Where students artists look back to move

At first glance, Kanhi-ay may sound like a wistful look into the past but for the Arts and Design students of the University of San Carlos Senior High School, it’s also a leap forward.

Running until Monday, May 19, 2025, this student-led exhibit brings together more than 80 artworks, all created by young hands eager to explore, question and honor what once was. Opened on Friday, May 9, at the SM Seaside Third Level Cube Wing, the exhibit demonstrates select photographs and mixed media pieces that prove student art is about voice.

“I wanted to be more reckless with my brushstrokes,” said Grade 12 student Adriana Buot, who presented three heritage-inspired pieces: “Our Lady Queen of Heaven,” “Bato Balani sa Gugma” and “Kapehan sa Casa Gorordo.”

“But still keep a bit of realism. So in a way, my artworks are just me experimenting.”

Buot’s personal tribute to her mother, painted with faith and sentiment, was one of many pieces that anchored the exhibit in memory and meaning. “She’s not here right now, but she will be during Mother’s Day,” she added.

The exhibit is about the process, too. A Mother’s Day art workshop on Sunday, May 11, welcomed laughter, stories and crayon-smeared fingers into the space. On May 18, visitors will get a behind-the-scenes look at how these young artists work, with a live painting demo that promises spontaneity and honest expression.

“There’s so much potential here,” shared Arts & Design assistant instructor Tina Marie Gandionco.

At the heart of the gallery, photographs offer quiet clues to how these pieces came to life. “Many students use photo references, especially in the classroom,” Gandionco noted. “More and more students who used to work with student-grade materials are now upgrading and progressing.”

One of those students, Tom Maverick Murcia, found joy in the everyday. His painting, “Cebuano’s Internal Joy,” is a loving nod to pungko-pungko street food culture, with puso and fried delights. “A lot of people can relate to that,” he said, grinning. “I actually ran out of time, but it worked!”

Some students like Nareene Claire Ponpon, leaned into gentle observation. Her piece, “Ang Amoang Langgam, Siloy,“ was inspired by a bird native to the Philippines. “We were asked to paint something related to Filipino culture, and I thought this bird was beautiful,” she said.

While she usually leans toward impressionism, this piece pushed her to explore realism. “Honestly, I just pick up the brush and start painting,” Ponpon said with a laugh.

And maybe that’s what makes Kanhi-ay special — it’s not about presenting polished artists, but celebrating students in motion.

The faculty are happy that the students are learning to express themselves — not just through paint, but also through words. You can see how people respond to that. Some visitors even ask to meet the artists.

For these young creatives, Kanhi-ay is a chance to speak up. It’s a celebration not just of the past, but of the student spirit — curious and still unfolding.