By: Aiken Ramos and Katrina Vallesteros
Student artworks took center stage at the University of Baguio Gymnasium during the 3rd Fiesta Cordillera, transforming the venue into a cultural gallery that reflected Cordilleran identity through creative expression.
Displayed ahead of the major pageant events such as Mr. and Ms. Cordillera, the art exhibit featured student-made works that explored stories, memories, and traditions rooted in Cordilleran culture.
The exhibit highlighted how students reinterpret heritage through personal perspectives, using art as a medium to express identity and lived experience.
The artworks, showcased throughout the day, presented a variety of styles and themes.
For many participants, the exhibit went beyond competition requirements, becoming an avenue for meaningful expression and cultural dialogue between artists and viewers.
The display invited the audience to engage with Cordilleran culture through emotion, imagination, and visual storytelling.
Judging for the exhibit was conducted on the same day, recognizing excellence in both group and individual categories.
In the Group Category, Entry 11 from Section NAF placed 2nd runner-up, Entry 12 from Section ABC earned 1st runner-up, and Entry 16 from Section NAJ emerged as champion.
Entry 16 also received the Best in Visual Presentation award, while Entry 18 from Section HBC was named Most Culturally Inspired Artwork.
Entry 11 further received the Most Meaningful Artwork award.
In the Individual Category, Entry 5 from Section BDF was awarded 2nd runner-up, Entry 2 from Section BFD secured 1st runner-up, and Entry 1 from Section EAB2 was declared champion.
Entry 1 also received Best in Visual Impact and Most Meaningful Artwork, while Entry 2 was recognized as Most Culturally Inspired Artwork.
Organizers noted that the art exhibit served not only as a competition but also as a platform for student expression and cultural exploration.
Through activities such as Fiesta Cordillera, the University of Baguio continues to promote spaces where students can connect with their heritage and share their cultural narratives with the wider community.
