A month-long art exhibit was launched on Friday, International Women’s Day (IWD), to showcase the talent and resilience of Filipino women artists.

Artipolo, a group of artists from Antipolo City, Rizal, launched the exhibition “Mujeres Del Artes 6,” at Chef Jessie Rockwell Club in Makati City.

Event chairperson Chrisellie Guzik said the exhibit is aligned with the IWD 2024 theme of “Investing in Women: Accelerating Progress” and this year’s campaign theme of “Inspire Inclusion.”

Guzik said the exhibit, on its sixth year, aims to contribute to the vision by providing a platform for women artists to express their creativity and share their unique perspectives.

“When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world,” Guzik said.

Kristine Evangelista, one of the guests of honor, stressed the need to empower women artists and foster their creative and “world-class” talents.

“This is a good opportunity to showcase the talent of the Filipina, and I think we are always world-class,” Evangelista, a former Agriculture Assistant Secretary, said.

Evangelista said the exhibit is more than just a display, arguing that it is also a reflection of the diverse experiences of Filipino women.

“The display that I see, the exhibit right now, is the best way to show what we’ve been through and all the experiences of the women because I think it is a reflection of the heart,” Evangelista added.

She expressed hope that such initiatives would provide more opportunities for women artists to thrive.

Jennifer Lee-Bonto, executive director of the Artists’ Welfare Project, cited the emotional investment of women artists.

She said women artists are exceptional in maintaining their creative lives while mothering.

“Each time a woman artist would present her work, that work is her heart. She creates with her heart,” she said.

Lee-Bonto also emphasized the importance of championing the rights and welfare of artists in all genres.

The exhibit will run until March 30. (PNA)