Stars of Hope by Michael Albaño / Batang Pinangga

About "Stars of Hope"

by Michael Albaño / Batang Pinangga

About the artwork

This painting, created by Michael Albano, captures an important moment in the life of a Filipino street child. The image shows the child working intently on a star, carefully crafted from branches of a palm tree. The star is not just an object, but a symbol of resourcefulness and survival in a world often indifferent to the vulnerability of street children. The child watches his work, his hands determined but also gentle, as the star slowly takes shape under his fingers.

The branches of the palm tree, which carry a powerful symbolism of nature and life in Filipino culture, are transformed by the child into something meaningful in an attempt to earn some money. These stars, along with other handmade objects, were offered for sale by Michael and his friends, an attempt to make a living. The painting captures not only the moment of creation, but also the broader reality of struggle and desire for a better life. It reflects the resilience of children who, despite their circumstances, continue to look for ways to shape their future.

Michael Albano, who often incorporates his own experiences into his paintings, captures the complex emotions of hope, struggle and resourcefulness with this work. The star, despite its simplicity, becomes a powerful symbol of the human urge to move forward, even when resources are limited. The painting exudes a sense of vulnerability and strength, in which the simple act of making a star tells a story of perseverance and the desire for a better future.