“Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable.”
Banksy, renowned England-based street artist, political activist, and film director. This quote underscores the transformative and confrontational power of art to both comfort and disturb, offering a nuanced perspective on the varied roles that art can play in society. By advocating for art that engages with the discomforting realities of life while providing solace to those in need, Banksy highlights the potential of visual arts to inspire empathy, provoke reflection, and drive social change.
VISUAL art is a form of expression that can evoke emotions, inspire creativity, and bring people together. It encompasses many mediums, from painting and sculpture to photography and digital art.
Visual art allows artists to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and perspectives in a way that words cannot always fully or creatively capture.
It is a universal language that transcends barriers and connects individuals from different cultures and backgrounds.
But why is visual art so important?
Why do we need it in our lives?
The answer is that visual art can stimulate our senses, ignite our imagination, and provoke thought. It allows us to see the world in new and different ways, to challenge our beliefs and perceptions, and to explore the depths of our emotions.
Visual art has the power to inspire change, to spark creativity, and to bring beauty into our lives.
One of my most heartfelt experiences of witnessing the power of visual art was when I visited Don Bosco Technical Institute (a school run by the Salesians in Manila) on June 9 & 10 2024, facilitated by Rev.
Father Ramon Galve Borja of SDB.
The moment I stepped onto the compound, I was greeted by an authentic, creative, and vibrant display of visual art that captivated my senses.
Walking along the walkway, I was struck by the beauty and creativity surrounding me.
The visual art that adorned the walls of the school communicated a message of positivity, hope, and inspiration.
The colourful artworks, the intricate sculptures, and the vibrant paintings all told a story of faith, courage, and love.
Each piece of art spoke to me differently, profoundly touching my heart and soul.
But it was not just the artwork that impressed me; it was the entire set-up of the school that spoke to me on a deeper level.
From the offices of the priests and staff to the classroom set-up, to the lush green surroundings, the surrounding outdoor spaces like the dining hall and football and basketball courts, everything seemed to be designed with a purpose.
The layout of the school, the use of colours and textures, the placement of furniture and decorations — all these elements came together to create a harmonious and visually pleasing environment that fostered learning, growth, and self-expression.
What caught my eye the most was the slogan in the school’s gymnasium: “Run, jump, shout, and make noise but do not sin.”
This slogan, a quote from the school’s founder, St. John Bosco, as part of his Preventive System of educating and forming young people, reflects the values and principles that the school stand for. It serves as a reminder to the students to live their lives to the fullest, to be joyful and exuberant, but to always remain true to their faith and morals.
As I reflect on these words, I am filled with a sense of longing and gratitude for the nurturing environment that the Educative Pastoral Community (EPC) at Don Bosco Technical Institute of Makati provides to shape the youth into embodiments of ‘Good Christians and Upright citizens’.
The essence of thisbyword speaks to the vibrant energy and spirited enthusiasm of youth, encouraging them to embrace life with zest and vitality while staying true to their moral compass.
It is a reminder that youthful exuberance and joy can coexist harmoniously with values of integrity and righteousness for navigating the complexities of adolescence and young adulthood.
Reading about the ethos and guiding principles of the Preventive System of Don Bosco, I am truly touched by the wisdom and compassion inherent in this approach to education.
The emphasis on nurturing the holistic development of young individuals, fostering not just academic excellence but also character formation rooted in love, faith, and service, is a beacon of light in a world often marked by superficial pursuits and fleeting pleasures.
As I ponder deeper, I am struck by profound nostalgia for my youth and the pivotal moments of growth and self-discovery that shaped me into the person I am today.
I realise that the values imparted by the Salesians are precisely what I yearned for during my teenage years, a time marked by uncertainty, curiosity, and the thirst for meaning and purpose.
Had I been exposed to such a nurturing and values-driven educational system at the impressionable age of thirteen, I believe my journey of self-discovery and personal growth would have been enriched immeasurably.
The importance of instilling values of goodness, compassion, and integrity in young minds at an early age cannot be overstated, as these formative years lay the foundation for the kind of adults and citizens they will become.
As I contemplate the present generation of youth, I am hopeful that they will have the opportunity to benefit from an educative system as transformative and empowering as the one at Don Bosco Technical Institute of Makati.
In a world constantly evolving and presenting new challenges to young people, the need for an education system that not only imparts knowledge but also cultivates moral strength, resilience, and empathy has never been more crucial.
I hope that today’s youth will have access to environments that foster growth, self-discovery, and a deep sense of social responsibility.
The Salesian Educative Pastoral Community model serves as a reminder of the profound impact that an education focused on holistic development and valuesbased learning can have on shaping the leaders and visionaries of tomorrow.
May they be guided by the same principles of goodness, integrity, and service that have enriched the lives of countless individuals and communities, paving the way for a brighter and more compassionate future.
As I explored the campus, I felt a sense of peace and tranquillity.
The visual art that surrounded me seemed to vibrate with Godly messages of love, kindness, and compassion.
Every corner of the school was adorned with visual art that communicated a message of positivity, faith, and love.
From the intricate wood carvings to the stunning ceramic sculptures of Mary and Jesus, each piece of art served as a reminder of the school’s dedication to fostering creativity and nurturing the spirits of its students.
It was as if the walls were filled with the prayers and blessings, the inspiration and motivation, of all who had walked through its halls, leaving a lasting imprint on anyone who visited or stayed.
Visual art is a precious gift from God, a feast for the eyes that nourishes the soul and enriches our lives in ways that words alone cannot. It is a language that speaks to our hearts, minds, and spirits.
And, in the case of this Salesian school, visual art serves as a powerful tool for shaping young minds, fostering creativity, and instilling positive values that will last a lifetime.
Looking forward to next week’s article, “The Beauty of Rainbows: Seeing Colour in Life’s Storms”, I shall be sharing with you all the ways we can see colours and light even in the darkest of times.
Let’s continue to explore the world around us with open eyes and open hearts, embracing the beauty and wonder that surrounds us each day.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the New Sarawak Tribune.
