Tapping into the therapeutic effects of art to mental health, the council of Barangay San Antonio (BSA) in Pasig City launched on Saturday, July 30, a free monthly art program to strengthen ties between communities and curb pandemic-driven woes.
The art program, "Sining Galing," gathers art enthusiasts to learn different art forms taught by volunteer artists.
The program also showcases various art pieces that promote and support Filipino artists.
The lessons and workshops are conducted every last Saturday of the month as one of the new attractions of the People's Street on Emerald Avenue.
Raymond Lising, chairman of BSA, Pasig, said they want a program that "has aspects of tourism, culture, and arts that involves all ages, resident or not of BSA."
The introspective impact of art on an individual's mental health and personal development, as well as the bond-building, collaborative aspect of the medium, were the motivations behind the barangay leaders' crafting of the initiative.
“Learning art is known to be therapeutic, can help with mental wellness, discovering one’s untapped talent, or just plainly finding a new hobby that is beneficial to one’s own personal development,” Lising said.
“This program also aims to bring the community closer together which is the true essence of a ‘barangay’,” he added.
The program also enables participants to seek relief from the trials and personal tolls brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic as well as other ongoing socio-economic crises.
“Art in general is good. It is a worthwhile hobby. It can contribute to mental wellness and personal development which we all need in this time of chaos brought about by the pandemic,” Lising said.
The program was spearheaded by the barangay Committee on Tourism led by Councilor Venus La Putt.
It was implemented through the efforts of the local government, barangay officials, civic society organizations, community members, and other stakeholders.