Arjen Abubakar is a 16-year-old artist who showcases the culture, tradition, and arts of the Cuyonon Tribe in his artworks. He started painting as early as 13-years-old, and as of writing, has already made 35 paintings and sold 13 pieces. According to him, his tribe was what inspired his first art piece.
In 2018, he was invited to join an art contest and exhibit, which turned out to be an opportunity for him. After an interested individual bought his piece from the exhibit, Abubakar realized that he could sell more of his artworks to help his parents with the finances while also promoting his tribe’s cultural heritage. Since then, the young Cuyonon artist started selling more paintings featuring not only his own tribe, but also other tribes in Palawan. In fact, all of his artworks promote the support and appreciation of their customs and heritage.
According to Abubakar, his favorite painting thus far is what he named ‘Kultura mo, Bayan ko,’ which symbolizes his tribe. This painting can be viewed at the Palawan Heritage Center in Puerto Princesa Palawan.
The press release by DSWD Field Office MIMAROPA revealed that Abubakar is currently a Grade 11 student of the Arts and Design Strand in Palawan National School and aspires to be an architect in the future.