Art is a tool that can inspire many. We might not be aware of it, but art can influence our way of life. When we watch a film, read a book, listen to music, or look at pictures, we are made to feel a certain way. These reactions are only made possible through the honed craft of an artist. As a publication that has been around for over 126 years, The Manila Bulletin has always held a high regard for the arts. Here’s a look at how HATCH and Sketchfest, two programs by our publication that allow artists to express themselves freely, have evolved through the years to help inspire future generations of creatives.

What started as a simple get-together for artists every Easter has now evolved into a yearly showcase of just how far artists’ creativity can shine.

The Manila Bulletin’s HATCH series first found its start in 2018. What makes it stand out from other galleries is the artists’ canvas being fiberglass eggs. It allows creatives to go outside their usual comfort zones to come up with otherworldly designs.

In 2024, for the sixth edition of HATCH, National Artist Kidlat Tahimik shared how it was a “challenge he had never done before,” sharing how it helped spark new ideas despite being in his twilight years.

Our most recent HATCH event was the seventh edition and followed the theme “Emergence: A Fusion of Filipino Street Art.” It shed a spotlight on street art, the once-dismissed form of art that has slowly taken the world by storm.

There, we spotted colorful, graffiti-inspired urban artworks by local street artists that redefined how audiences view modern art. By sharing these types of new artworks, we bring overlooked pieces, often left on barely visited alleyways and unseen corners, to vast audiences.

Exhibits like HATCH also help elevate the local art scene by bringing new ideas into the fold that inspire others.

Since its first run in 2011, Sketchfest has come a long way in bringing together aspiring artists nationwide. On its first run, Sketchfest was held at the Ayala Triangle, following the theme “Freedom of Expression.” There were only 200 participants.

As the years went by, more people were eager to join, leading to the addition of Cebu and Davao City. Age groupings were also introduced to inspire the younger artists to have a go at the on-the-spot poster-making contest.

Fast forward to 2025, our most recent run of Sketchfest had contestants creating works on the spot yet again, following the theme, “How Life is Better.” Even in its 14th year, ideas felt fresh and exciting as contestants shared their stories through their art. Most of the artworks showed how advancements in technology have made life more convenient for them.

As The Manila Bulletin celebrates its 126th anniversary, we sincerely hope that the stories we share and the programs we provide continue to inspire others to create and find ways to express themselves. Art, after all, is what drives our culture and identity as a nation forward.