Igniting the Flame of Filipino Creativity through “Alab”: The 58ᵗʰ Shell National Students Art Competition
For over seven decades, the Shell National Students Art Competition (NSAC) has been a driving force in nurturing the artistic potential of the Filipino youth. As the longest-running student arts competition in the Philippines, it continues to empower young artists to shape the cultural landscape of tomorrow. Since its founding in 1951, the Shell NSAC has been a launchpad for many of the nation’s most iconic artists, such as National Artists like Jose Joya, Federico Aguilar Alcuaz, Ang Kiukok, and Benedicto “Bencab” Cabrera, along with contemporary talents like Ronald Ventura and Leeroy New.
This prestigious competition not only celebrates the remarkable skills of student artists but also sparks the creative energy that contributes to a more vibrant and forward-thinking society. Through the years, Shell has continually expanded the scope of the competition, encouraging artistic innovation and opening new avenues for creative expression. With every new theme, students are invited to experiment, break boundaries, and ultimately, reflect on the world around them.
The 58th Shell NSAC carries the theme “ALAB” – a powerful representation of the passion, hope, and purpose that drives today’s generation of artists. The theme calls on young Filipino creators to reflect on the fire within them that fuels their artistic journeys and to share the stories behind their inspiration. Through their works, we uncover a shared vision of a brighter tomorrow, driven by the collective power of creativity. As the flames of individual passion come together, they illuminate the path to a progressive Philippines.
Are you a student artist with a story to tell? Join the 58th Shell NSAC today and let your ALAB shine!
Lighting the Way: The Sponsors and Partners Powering Young Filipino Artistry at NSAC 2025
The 58th Shell National Student Art Competition (NSAC) stands as a tribute to the creativity, vision, and passion of the Filipino youth. More than a contest, it is a collaborative effort—uniting individuals and institutions in support of a generation using art to imagine and shape a brighter future.
This year, as we celebrate the inner ALAB of young creators—the spark of passion, purpose, and hope that fuels their work. We also recognize the invaluable contributions of those who make this platform possible. Their belief in the power of Filipino artistry brings life to this annual celebration of talent and vision.
We proudly acknowledge our sponsors, whose generous support ensures that student artists across the country have the opportunity to tell their stories and share their unique perspectives: Boysen Philippines, IFEX, Airspeed.
We also extend our deepest thanks to our institutional and cultural collaborators, who help cultivate and connect artistic communities nationwide: Aquino Center and Museum, Artist Welfare Inc., Orange Project, Gravity Art Space, Cebu City Museum, Clark Museum and 4D Theater, GK Gallery Tagaytay, GK Gallery Cadiz, Galerie Joaquin, Thombayan Art Space, Arts Geek Manila, Ayala Museum, Bahay Modernismo, Tandang Sora Women's Museum, The Quezon Heritage House, Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA), Anima Art Space, Museo Iloilo, and the National Museum of the Philippines.
Together, we are able to empower young artists to dream boldly, create meaningfully, and inspire deeply. Shell NSAC becomes more than a platform—it becomes a movement, igniting the future of Filipino art.
National Students Art Competition
Artists have the power to channel their voice into their craft to command change. On Shell's 57th National Students Art Competition, we invite them to use their creativity and charge forward through art.
Onwards and Upwards: Exploring Creativity at the first-ever 6 Month Exhibit for Shell NSAC Winners
Celebrating the National Arts Month, Shell Pilipinas Corporation launched the 57th Shell National Students Art Competition (NSAC) and opened a 6-month exhibit at the National Musuem of Fine Arts. With the theme, 'Lika na, Likha pa ng Obra', the competition invites student artists to explore their creativity and continue crafting masterpieces showcasing Philippines progress. Renowned artist Renato Habulan curated the exhibit, "Onwards and Upwards," showcasing Shell NSAC's winning artworks from 2020 to 2023, offering a glimpse into the evolution of Filipino creativity.
Onwards and Upwards: Celebrating Shell's 110th Year with the Launch of the 57th Shell NSAC and Opening of the 6-month Exhibit. At the event, Shell NSAC alumni, known as the "Masters" was recognized inspiring young artists to unleash their creative potential and continue to highlight Filipino excellence in the arts.
The exhibition of Shell NSAC winning artworks will be on display for six months, offering an extended opportunity for art enthusiasts and aspiring artists to explore and appreciate the showcased artworks. Open Tuesdays to Sundays from 9AM to 6PM, the exhibition welcomes visitors of all ages, offering free admission until August 25, 2024.
