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, 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
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.
