In an era where digital content dominates, the ArtWalk 2.0 event stands as a testament to the enduring power of traditional art. Held at Embarcadero, the event brought together artists, hobbyists, and enthusiasts, providing them with an opportunity to connect, create, and celebrate artistic expression.
The Art Walks were organized by Bridgewalk Café in coordination with Ms. Sharla Macli-ing Ngayodan, a visual artist from Baguio. The first Art Walk took place in December 2024, followed by Art Walk 2.0, which was still organized by Bridgewalk Café in collaboration with Rebecca Co and Adam Redoblado, while continuing to feature Ms. Sharla.
The event’s mission was clear—to encourage creativity, imagination, and self-expression while fostering a strong sense of artistic community. More than just an event, ArtWalk 2.0 became a safe space for artists and non-artists alike to explore their creativity, unwind from the pressures of daily life, and immerse themselves in the joy of making art.
One of the participants in ArtWalk 2.0 was Jamyl Atasha Rodrigueza, a 21-year-old artist from Bicol University. For Rodrigueza, painting has always been a deeply personal journey. She has been painting since she was six or seven years old, inspired by a unique piece her mother created—a butterfly with a human head.
“My mother’s painting was the first thing that truly fascinated me. I was young, but I remember being in awe of how art could mix reality and imagination,” she shared.
For Rodrigueza, art is more than just a hobby—it is an outlet, a form of relaxation, and a means of self-discovery. As a university student, she faces the daily challenges of academic work, and painting serves as a way to unwind from the stress.
Rodrigueza specializes in watercolor, but she also works with wash, acrylic, and poster paint. However, she does not prefer oil paints due to their texture and drying process.
“I love watercolor because of its unpredictability. The way colors blend and bleed into one another makes every piece unique,” she explained.
Her reason for joining ArtWalk 2.0 was simple: to learn and grow as an artist. She saw the event as a chance to broaden her horizons, improve her techniques, and connect with fellow artists.
“These events are inspiring. They allow us to see different styles, interact with other artists, and appreciate the diversity in artistic expression,” she said.
Co emphasized that the event was open to everyone, not just professional artists. She believes that art should be accessible to all, highlighting its therapeutic and expressive benefits.
“We wanted to create an event where anyone—whether they’ve been painting for years or are just starting—can come and enjoy the process of making art,” Co shared.
Promoting Inclusive and Creative Experience
The idea for ArtWalk 2.0 was first proposed in January, following the success of the inaugural ArtWalk event in November. This year’s edition attracted a diverse mix of participants, with 22 individuals registering through Google Forms and 17 more expressing interest on Facebook.
Although the exact number of attendees remained uncertain, Co noted that the turnout exceeded expectations, as participants arrived in waves throughout the day. The overwhelming response reinforced the growing enthusiasm for accessible art spaces, proving that ArtWalk 2.0 had successfully fostered a welcoming and creative environment for all.
ArtWalk 2.0 is only the beginning. Co shared that they are planning more events throughout the year, including art exhibits showcasing local talent, art markets where artists can sell their work and workshops for younger generations to inspire the next wave of artists
She also mentioned that free art opportunities will continue to be shared online, allowing aspiring artists to participate regardless of their background.
“I was exposed to art at a young age, and I want to provide that same opportunity to others,” Co explained.
Another key figure in ArtWalk 2.0 was Sharla Ngayodan, a visual artist from Baguio City. She was inspired to start ArtWalk sessions in different cities after experiencing the vibrant art community in Baguio.
“I remember walking through Baguio and seeing artists sketching on sidewalks. I was invited to join them, and I loved the sense of community they had,” she recalled.
Ngayodan wanted to bring that same experience to other regions. Through her travels, she has introduced outdoor sketching sessions, allowing people from different cities to embrace the simplicity and joy of sketching in public spaces.
One of the main highlights of ArtWalk 2.0 was its emphasis on outdoor sketching. For Sharla, sketching outside is a stress-free practice that anyone can enjoy, regardless of their skill level.
“All you need is a pen, paper, and time to observe. Instead of taking a photo, sketching helps you truly appreciate your surroundings,” she said.
This philosophy resonated with many participants, as they took their sketchbooks and immersed themselves in the environment, capturing moments through their own artistic styles.
Building Connections Through Art
ArtWalk 2.0 was more than just an art event—it was a celebration of creativity and community. The gathering welcomed individuals from diverse backgrounds, all coming together through a shared passion for artistic expression. Each participant’s work reflected their unique perspectives, resulting in a vibrant display of styles, interpretations, and inspirations.
For Rodrigueza, the most rewarding part of the event was the opportunity to connect with fellow artists. “Seeing how others approach their art is inspiring. It pushes me to try new things and step out of my comfort zone,” she shared.
Ngayodan and Co echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that ArtWalk 2.0 was not only about creating art but also about fostering meaningful connections.
“Art is a personal journey, but it’s also something that brings people together. When we create alongside others, we learn, grow, and inspire each other,” Ngayodan expressed.
Through shared experiences and creative expression, ArtWalk 2.0 became a space where artists could connect, collaborate, and uplift one another—proving that art is just as much about community as it is about the final masterpiece.
ArtWalk 2.0 was not just an art event—it was a celebration of creativity, self-expression, and community. It provided a space for both seasoned artists and beginners to explore their artistic potential, free from judgment or pressure.
With more art exhibits, markets, and workshops planned for the future, ArtWalk 2.0 is just the beginning of what promises to be a thriving and inclusive art movement in the region. Whether you’re an experienced artist or someone just starting out, one thing is clear: There is always space for you in the world of art.| Angela Antivola