For those interested to join the 57th Shell National Students Art Competition, please submit your entries here.
Shell National Students Art Competition Through The Years
Read the transcript
Read the transcript
Title: Shell National Students Art Competition Through The Years
Duration: 04:26
Description:
A video narrating how Shell National Students Art Competition progresses through the years.
For more than half a century, Shell Pilipinas Corporation (SPC) has inspired Filipino youths to showcase their artistry and creativity through the annual Shell National Students Art Competition (NSAC). At the forefront of championing arts in nation-building and values formation, Shell NSAC has continually mounted exhibits to showcase the works of young Filipino artists to reach more audiences and recognize the talents of these students.
(00:00 - 00:03) Music with Quick cuts of NSAC Artworks
(00:03 - 00:09) “A quest for a subject for its 1952 calendar”: In the years after World War II, there was a collective effort of nation-building in the Philippines.
(00:09 – 00:23) “Many considered visual arts unimportant in the of WW2”: Despite a push for artistic awareness though, there was a misconception that art was not included, nor needed Thus, the visual arts remained largely unavailable to the masses, especially to the youth.
(00:23 – 00:33) “The Goal: Make the arts more accessible to the common Juan”: This is where Shell stepped in, seeing an opportunity to help nurture and promote Filipino talents, and in doing so, making art more accessible to the common Juan.
(00:33 – 00:44) “A quest for a subject for its 1952 calendar”: So the first ever Shell National Students Art Competition was launched, prompted by a modest company memorandum: “A quest for a subject for its 1952 calendar”
(00:44 – 01:00) “Montage of 1951 NSAC paintings, ending with the 1st Prize entry: Congested City”: About 50 original paintings by students from the country’s leading art schools vied for the win, which was to be the artwork on the cover of the 1952 Shell Oil calendar, and P250 as a cash prize for its artist.
(01:00 – 01:04) “It was the start of a beloved tradition in the Philippine Art scene”
(01:04 – 01:12) “The longest running student art competition”: For the next two decades, Shell held NSAC every year, to the delight of young Filipino artists everywhere.
(01:12 – 01:23) “NSAC Proved the youth were the key to greater and richer Philippine Art”: The success of the first Shell NSAC had proved that the nation was rife with artistic talents, and the youth especially were poised to enrich Philippine art in a scale never seen before.
(01:23 – 01:34) “Montage of prize winning/notable NSAC Paintings”: Every year, more and more student artists participated in the competition, with the prizes and prestige growing alongside the number of artwork submitted.
(01:34 – 01:40) “NSAC Categories”: New categories were even introduced to give participants more ways to express their talents.
(01:40 – 01:56) “Quick cuts of photos of notable NSAC artists”: It was clear Shell NSAC had become much more than just a calendar art making competition. It was now a recognized and respected platform for budding new artists, many of whom enjoyed very successful careers, both locally and internationally.
(01:56 – 02:02) “No NSAC for 16 years”: In September 1972, the entire country was placed under Martial Law.
(02:02 – 02:10) “Martial Law stock footages and photos”: Because of the tumultuous times, Shell NSAC withdrew from the Philippine art scene, putting an end to a then 21-year old tradition.
(02:10 – 02:13) “Ibangon ang Shell art contest!”
(02:13 – 02:20) “The return of Shell NSAC”: After 16 years on pause, the Shell National Students Art Competition was revived due to popular demand.
(02:20 – 02:27) “Quick cuts of different NSAC theme logos/key visuals”: And Shell NSAC was ready to once again serve as inspiration and amplifier for young Filipino artistry.
(02:27 – 02:34) “The competition restarted with Oil/Acrylic and Watercolor categories”: Making use of its fresh start, the competition went back to basics with Oil/Acrylic and Watercolor categories.
(02:34 – 02:41) “Sculpture was brought back in 1998. The virtual age led to the introduction of the Digital Fine Arts category”: Then eventually brought back the Sculpture category, and introduced Digital Fine Arts at the turn of the millennium.
(02:41 – 02:52) “As Shell NSAC made its mark in the 21st century, it gained many milestones and success along the way”: Indeed, As Shell NSAC settled into its second life – now perhaps a little more familiar-looking to its modern-day participants. It gained Many milestones and successes along the way.
(02:52 – 02:57) “Shell NSAC Artist who became national artists”: Shell NSAC alumni artists were named national artists.
