Jhan Aldrin Carilimdiliman, a Civil Engineering student at the University of San Carlos, is redefining expectations. In the span of a single year, Carilimdiliman has made his mark on the national art scene, winning two prestigious awards. 

Gifted with a remarkable touch and an eye for detail, he tells stories that seamlessly seep through Filipino hearts through his digital art. Carilimdiliman has garnered notable recognition while representing USC, illustrating that engineering students can be just as artistic as they are analytical. 

Carilimdiliman brushed a stroke of genius by bagging 1st runner-up in the 2024 Vision Petron Student Art Competition for the Digital Art Category. Hosted on October 30 in Pasig City, the contest recognized his thought-provoking piece, To-Get-There (shown in the photograph below). As the title suggests, it takes a collective effort, or a “together” effort, to arrive at a shared goal. This powerful piece examined themes of unity and perseverance, leaving a significant impression on both the judges and the spectators.  

Previously, Carilimdiliman unveiled his compelling artwork, Hanapbuhay: Hanap Sining, at the 56th Shell National Students Art Competition held last November 28, 2023 at the Ayala Museum in Makati  City. His poignant piece, which captured the intricacies of Filipino life and celebrated the soul of the Filipino community, won him 3rd place in the Digital Arts category. 

Carilimdiliman’s 2023  feat did not only check off a personal milestone for him, but it also became a source of pride for the entire Department of Civil Engineering, demonstrating the many artistic capabilities that lie within. 

Juggling his way through a field typically characterized by equations and calculations,  Carilimdiliman’s successive artistic victories shatter conventional perceptions of engineering students, uncovering the creativity and adaptability that the University of San Carlos fosters and nurtures. His art captures the ideals, aspirations, and resilience of the Filipino people, showcasing the harmony woven between technical dexterity and vibrant imagination. 

The budding artist’s latest victories shine on the importance of combining skill with commitment. His successes have broadened the possibilities for what a Civil Engineering student can achieve, positively influencing the USC community. 

Many eagerly await the direction his artistic journey will lead him, encouraging other students to follow their distinct passions. 

After all, sometimes it takes just one leap to create your own stroke of genius.

by Chloe Francine Tan Dimaala, with reporting from the USC Department of Civil Engineering