2026 Sinclair National Art Competition Officially Launched | Sinclair The New Generation Paint, the flagship paint brand of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies, Inc. (MPCTI), officially launched the 2026 Sinclair National Art Competition last July 31, 2026, at the Sinclair Pro Store in Del Monte, Quezon City. The launch brought together members of the media, artists, gallery professionals, educators, and industry leaders to introduce a nationwide platform dedicated to Filipino creativity, artistic innovation, and the exploration of decorative finishes as a medium for art.
Leading the launch was Inv. Derrick A. Tan, President & CEO of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies, Inc., together with the competition’s distinguished Board of Judges: Mr. Francisco A. Valdecantos, Managing Director of Kape Kesada Art Gallery and Artillera Gallerie; Ms. Arleen Lipana, Visual Artist, Curator, Marketing Strategist, Advertising Consultant, Writer, and Events Producer; Mr. Romeo E. Gutierrez, Painter, Printmaker, and Art Educator; and Mr. Eleazar Abraham “Abe” L. Orobia, Artist, Educator, Curator, Writer, and Cultural Advocate. Their participation underscores the competition’s commitment to bringing together established voices from the Philippine art and creative communities.
Now in its latest edition, the 2026 Sinclair National Art Competition seeks to provide Filipino artists with a national platform to experiment with new materials, techniques, and forms of artistic expression. At the heart of the competition are Sinclair Makaw Microcement Lime Plaster & Effect Paints and Obra Viva, which will serve as the artistic media for participants. Through these materials, artists are encouraged to explore texture, dimension, color, movement, and surface design in creating original works that demonstrate both artistic vision and craftsmanship.
The competition is open to entries from August 1 to December 31, 2026, giving artists nationwide an opportunity to participate and showcase their creativity. It features two categories: Representational Obra (Figurative) and Wall Obra (Non-Representational/Abstract).
The Representational Obra category carries this year’s theme, “Creating Horizons for the New Generation.” Artists are invited to interpret the theme through figurative works that express ideas of hope, culture, family, community, and nation-building. The category encourages artists to translate their perspectives on the future into compelling visual narratives using the competition’s designated artistic media.
Meanwhile, the Wall Obra category focuses on non-representational and abstract expressions designed for wall applications. Participants are challenged to develop creative surface concepts that demonstrate how artistic expression can become an integral part of residential, commercial, and public spaces. Through this category, the competition opens opportunities for artists to explore the relationship between art, architecture, interior design, and the surfaces that shape everyday environments.
The launch also highlighted Sinclair’s continuing commitment to championing Filipino creativity and supporting the development of the local art community. By placing material innovation at the center of the competition, Sinclair aims to encourage artists to discover new possibilities in the way they create, interpret, and present their work.
“Creativity has always been an important part of innovation. Through this competition, we want to allow Filipino artists to explore materials in new ways and express their ideas through a medium that extends beyond traditional artistic surfaces,” said Inv. Derrick A. Tan, President & CEO of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies, Inc.
The works will be evaluated by the distinguished panel of judges, with criteria that recognize artistic excellence, creativity, craftsmanship, technical execution, and effective use of the designated media. Winners will be announced during National Arts Month in February 2027, with winning artists receiving recognition for their creative achievements.
The 2026 Sinclair National Art Competition represents Sinclair’s continuing effort to create meaningful opportunities for Filipino artists while expanding the possibilities of decorative surface design. More than a showcase of artistic talent, the initiative aims to inspire creators to see materials and surfaces in new ways and to contribute fresh perspectives to the evolving relationship between art and the built environment.
The official competition mechanics, registration guidelines, and entry requirements are now available. Artists, designers, art enthusiasts, and creative communities are encouraged to visit www.sinclair.com.ph/decorative/sinclairnationalartcompetition for the complete competition details and requirements, and follow Sinclair The New Generation Paint for official announcements, competition updates, event highlights, and other activities throughout the 2026 Sinclair National Art Competition.
