Bacolod City, November 7, 2024 — Kyla Marie Borromeo, a fourth-year Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) student from La Consolacion College Bacolod, has clinched a spot in the Top 20 of the prestigious 57th Shell National Students Art Competition (NSAC). The final judging and announcement of winners will take place on November 15, 2024, at Ayala Museum in Makati City, where Borromeo’s work will stand alongside some of the finest artistic talents in the country.
Borromeo, no stranger to the competition, decided to make one last attempt this year as a graduating student. Driven by a passion to capture the essence of student artists’ creativity, she created a long-exposure photograph for her submission. “My entry this year was my second try for the Shell NSAC. Being a graduating student, I was inspired to try again for the last time and conceptualize a photograph that represents the creative passion that drives student artists,” she shared.
This creative vision, however, was not achieved in isolation. Borromeo credited her friends, Kate Billones and Angelie Bayona, for their support and collaboration in helping her realize her concept. “Their perspectives gave me the confidence I needed,” she said, expressing gratitude for the unique viewpoints they brought to her project.
Despite her achievement, Borromeo admitted to keeping her expectations modest throughout the selection process. “Honestly, I tried not to get my hopes up during the screening process,” she reflected. But the moment she received the qualifying email, her excitement and sense of pride were palpable. “When I saw the qualifying email, I couldn’t be more honored for the opportunity to represent LCC.”
The path to this accomplishment was not without challenges. Self-doubt almost held her back from submitting her work, yet the encouragement from her family and friends pushed her forward. “The main challenge was overcoming my self-doubt. I almost didn’t push through with conceptualizing my entry, but when my family and friends showed their support, I decided to try,” she recounted.
Reflecting on her years in the BFA program at LCCB, Borromeo shared how the experience shaped her journey as an artist. “My experience in the BFA program encouraged me to pursue my strengths and explore beyond my comfort zone. I learned to value the time it takes to grow as an artist, and believe that our work can measure and be seen.” This journey of growth and discovery has empowered her to pursue her passions and share her creative vision on a national stage.
As the final round approaches, Borromeo is not solely focused on the competition. “Qualifying for the final round in itself is huge. I hope that my entry inspires more student-artists to showcase their skills, and I’m looking forward as well to view different stories that my fellow artists worked hard to tell,” she said, humbled by the opportunity to stand alongside other talented creators. With a strong support system behind her, she approaches the event with gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead.
Borromeo’s journey exemplifies the dedication, resilience, and collaborative spirit of young Filipino artists. Her story will undoubtedly inspire her fellow students and aspiring artists to chase their dreams, echoing the spirit of creativity and determination that the Shell NSAC seeks to nurture.
As Borromeo steps into the spotlight at Ayala Museum, the LCCB community stands proudly behind her, eager to see her work celebrated on a national stage.