(02:57 – 03:05) “Shell NSAC notable artist who received prestigious awards with their winning artworks”: And countless more did the NSAC legacy proud, receiving great acclaim in the art scene and exhibiting all over the world.
(03:05 – 03:13) “Action Shots: People at galleries, art shows, etc.”: But then, right as Shell NSAC was about to celebrate its 53rd year, a global crisis forced everyone into lockdown.
(03:13 – 03:17) “Going online – a new era for NSAC”
(03:17 – 03:26) “Pandemic stock footages and photos”: The COVID-19 pandemic changed everyday living for everyone. The youth, perhaps more so than anyone else, had to get used to a new normal.
(03:26 – 03:40) “Shell NSAC knew it needs to continue the tradition”: But just as this generation stepped up and showed its resilience, so too did Shell NSAC rise to the challenge, determined to continue the tradition, and provide an inspiration to many Filipinos in times of COVID-19 crisis
(03:40 – 03:50) “The competition was moved online, sparking hope in the art and hearts of the nation”: For the first time ever, the competition was moved online. And in doing so, succeeded in sparking hope back in the art and hearts of the nation.
(03:50 – 03:57) “The milestone year marked a change in the NSAC experience”: The milestone year marked a change in the Shell NSAC experience, drawing in and exciting more students than ever.
(03:57 – 04:14) “Now on its 55th year, NSAC will continue to grow and evolve with the times”: Now on its 55th year, NSAC will continue to grow and evolve with the times. And, just as it set out to do in 1951, it will nation-build through art -- recognizing, developing, and promoting the artistic potential of the Filipino youth.
(04:14 – 04:21) Collage of different NSAC artworks through the year and forming the Shell Pecten
(04:21 – 04:26) Shell Sound
ALAB
The Filipino youth are a generation of changemakers – individuals who are driven, inspired, and motivated to create a brighter tomorrow. They are artists with bold visions, crafting works that reflect their dreams, values, and aspirations. These young creators channel their personal journeys into their art, sparking dialogues that uplift and unite communities.
For the 58th Shell NSAC, we celebrate the inner ALAB of today’s student artists – the flame of passion, hope, and purpose that fuels their creativity and drive for change. This competition invites young creators to reflect on what inspires them and to share the stories behind their motivations.
By exploring the heart of what drives this generation’s artistry, we uncover a wealth of perspectives and possibilities. Through their works, we see a nation inspired, proving that when each flame burns bright, we illuminate the path to a stronger and more hopeful Philippines.
CONTEST PERIOD
CONTEST PERIOD
- Submission of Entries: June 6, 2025 (12:00 AM PHT) - October 6, 2025 (11:59 PM PHT)
- Validation of Entries: October 7, 2025 - October 13, 2025
- Preliminary Screening [All entries]: October 20, 2025 - October 21, 2025
- Shipping of Artworks [Total of 100 entries (20 per category)]: October 22, 2025 - November 5, 2025
- Actual Screening [Total of 100 entries (20 per category)]: November 6, 2025
- Final Judging [15 winners (Top 3 per category)]: November 11, 2025 - November 12, 2025
- Announcement of Winners: December 5, 2025
WHO CAN JOIN?
WHO CAN JOIN?
- The contest is open to college students who are enrolled for at least one semester in a duly recognized college or university in the Philippines for the academic year 2024 to 2025 and 2025 to 2026 with at least 9 units.
- Graduates of the academic year 2024 to 2025 are eligible to join the contest, as long as they are enrolled upon submission of entries.
- Senior high school students are also not eligible to join the contest.
- 1st Place Winners of the previous Shell National Students Art Competition may still join except in the category where they have already won.
- Meanwhile, 2nd and 3rd Place Winners may still join the contest even in the category where they have already won.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
Total of 15 winners (Top 3 per category)
- Top 1 per category: Php60,000 cash, a limited-edition Shell NSAC shirt and jacket, and a plaque.
- Top 2 per category: Php40,000 cash, a limited-edition Shell NSAC shirt and jacket, and a plaque.
- Top 3 per category: Php30,000 cash, a limited-edition Shell NSAC shirt and jacket, and a plaque.
- Top 4-20 or Finalists per category: Php2,000 cash, a limited-edition Shell NSAC shirt, and a Certificate of Participation.
- The respective School or University of the first prize winners will get a special grant worth Php20,000 in support of the Faculty Development Program.
HOW TO JOIN?
HOW TO JOIN?
STEP 1: Visit the official website of Shell Pilipinas Corporation to review the complete mechanics.
