ARTWORK
Blessings of the Harvest
Size: 76cm x 76cm
Medium: Mixed media on canvas
Artwork Description
For my “Festive Wonders” exhibit entry, I chose to paint a tribute to one of the Philippines’ most celebrated festivals: the Kadayawan Festival. Held annually in Davao City, Kadayawan is a vibrant celebration of life, gratitude for the gifts of nature, cultural wealth, abundant harvests, and the peace that sustains communities. As a harvest festival, it also signals the beginning of durian season, a time when this unique fruit becomes central in Davao’s decorations and cuisine. The term “Kadayawan” stems from “madayaw,” which means superior, good, or valuable, and reflects the spirit of thanksgiving and appreciation for life’s blessings.
This festival holds personal significance for me, as I was crowned Miss Kadayawan during my final year of college. My group and I were the overall champions in the Kadayawan street dancing and float competition, an experience that included a memorable feature on the Manila Bulletin cover. I wore a “Mulawin”-inspired costume, representing Davao’s majestic Philippine Eagle—the country’s national bird and one of the largest eagles in the world.
In this artwork, I portray myself as a Goddess bestowing blessings upon the people, surrounded by four iconic symbols of Davao that embody its unique spirit. The Philippine Eagle symbolizes Davao’s rich biodiversity, the Durian represents the city’s fruitful harvest, the Waling-waling orchid reflects its colorful and captivating beauty, and Mt. Apo stands for the resilience of Davao amidst challenges. Together, these elements capture the heart of Kadayawan and the enduring strength, abundance, and beauty of Davao.
Size: 76cm x 76cm
Medium: Mixed media on canvas
Artwork Description
For my “Festive Wonders” exhibit entry, I chose to paint a tribute to one of the Philippines’ most celebrated festivals: the Kadayawan Festival. Held annually in Davao City, Kadayawan is a vibrant celebration of life, gratitude for the gifts of nature, cultural wealth, abundant harvests, and the peace that sustains communities. As a harvest festival, it also signals the beginning of durian season, a time when this unique fruit becomes central in Davao’s decorations and cuisine. The term “Kadayawan” stems from “madayaw,” which means superior, good, or valuable, and reflects the spirit of thanksgiving and appreciation for life’s blessings.
This festival holds personal significance for me, as I was crowned Miss Kadayawan during my final year of college. My group and I were the overall champions in the Kadayawan street dancing and float competition, an experience that included a memorable feature on the Manila Bulletin cover. I wore a “Mulawin”-inspired costume, representing Davao’s majestic Philippine Eagle—the country’s national bird and one of the largest eagles in the world.
In this artwork, I portray myself as a Goddess bestowing blessings upon the people, surrounded by four iconic symbols of Davao that embody its unique spirit. The Philippine Eagle symbolizes Davao’s rich biodiversity, the Durian represents the city’s fruitful harvest, the Waling-waling orchid reflects its colorful and captivating beauty, and Mt. Apo stands for the resilience of Davao amidst challenges. Together, these elements capture the heart of Kadayawan and the enduring strength, abundance, and beauty of Davao.
ABOUT ARTIST
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Cristine Gonzales
https://www.instagram.com/cristinelobagonzales/ Cristine Gonzales is a dedicated Mixed Media Artist with a diverse background, holding a Bachelor of Science in Tourism from Centro Escolar University in Manila, Philippines. A Filipina and a Permanent Resident of Singapore for over 17 years. Cristine entered the art world in 2016 and has since become a passionate Art Enrichment Teacher, sharing the gift of creativity with young minds for more than six years. Cristine has participated actively in numerous art exhibitions, both in Singapore and online, where her work has earned awards and recognition. Her artistic vision extends beyond traditional canvases, as she believes that art can find expression on a wide range of surfaces. She works with unique “canvases” such as bags, shoes, hats, clothes, lampshades, winnowing trays, handwoven mats, cutting boards, wooden planks—even upcycled materials like parts from ceiling fans—and murals. Her art is cherished by her supporters, both online and through word-of-mouth. Cristine’s commitment to creativity, coupled with her innovative approach to mixed media, has helped her build a strong and loyal following who value her ability to transform everyday items into visual works of art. |
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