On 28 April 2024, the Baguio Association of Government Grantees and Scholars (BAGGS) successfully hosted Lumikha: Hope Through Art, a paint-for-a-cause event held at the SLU Incubator for Research, Innovation, and Business (SIRIB Center), Otto Hahn Building, Saint Louis University Main Campus. This event was a core feature of Scholars’ Week 2024, in collaboration with Pugad ni Art Studio. With the theme of hope and resilience, the event aimed to foster creative thinking and promote social impact through the power of visual storytelling. With the leadership and initiative of Ms. Ruth Jemaima Ordonio, a dedicated scholar and advocate for youth empowerment, the event was not only a success but also a proud reflection of BAGGS’ commitment to excellence and creativity.
The art session took place on 28 April 2024 from 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM, gathering scholars from various colleges to participate in a collaborative painting experience. Guided by local artists and mentors, participants used acrylic paint to translate personal reflections of hope into visual pieces. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and inspiration as students immersed themselves in the process of creation, engaging not only their hands but also their hearts and minds.
Phase 1 of the project featured the Lumikha Painting Workshop, an interactive session where student artists were guided by the talented team of Pugad ni Art Studio—Kyle Vizcara, Karth Abando, and James Ison. These local artists generously shared their time, techniques, and stories, offering participants a hands-on learning experience in acrylic painting. The workshop served not only to develop artistic skills but also to encourage self-expression and emotional insight through visual art.
During the session, scholars channeled their personal interpretations of hope, resilience, and human connection into canvas. The energy was palpable as students engaged deeply with their work, inspired by the stories and techniques imparted by their mentors. This workshop aimed to strengthen the participants’ creative thinking, one of the core goals of the Lumikha project, while providing a platform for collaboration and reflection.
The paintings produced during the workshop were featured in an exhibit at the official BAGGS SLU booth as part of the Scholars’ Week 2024 celebration. This exhibit was an opportunity for the SLU community to witness and appreciate the students’ artistic contributions and to support the initiative’s broader social mission.
A total of 18 original paintings were completed during the activity. These artworks became a testament to the students’ ability to transform ideas into meaningful expressions. Each piece told a unique story—some inspired by personal journeys, others by community struggles and aspirations. This collective output showcased the scholars’ rich imagination and their deep understanding of the role of art in shaping a more hopeful and compassionate society.
Beyond the production of artwork, Lumikha was a testament to the meaningful partnerships that can be formed between student organizations and local creative communities. BAGGS’ collaboration with Pugad ni Art Studio demonstrated how shared values and missions can lead to impactful initiatives. The project aligned with BAGGS’ goal of enhancing the holistic development of scholars by providing opportunities beyond academics—fostering emotional intelligence, social consciousness, and community engagement. The event also allowed Pugad ni Art Studio to extend its advocacy for art education and social creativity, further strengthening ties between the university and the local arts scene.The success of Lumikha: Hope Through Art reinforces the belief that creativity is not only an artistic endeavor but also a vital human experience. Through this activity, BAGGS was able to provide a platform where students could process their experiences and aspirations in meaningful ways. It showcased how art can be a vehicle for empathy, connection, and transformation. As the paintings find new life in exhibitions or fundraising efforts, their messages will continue to resonate—serving as visual affirmations of hope, created by young minds who dare to imagine a brighter world. Ultimately, Lumikha stands as a lasting symbol of what is possible when passion, purpose, and creativity converge. (Photos and article by BAGGS)
