For over a century, women have fought relentlessly for equality, breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes along the way. Though it’s true that progress has been made, we have to face the fact that a palpable divide still persists between genders, albeit in subtler forms.
As the scuffle remains, women continue to seek avenues to amplify their voices and assert their rights, prompting the need for innovative approaches in order to bridge the gap. Like for example, making use of art as a platform—a means Sining Lila Bicol (SLB) adopted, empowering women through creative expression.
Currently headed by Tiffany Sophia Dorothea V. Espinosa, a 22-year-old Bachelor of Performing Arts major in theater student at Bicol University, SLB was established in the midst of the Pista nin Teatrong Bikolnon 2021 as its first five members locked in their commitment in response to Bicol’s longing for an all-women’s theater group.
Fully invested in featuring artworks crafted by and for women, this collective aims to promote a conventional and artistically safe space for women and their rights.
“We at Sining Lila Bicol strive to forge both a conventional and artistic safe space for us women—it is what fuels us to really push through with our craft and empower our voices, ” Espinosa stated.
What began with just five members (as stated earlier) has now blossomed into a thriving community of 23, each member not only an artist but also a passionate advocate in pursuit of absolute gender equality.
“SLB started off with only 5 members, but that doesn’t mean that our impact was any less significant,” Espinosa claimed.
“From there, we grew our ranks, welcoming only those who uphold SLB’s commitment with unwavering dedication. With each new member, our cause grows clearer and our influence more profound,” she added.
Utilizing art as their weapon of choice, SLB orchestrates theatrical plays of great gravity with their hands extending beyond the stage as they further their cause by embarking on community education programs, venturing from barangay to barangay to conduct art workshops, and engaging in education-inclined discussions.
Looking forward, Sining Lila Bicol hopes to further expand both their numbers and influence in an attempt to also amplify their call.
Fun fact: the name “Sining Lila” is derived from the words “sining,” which means “art” in English, and “lila,” the Tagalog term for purple, which has long been recognized as the color of women. Together, they signify the harmony between creativity and womanhood, embodying empowerment through artistic expression. | Kian Kirby F. Florano
Photo: Sining Lila Bicol