BIG UPS && shouts to fambam Al “Alpog” Arao of MegaVision El Drako Tattoo for doin’ it up at the 2nd Annual CNMI Art Competition sponsored by Bridge Capital LLC. Alpog’s piece, “Serenade” bagged 3rd place in the two-dimensional category. Check it out >> shouts && madd luv !! keep up the great work- CONGRATZZ !!
Filipino artist bags one of top prizes in art contest
By Clarissa DavidReporterSaipan Tribune – MaharlikaSaturday, may 14, 2011www.saipantribune.com
A tattoo artist on Saipan emerged as the only Filipino among the top winners in a recently concluded art competition.
Alfonso “Alpog” Elenzano Arao won $500 after placing third in the two-dimensional category of the 2nd Annual CNMI Art Competition sponsored by Bridge Capital LLC.
Arao’s winning piece, titled “Serenade,” depicts a man playing a guitar and crooning to an island girl. the painting is an acrylic on canvass and measures 32 ½ x 44 ½.
Arao and other category winners were awarded in a ceremony held at Bridge Capital’s corporate headquarters in Garapan last may 7.
Arao, in an interview after the awarding, said it took him a month and a half to finish his winning artwork since he only worked on it once he was done with his job at Megavision El Drako Tattoo.
“It was my first time to join the contest. I’m happy I won. it made me proud because I was the only Filipino winning artist,” he told Saipan Tribune.
According to Arao, his purpose for joining the annual art competition is “to gain exposure as an artist.”
A native of Quezon City, Arao’s artistic skills manifested at an early age, and he has competed and received awards in numerous art competitions in the Philippines.
“Art is, and will always, be my passion,” said Arao who is also into sculpting.
Arao studied Fine Arts at the University of the East before he came to Saipan in 1996 to work alongside his uncle, Eduardo “Dragon Edong” Elenzano.
“After placing third in the contest, I believe I am more motivated more than ever to join next year’s competition,” he said.
Arao disclosed that since he already has an idea about his entry for next year, he plans to start working on his masterpiece as early as possible.
“I am just happy and thankful that I have the support of my family and friends,” he added.
Arao encouraged other Filipino artists on Saipan to showcase their natural talents and skills by joining art competitions and exhibits to gain the exposure that they rightfully deserve.
“Don’t be afraid to join these contests and you need to have courage and strength to do so,” said Arao. “More importantly, you have to be passionate about art so you can give it your best shot.”
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