BukSU student wins 3rd Place in Italy’s 10th International Art & Design Competition

Marianne Queen Estrosos, a Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Social Studies student of Bukidnon State University (BukSU) was named the Top 3 winner under the Painting & Drawing Category during the 10th International Art & Design Competition 2026, announced by the Accademia Riaci on February 28, 2026, an international institution school group of arts, design & crafts based in Florence, Italy.

Accademia Riaci is an institution composed of a team of teachers, representing the best Italian artists in Florence. “The competition aims to contribute to the revitalization and internationalization of the entire Italian Art, Design, and Crafts industries by discovering new artists, fostering their talents, and, in the meantime, promoting study abroad in Italy.”

This year’s competition theme focus is “Create your Art Work with Characteristics of Italian Renaissance.”

Estrosos’ drawing was based on studies of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.

“My inspiration came from studying Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and other Italian Renaissance portraits, particularly their focus on realism, balance, and human emotion.”

“I reimagined it by placing my own face as the main subject while keeping the calm mood, balanced composition, and classical atmosphere that are characteristics of Renaissance art. Through the artwork, I aimed to connect my modern identity as a young artist with the timeless ideals of the Renaissance,” she added.

The Office of the Vice President for Culture, Arts, Sports, and Student Services (OVPCASSS) released a statement on this achievement, noting that Estrosos’ success shone a light on the university’s creative community.

“This international recognition not only celebrates Estrosos’ dedication and artistic excellence but also showcases the creative potential of BukSUan students on the global stage. Her achievement serves as an inspiration to young artists, proving that passion, discipline, and cultural appreciation can bring local talent to worldwide recognition,” the OVPCASSS stated.

Before this global recognition, Estrosos represented Region X in the national Human Rights Poster-Making Contest and was declared the nationwide champion, conducted by the Commission on Human Rights on December 3, 2025. (BukSU – Information Unit)