5-man Mural Painting (8' x 8' Movable Wall)

This 8 feet by 8 feet (movable wall) painting was our entry for an on-the-spot mural painting contest, recently held at our city. Although we have not won the judges’ decision, I am proud of our finished work not only because it was the very first time to do a mural painting with my two sons who are also into the visual arts, but as well as for the following reasons,
ORIGINALITY: Our piece is an original concept based on the very theme the organizers gave us which was, “Filipino Culture and Tradition.” It was not made out from copied photos or any existing artworks. It is a fusion of contemporary art and a touch of impressionism. The very reason why it is done with bold color contrasts and brushstrokes.
OVER-ALL COMPOSITION & RELEVANCE TO THE THEME: Unlike most other participating teams, our team (which was ONLY composed of five persons) stood true to the given theme, with a straightforward approach and message with NO EXTRA, UNNECESSARY elements. The central focus is about respecting for the elderly which tradition can still be traced all over the Philippine archipelago. Secondly, the being religious or of being prayerful---giving honor towards an omnipotent and omniscient God which is also a common Filipino tradition even when we are outside of our country. Thirdly, we as Filipinos, whatever dialect, tribe, or region we belong, when we eat (even on special occasions), we love to use our hands to show our appreciation to the food served before us while happily eating together with our family, friends, or community. Other necessary elements can be found embedded on its background, subdued repetitions of dancing figures of ethnic Filipino culture. Lastly, since the contest was held during the “Feast of Butterflies,” butterfly symbols are seen flying from above in contrast with the flowers below. It also allows the viewers’ eye to look from the outside towards the center focus, and/or vice versa.
TRUE TO THE RULES/DURATION: Unlike the other participating teams, our team did not have an extra person/s to work with us during the contests proper because the original contest ruling was, ONLY THOSE REGISTERED 5 persons per team are allowed to paint or work in the contest venue/area. We also stayed true to the original contest duration which was, 1st Day (approximately 6 hours); 2nd Day (approximately 10 hours); and 3rd Day (approximately 10 hours) with a total of at least 26 hours to get it done. The reasons why our team conceptualized our piece in such a way we could finish our work on that particular time. Sadly, those rules were not met rather gave so much over time (around 3-4 extra hours per day, total of 9-12 extra hours) in favor to the rest of the participating teams to work in the area or venue proper even when we or they (organizing committee) are not around to supposedly strictly impose the said ruling. Most probably the judges were not aware of those.
This may be kind of shocking to know for other countries, sad but true for it stains all our colorful culture & beautiful tradition, and it happens here in the Philippines. It's a shame and I felt sorry for that.
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Love & peace everyone!