The Sea Feeds Us, The Conflict Starves Us
Artist — Alelia Ariola
Participating in the mural project shifted my perspective completely. I used to see the ocean as something distant, a place for marine life, or a temporary escape where people go to rest and unwind. But the more I learned, especially about what is happening in the West Philippine Sea, the more I realized how deeply connected the ocean is to human lives. It’s not just water—it holds stories of survival, conflict, and community. That changed everything for me.
Public art, for me, is the strongest form of artistic voice. It allows artists to express collective sentiments and bring awareness to issues that affect all of us, especially people from smaller nations like the Philippines and other countries that often face the same struggles. Community art has the power to disrupt silence and open people’s eyes to truths that governments and corporations try to hide.
Journalism and art are a powerful combination for exposing truth. The power of investigative journalism is that it brings depth through verified facts, research, and evidence— strengthening its message and increasing its impact. While many viewers of the art are not directly affected by these issues, and therefore may be unconcerned about them, the inhumanity of the maltreatment persists. The issue of the West Philippine Sea is not just about maritime or territorial claims—it is about the survival of families whose livelihoods depend on fishing. Sometimes we get lost in the bigger picture, but when we choose to zoom in on the smallest details, we begin to see things differently. It brings clarity and begs the question: for whom are we really fighting?
MURAL LOCATION — Silang Cavite, Phillipines
Artist Bio —
Alelia Ariola is a self-taught painter who was born in Silang, Cavite, Philippines in 1986. She is renowned for her dynamic and courageous artistic expressions and is the founder of Girl Gang of Art Ph, a vibrant community dedicated to celebrating and empowering women through creative expression.
Ariola's art resonates with a profound feminist ethos, capturing the raw and multifaceted narratives of women and society. Her paintings and murals amplify women’s voices, particularly those of darker-skinned women, highlighting their strength and resilience. Central to Ariola’s artistic mission is empowerment, as she seeks to encourage individuals to speak up for themselves and others.
Working in oil on canvas, Ariola uses earthy tones that symbolically reflect the inherent beauty and virtues of humanity. Through her bold compositions and thought-provoking imagery, her art functions not only as a vehicle for aesthetic expression, but also as a potent tool for social commentary and advocacy. Ariola invites audiences to embrace their inner strength and celebrate the rich diversity and power inherent in women's experiences.