STEP 2: Once you have completed all the requirements, click the link to register: shell.com.ph/nsac
STEP 3: Complete the entry form and upload the requirements.
- Category
- Download Link
- Complete Name (as shown in the valid I.D): (First Name, Middle Name, Surname)
- Mobile Number
- Email Address
- Postal Address
- School Name
- Course
- Character Reference (Name of Professor/Dean/Department Head):
- Contact Number
- Department
- Entry Title
- Brief Description of the Artwork
- Entry Specifications
- Category
- Medium
- Size in inches for Oil/Acrylic, Watercolor - must be Length x Width (L x W).
- Size in inches for Sculpture - must be Length x Width x Height (L x W x H).
- Price in Philippine Peso or (indicate NFS if the artwork is Not for Sale)
STEP 4: Upload the following files. Label the files with your first name and surname followed by the title of the entry and the respective number of the requirement. For example: Jane dela Cruz Bagong Pag Asa 1.
A. Oil/Acrylic
- One (1) full shot of the artwork including the frame with a plain background.
- One (1) full shot of the finished artwork with the student artist
- One (1) supporting document: Certificate of Registration; School Identification Card; Report Card; Endorsement Letter from the University signed by the Head of Department.
*NOTE: Maximum of 4MB per file upload.
B. Watercolor
- One (1) full shot of the artwork including the frame with a plain background.
- One (1) full shot of the finished artwork with the student artist.
- One (1) supporting document: Certificate of Registration; School Identification Card; Report Card; Endorsement Letter from the University signed by the Head of Department.
*NOTE: Maximum of 4MB per file upload.
C. Sculpture
- One (1) Collage of front view, rear view, left view, right view shot of artwork with a plain background.
- One (1) full shot of the finished artwork with the student artist.
- One (1) supporting document: Certificate of Registration; School Identification Card; Report Card; Endorsement Letter from the University signed by the Head of Department.
*NOTE: Maximum of 4MB per file upload.
D. Digital Fine Arts
- One (1). JPG file of the artwork. Entries should be at least 300 DPI.
- One (1) full-shot progress photo with the student artist.
- One (1) supporting document: Certificate of Registration; School Identification Card; Report Card; Endorsement Letter from the University signed by the Head of Department.
*NOTE: Maximum of 4MB per file upload.
E. Photography
- One (1). JPG file of the artwork. Specifications: File Size 3 to 10 MB; Image Size 10 x 15 inches or 3000 x 4500 pixels, Resolution 300 dpi, Color Profile - RGB.
- One (1) supporting document: Certificate of Registration; School Identification Card; Report Card; Endorsement Letter from the University signed by the Head of Department.
Note:
The Top 20 Qualified Entries in the Digital Fine Arts Category will be required to submit a copy of the layered file via email for final evaluation.
The Top 20 Qualified Entries in the Photography Category will be required to submit a copy of the original/unedited JPEG files via email for final evaluation.
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
- The zipped file name should indicate the first name and surname of the participant followed by the title of the entry. For example, Jane dela Cruz Bagong Pag Asa
- All requirements must be properly labeled with the first name and surname of the participant, followed by the requirement name and number. For example:
- JanedelaCruzArtworkFullShot.jpg
- JanedelaCruzFullShotWithArtist.jpg
- JaneDelaCruzSupportingDoc.jpg
- JanedelaCruzOriginalWorkingFile1.psd
- Photos should be at 300 DPI.
- Ensure that you photograph the artwork properly. Here are some guidelines to help you.
- Hang the painting on the wall. Place your work at a height where the focal point will parallel to where your camera will be. Remove the glass to avoid reflection.
- Light your work properly. Shoot your work in a room with plenty of natural light.
- Adjust the camera and settings. The ISO and aperture of your camera are important to get clear, crisp, and bright images of your artwork.
- The submitted photo must be the final artwork and should not be digitally enhanced. More so, it should not be altered and modified after the submission of the entry.
- The entry should not have signatures or watermarks that identify the artist.
- The price indicated on the entry of the artwork will be considered final and cannot be changed at any time after its submission.
- The entry should not have been submitted to any other national or international art competitions.
- Participants may submit a maximum of two (2) entries in any category. Each entry should be registered and submitted separately.
- Register and submit entries from June 6, 2025 (12:00 AM PHT) – October 6, 2025 (11:59 PM PHT)
- Contact shellnsacsecretariat@gmail.com for inquiries regarding the submission of entries.
