IN PHOTOS: Manila Bulletin Sketchfest 2023, 'We Are All Created Equal' a resounding success

First and foremost, the Manila Bulletin Sketchfest is a dedicated effort to champion Filipino artistic talent

BY Feliciano Rodriguez III
Oct 18, 2023 01:02 PM

The Manila Bulletin Sketchfest 2023, held on Sept. 30, 2023, was a resounding success, leaving an indelible mark on the artistic landscape of the Philippines.

This highly anticipated event brought together a diverse community of artists, from amateur sketch enthusiasts to seasoned professionals, in a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the power of visual storytelling.

The event took place at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, with its sprawling, open space - a perfect venue for the competition.

Since its inception, Sketchfest has grown into a cherished annual event that celebrates artistic talent and nurtures the creative spirit of the Filipino community. 

What makes this journey even more remarkable is the unwavering support it has received from dedicated partners, such as SM Retail, whose belief in the project has been the cornerstone of its success.

"Sketchfest has been a collaboration between MB and SM Retail who believed in the project and supported it since the beginning," shared Millie F. Dizon Senior Vice President - Marketing Communications Group, SM Retail.

"We share this advocacy to develop the talents of MB's readers ann sm's customers."

The invited judges we also impressed with the turnout of the event. 

"It was amazing to witness. "Ang galing at husay ng Pinoy! I truly believe that we Filipinos are highly creative, it’s just in our DNA," shared Elaine Clemente, who was one of six judges in Manila Bulletin Sketchfest 2023. (Read the judges profiles here.)

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The six judges for the culmination event of Manila Bulletin sketchfest 2023.

Co-judge Katrina Cuenca also shared Elaine's views. "It was an amazing feeling to be surrounded by so many promising artists both young and old. I could feel everyone’s passion for the arts and their drive to showcase their work and talent."

She continued, "I felt so much pride witnessing so many talented artists from all over the country. Clearly, the future of the Philippine art scene is bright. Our country is so rich in talented artists. I am looking forward to seeing these artists work in the art industry."

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A veritable army of artists, both amateur and experienced, flocked to the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia to participate in the culminating event of the Manila Bulletin Sketchfest 2023.
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The young ones were eager to showcase their creativity at the MB Sketchfest 2023.
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The theme "We are all created equal," challenged the artist to create a piece that will convey their thoughts on the matter.
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An esteemed roster of veteran artists lent their talent and creativity in judging the hundreds of entries in the competition.
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The judges took their time, and admitted encountering difficulties in judging the works at the Sketchfest. "It's all so good!" exclaimed Katrina Cuenca, one of the udges in the event.

The winners showcase their works:

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First and foremost, the Manila Bulletin Sketchfest is a dedicated effort to champion Filipino artistic talent. Undoubtedly, the event has successfully realized the ambitious goals we established. It goes without saying that the art community eagerly anticipates the fresh revelations that the upcoming Manila Bulletin Sketchfest will bring.