LOOK: WOOD CARVING WRAP UP

After spending two days working with their wooden sculptures, Cordilleran carvers all walk away leaving a unique art. The winners of the wood carving competition were announced on Sunday afternoon, March 5 at SM City Baguio. Nestor Anabon, 61, took home the first place using bamboo as his material, with his piece inspired by Cordilleran culture and influenced by BenCab’s art. Felipe Tiyad took second place and third place went to Kay Micheal Butic featuring “Bulul” (Ifugao rice granary guardian). All winners received a monetary prize, for their artistic efforts.

The main competition wasn’t the only chance for artists, young and old, to show off their skills. There was also a pot painting contest where participants came up with the Cordilleran-Panagbenga theme and painted the pots very artistically. Student Ron Ghea Estera won first place, Angel Dinamling came in second place, and Selyn Grande as the third placer.

The competition is part of SM City Baguio’s series of activities in celebration of Panagbenga 2023 and in celebration of Cordilleran Artscapes which highlights the creative and artistic aspect of the craft. The event was put together with Ms. Maricar Docyogen of the Pasakalye Group of Artists, with invited judges, Mr. Clinton Aniversario, the grand champion of the Ibagiw Functional Sculpture competition, Atty. Brenden Quinto of Department of Tourism, Ms. Rachel Ann Montoya of City Tourism Office, and poet-journalist, Mr. Frank Cimatu.  (PR / SM City Baguio file photos)