Jerraine Ruth, affectionately known as Ruth among her fellow artists in Kurit-Lagting and CAP Bicol, is not just a storyteller; she is a weaver of narratives, wielding the transformative power of words to honor cultural heritage, question societal conventions, and spark the flames of positive transformation. While the daylight hours find her diligently fulfilling the role of an Administrative Assistant, the night unveils a different facet of her identity—an artist committed to the literary craft. Ruth's artistic journey had its earliest roots in the rhythmic cadence of dance during her childhood. As she grew, her artistic ventures expanded, but it was during the pandemic that her focus shifted to writing. The literary arts became a sanctuary for releasing bottled emotions and expressing thoughts, providing solace during moments of introversion. Literary Activism and Learning Through Engagement Engaging in forums, symposiums, and talks on socio-political and environmental issues, Ruth extends her literary reach to wider audiences. Participating in these platforms allows her not only to share her causes but also serves as a vital avenue for learning from diverse perspectives, especially regarding women's rights and protection. Despite societal disregard for literary arts and reading, she finds solace in the community of cultural workers and fellow artists striving to make art accessible to all. Acknowledging the prevalence of the "starving artist" stereotype, she sees the potential for art to be a relevant and powerful medium, especially when leveraged through technology to elevate platforms. Reflecting on her most impactful community art project, Ruth recounts the Poem For A Cause PH 2021. Collaborating with fellow Filipino writers and poets, the project aimed to bring hope to Typhoon Odette victims in Siargao. This fundraising activity served as a realization for her, proving that hope matters, and through art, one can instigate a movement and initiate change. Connecting Through Art: Overcoming Introversion Acknowledging her introverted nature, Ruth confesses that warming up to people requires effort on her part. However, the magic of art lies in its ability to connect and build rapport. Through a stroke of conversation, art has the unseen power to foster respect, friendship, and deepen relationships in unique ways. Ruth candidly addresses the challenges of being a budding artist, notably the lack of support and societal marginalization. Breaking free from the "starving artist" stereotype becomes a personal mission. She emphasizes the commercialization of art as an additional challenge, urging the sector to guard against compromising its essence. With a distinctive storytelling style, she effortlessly balances between writing cryptically and directly. Her two signature styles reflect her ability to own her masterpiece, making it an extension of herself. Her art becomes a bridge between personal expression and collaborative, community-driven projects. Preserving Heritage Through Words As Ruth weaves her literary tapestry, every piece becomes a celebration of Filipino heritage. Through her words, she pays homage to literary icons like Francisco Balagtas and the La Solidaridad movement, defying social norms and making a difference. To aspiring artists, Ruth offers a resounding "Padayon! Keep on going." She emphasizes sustainability, encouraging artists to find ways to enjoy their craft, put their best foot forward, and defy the stigma of the "starving artist." Envisioning the Future Looking ahead, Ruth hopes her artistic drive remains steadfast, leaving a lasting imprint on the world of art. Community art will always be a vital part of her life, and she anticipates contributing meaningfully and giving back to the artistic journey she eagerly embraces. In Ruth's world, words are not merely letters on a page; they are vessels of hope, catalysts for change, and a testament to the enduring power of community art. Visit her instagram page here: www.instagram.com/walangtinta # # #
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ArchivesAuthorKurit-Lagting co-founder, Geri Matthew “Choi” Carretero. Choi is a multidisciplinary artist and community development worker. He has exhibited his artworks in various museums and galleries with themes about migration, displacement, and disability. |