Internationally acclaimed Filipino artist Elito Circa, known as "Amangpintor," brought his unique artistry and cultural advocacy to Cortez, Colorado, on November 25, 2024, as part of a cultural exchange program. Amangpintor, renowned for his pioneering "Indigenouism" art movement, conducted a series of workshops, live demonstrations, and cultural sharing sessions at Mesa Elementary School and Cortez Middle School, leaving a lasting impression on students and the community.

The day’s activities began at Mesa Elementary School, where Amangpintor facilitated hand painting workshops and introduced his concept of "Spirit Art" to three sections of students. These sessions emphasized creativity and the use of sustainable materials, seamlessly coordinated with the assistance of Filipino teachers, particularly Gladys Manzano. The workshops aimed to inspire students to explore art as a means of self-expression and to connect with their cultural heritage.

In the afternoon, Amangpintor collaborated with Sara Wendt Parks, an art teacher at Cortez Middle School, to conduct a half-day lecture and workshop. He explained his advocacy for "Indigenouism," which emphasizes using indigenous materials and themes in art. During the Spirit Art session, he encouraged students to work with unconventional materials, such as soy sauce, to create their masterpieces. This innovative approach underscored the accessibility of art and its potential to inspire creativity in any environment.

One of the key highlights of Amangpintor’s visit was a live painting demonstration, where he showcased his hand, finger, and nail painting techniques using only four primary colors: red, yellow, blue, and white. The demonstration, filled with energy and creativity, aimed to ignite students' appreciation for the visual arts while promoting environmental awareness and protection. Amangpintor used this platform to inspire students to see art as a tool for change and a means of connecting with the natural world.

In addition to his workshops and live performance, Amangpintor actively shared Filipino culture through his visual art, fostering a deeper understanding of the Philippines' rich traditions and values. His integration of indigenous materials and themes reflected the Filipino spirit and heritage, providing students with a unique perspective on cultural expression. Through his storytelling and explanations, students learned about the deep connection between Filipino art, nature, and community. By sharing his art and culture, Amangpintor emphasized the importance of preserving cultural identity while fostering mutual respect and understanding between nations.

The entire program was guided by Cathy Cowan, the district's cultural exchange coach - New Teacher Success Coach for Montezuma Cortez School District, who ensured the activities aligned with the broader goals of educational and cultural enrichment in Cortez. The Cortez Cultural Center also played a supportive role, fostering a platform for this significant exchange of artistic and cultural ideas.

Amangpintor’s visit not only gave students hands-on experience but also instilled a deeper appreciation for indigenous art forms, environmental stewardship, and the rich culture of the Philippines. His demonstration of using personal and sustainable materials, combined with his inspiring lectures, served as a call to action for students to embrace creativity, respect diverse cultures, and think critically about art’s role in personal and collective expression.

This initiative underscored the power of cultural sharing through visual arts, proving that art can transcend boundaries, bridge differences, and inspire a global appreciation for creativity and heritage. Amangpintor continues his mission of making art a universal language that connects people, celebrates diversity, and promotes positive change worldwide.