Zorrick Enriquez honoured in Dangal ng Lahi Awards for visual arts

By Nimfa Estrellado Zorrick Enriquez during the awards ceremony, where he received the 6th Dangal ng Lahi Awards for visual arts and art ins...

By Nimfa Estrellado

Zorrick Enriquez honoured in Dangal ng Lahi Awards for visual arts

Zorrick Enriquez during the awards ceremony, where he received the 6th Dangal ng Lahi Awards for visual arts and art instructor at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino, Salinas Drive, Lahug, Cebu City, which took place on November 28, 2023.

CALABARZON - Zorrick Enriquez, or "Z," a Batangas-based contemporary visual artist, has joined a prestigious list of Filipino creatives after being honoured in the 6th Dangal ng Lahi Awards for visual arts and art instructor at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino, Salinas Drive Lahug, Cebu City, which took place on November 28, 2023.

He joined other notable award recipients this year, including actor and brand ambassador Baron Geisler for Most Versatile Actor in the Philippine Showbiz, Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) Cebu for broadcasting, and Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado, who was named Man of Influence and Outstanding Governor of the Year, among the notable recipients from different parts of the Philippines at the recently held prestigious awards ceremony.

The event was attended by over 200 of the country's noted personalities, including politicians, celebrities, and influential business leaders. The diverse guest list created an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation as attendees eagerly networked and engaged in thought-provoking conversations throughout the event.

The award recognises Enriquez’s contribution to the arts and his efforts in promoting cultural development in the region. As a dedicated advocate for the preservation of traditional arts and crafts, Enriquez has successfully organized numerous exhibitions and workshops to showcase local talents and foster artistic growth.Community service is another aspect of Enriquez's work, as he has volunteered his time and expertise to teach art classes to underprivileged youth in the area.

6th Dangal ng Lahi Awards

His recent community initiative involved partnering with other local organizations, with the joint effort of the Autism Society Philippines and the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc., together with the Manila Clock Tower Museum, in cooperation with the Department of Tourism Culture and Arts of Manila, Open Hearts Foundation, Let's Spread Love Community, and the Caloocan City Pinagbuklod Lions Club, to provide art therapy sessions for children on the autism spectrum in celebration of National Children's Month.

He has also been a resource speaker for various conferences, seminars on inclusive education and the importance of art, outreach programs, and community engagement. He has also shared his expertise with various organizations and institutions.

Through these initiatives, he has helped empower and inspire the next generation of artists, making a lasting impact on the community. His unwavering commitment to the arts has had a significant impact on the cultural landscape of the Philippines.

Accepting the award, Enriquez credited his family, especially his wife, who is also an artist like him, for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout his artistic journey. He expressed gratitude for their constant inspiration and collaboration, which have played a crucial role in his success. Enriquez believes that art has the power to bring people together and create positive change, and he is dedicated to continuing his work in promoting artistic expression and fostering a sense of community.

"This award is more than just a recognition of my art; it's a testament to the power of art to transform lives and make a difference in the world. I am humbled and honored to receive this award, and it motivates me to push boundaries and explore new artistic horizons. I hope to use this platform to inspire others to embrace their creativity and use art as a tool for social change."

“In the last few tumultuous years, I have gone from resource speakership to demonstrating art in schools and community centers, hoping to ignite a passion for creativity in young minds. This award reaffirms my belief in the transformative power of art and encourages me to continue advocating for its importance in education and society as a whole."

As members of Le Familia Art Group, Grupo Sining Batangueño, and Pintakha Art Society, Enriquez received praise for engagement and encouragement from these art organizations for his dedication to promoting creativity in young minds. The recognition from these esteemed groups further solidifies his impact and influence in advocating for the importance of art in education and society, inspiring him to push even harder for the integration of artistic expression in various communities.

"I am one of a small group of local artists who make a living doing what I love: creating and teaching art." "So I consider myself fortunate," he remarked. “Being awarded this prize is like the icing on the cake and a super honour when you think of the locals' immense artistic talent," he added.

He also won first place in the Professional Category at the Ayala Mall Solenad 3 Nuvali Sta Rosa Laguna, Battle of the Painters. His artistic skills and ability to work quickly impressed the judges and fellow artists alike. This achievement further solidified his reputation as a talented and accomplished painter in the art community.

Battle of the Painters

Enriquez’s family, born and raised in Batangas, is steeped in art. His father, Ricardo Enriquez, is also a talented artist. Living with nature, Enriquez says the sky and landscape fuel his artistic energy.

The majority of Enriquez's well-known artwork depicts seascapes, landscapes, or skyscapes as the primary subject or theme of the piece. His work has garnered a lot of attention over the years. He is the perfect example of an artist who is continually growing spiritually and is engaged in discovery, learning, and development.

His works are known for their vibrant colors and bold strokes, which reflect his unique perspective on the world around him. Through his art, he wants to show people how beautiful nature is and how important it is to keep it safe for future generations.

When asked about the artists who have had the most influence on his art career, he named Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Rothko from the international scene, as well as René Robles, Sanso, Lino Acasio, and Nante Carandang from the local scene, citing their styles and personalities as the reason.

Z is a former resident artist at Shangri-la's Jen Manila. He also taught art at the Artist's Academy of Global Knowledge, Philippines. He is also the art director of Grupo Sining Batangueño in Batangas City. He also serves as the artistic director of the Pintakha Art Society. He also belongs to organizations like GACCE USA, the Museum de Pacis, Daloy - Likha International, and Philippine Pastel Artists.

His talent can't be missed, especially since he has won so many awards and been written about in so many articles, magazines, and books.

On February 27, 2022, he was awarded the award for "Outstanding Artist of the Year 2022" by the International Icon Awards. In 2021, the government of the province of Batangas gave him the "Batangas Artist Award for Visual Arts."

It's funny to think that Zorrick, a well-known and famous artist, is a true disciple not only in art but also in movies. He is also an actor in Filipino independent films. God's graces upon him are truly numerous, ranging from painting to mastery of many other hidden skills.

In 2011, director Joel Lamangan gave him the award for "Best Supporting Actor" in the film "Sa Mata ng Bata," despite the fact that he was one of the people with less public recognition.

With so much natural talent and success, what else could Zorrick P. Enriquez wish for?

Regardless of this accomplishment, if you look closely, you'll notice that Zorrick's artwork always has a red balloon flying freely in the sky or on the beach because his philosophy is "Eyes on the Sky, Feet on the Earth." No matter how far he has come or will come, he remains and will remain humble.

Artwork