Interfaith Leaders and Artists Open “Harmony in Co-Existence” Art Exhibit in Manila

As part of the global observance of the World Interfaith Harmony Week, the Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple opened a moving art exhibit that celebrates unity, hope, and shared humanity across faiths. Titled “Harmony in Co-Existence: Everlasting Light and Hope,” the exhibit gathered religious leaders, artists, and community members in a shared expression of peace through art.

Held at the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery in Manila, the exhibit features the renowned one-stroke calligraphy of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan, alongside works by guest artists from diverse backgrounds, including National Artist Imelda Cajipe-Endaya. The collection brings together amateur, emerging, professional, and internationally recognized artists—each contributing a unique voice to a collective message of harmony.

The exhibit was organized in partnership with Religions for Peace, UniHarmony Partners Manila and the Buddha’s Light International Association Philippines, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering dialogue, respect, and understanding among different faith traditions.

A Message of Light, Wisdom, and Compassion

During the opening program, Venerable Abbess Miao Jing addressed participants with a heartfelt message centered on inner peace as the foundation of harmony in society. She reminded attendees that lasting peace begins within the individual and is expressed through everyday acts of compassion.

“Harmony in the world begins with harmony in our own hearts,” Abbess Miao Jing shared. “When we cultivate kindness, wisdom, and compassion within ourselves, we naturally bring light to others and to our communities.”

She emphasized that art serves as a powerful bridge among cultures and religions, offering a shared language that transcends belief systems.

“Through art, we are reminded that despite our differences, we share the same hopes—for peace, dignity, and a better future for the next generation,” she said.

Venerable Miao Jing also encouraged participants to see harmony not as an abstract ideal, but as a daily practice rooted in mutual respect and service to others.

Head Abbess, Venerable Yung Guang thanked the artists for their hard work. She said that through them, many different groups get to know different arts. 

The artworks on display explore themes of light, resilience, faith, and hope—serving as visual reminders that diversity, when embraced, enriches society and strengthens peace.

The “Harmony in Co-Existence: Everlasting Light and Hope” exhibit remains open to the public until March 8, 2026, inviting all to reflect, connect, and be inspired by the shared values that unite humanity across faiths.

 Voices of Faith, Diversity, and Harmony

Adding to the spirit of unity, Father Dionito Cabillas of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente, one of the guest speakers during the opening, reflected on the deep connection between faith, art, and the human experience. He expressed gratitude and inspiration for the exhibit and its message.

“I am inspired by you,” Father Cabillas said, addressing the organizers and artists. “We have always valued art and music—everything that reflects our struggle as a people.”

“The heart and the mind go together,” he added. “They cannot be separated.”

Father Cabillas also underscored the responsibility shared by faith communities to move beyond dialogue and into action. He emphasized that interfaith partnerships are rooted in mutual respect and a common purpose.

“As partners, we continue to propagate coexistence,” he said. “We give one another equal opportunities to work together in serving God and the people.”

Also delivering an opening message was Jenny Lee Bonto, Executive Director of the Artists Welfare Project Inc. (AWPI). Speaking as an artist herself, Bonto expressed heartfelt gratitude to the participating artists for generously sharing their talents, time, and devotion.

She noted that the exhibit was a meaningful way to welcome the Year of the Rooster, with each artwork reflecting sincerity, discipline, and hope. Bonto commended the artists for creating works that not only celebrate artistic excellence, but also convey messages of peace, harmony, and shared humanity—values deeply aligned with the spirit of World Interfaith Harmony Week.