National Students Art Competition (NSAC) continues to provide a platform for young Filipino artists to showcase their talent. On November 15, 2024, the competition’s final event recognized the winning works of students from across the country. Among the top entries, Jason Mendoza, a fourth-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Technology in Architectural Drafting at Sorsogon State University, took home first place in the Sculpture Category.
His success demonstrates the exceptional mentorship at the university, where students are encouraged to explore and develop their artistic potential across diverse disciplines.
Mendoza’s winning piece, “Higit pa sa Ginto ang Hulmang Pamana”, stood out for its intricate craftsmanship and depth of expression. His clay sculpture honors the pottery tradition of Paradijon, Gubat, Sorsogon. It depicts a spiral of hands, each shaping the next, symbolizing skills transfer through generations. At the top, a child’s hand holds a pot, representing the new generation carrying on the craft. Flames surround the hands, highlighting the transformative power of fire in pottery. The sculpture sits on a base resembling a traditional pottery wheel, symbolizing a legacy that is truly more precious than gold.
The Pamantasang May Puso proudly celebrates Mr. Mendoza’s victory, recognizing his remarkable achievement in this prestigious national competition. His win at the 2024 Shell NSAC is a significant milestone and a moment of pride for Sorsogon State University.
Equally deserving of recognition is Kem Buragay, a first-year BS Architecture student, who also made it to the Top 20 Finalists in the Watercolor Painting Category, and Jason Mendoza for making it to the Top 20 Finalists in the Acrylic Painting Category.
Congratulations to both of you on this outstanding achievement!
The university also extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Sports, Culture & Arts Unit under the Office of Student Development and Services (OSDS), led by Prof. Maria Crisanta M. Jarque (Director, OSDS) and Mr. Gerald E. Fulay, JD (Vice President for Administration and Finance), for their efforts in coordinating and facilitating the submission of entries to the 57th Shell National Students Art Competition. (SorSU PIO)
Photo credits: Jsonmndoza, Kem Buragay & Vian Pacheco
