This Upcoming International Art Exhibit Lets You Help the Environment by Creating Postcards
January 9, 2026 by Andrea Posadas for When in Manila
Acts of kindness are one of the most fulfilling ways to kick off the new year. No matter how caught up we may become in our personal goals and preparations, we can always set aside some time to give back to local communities and the causes they advocate for.
If doing more good deeds is one of your resolutions for 2026, you can start by letting your compassion and creativity shine at the If Trees Could Talk International Art Biennale. Every two years, the Center for Art, New Ventures, and Sustainable Development (CANVAS) and the Tumba-tumba Children’s Museum of Philippine Art host this meaningful collaboration for international artists across all generations.
Photo: Marahuyo Art Projects, Chad Montero/Instagram
Since 2024, If Trees Could Talk has championed sustainability, environmental action, and social change through community-oriented exhibits. Now, in its second year, the project is opening the floor for creatives and storytellers to spark discussions on environmental issues through art—specifically, postcards.
On November 15, 2025, If Trees Could Talk launched its global call for postcards in light of its upcoming exhibit in February this year. Here’s why you should contribute to this inclusive cause, while submissions are still open:
An Art Showcase for All Ages
Everyone’s stories and ideas have a place at the If Trees Could Talk International Art Biennale. The project’s organizers are encouraging children and the young at heart from all over the world to present their art, especially when the environmental exhibit opens to the public next month.
Each featured artwork strives to answer the question, “If trees could talk, what would they say?” Moreover, the initiative invites contributors to give nature its own voice, story, and purpose through vivid imagery and symbolism. You aren’t just submitting a postcard, but also sharing your own perspectives on current environmental issues and what we must do to resolve them.
In an age of climate crises and extreme natural calamities, If Trees Could Talk reminds us of our duty to live harmoniously with the environment as it supports our livelihoods. This year’s theme, “Conversations Across Roots and Borders,” inspires various local and international communities to “cultivate a growing forest of ideas” where conversations on humanity and eco-friendly living can thrive.
Batangas has been the project’s host city since its inaugural year. Participating artists, advocates, and organizations come together at the Tumba-tumba Children’s Museum to discuss and reflect on their contributions to the cause. The exhibit also helps deepen the public’s understanding of Filipino history and culture through various artistic outlets.
If Trees Could Talk’s open call for postcards, in particular, inspires children to let their imaginations take flight (or “take root,” rather) and tell stories that spotlight the environment. The initiative aligns with CANVAS’s primary mission: to champion children’s literacy and Filipino narratives through diverse platforms, such as visual art.
The biennial exhibit also partners with local communities to hold film screenings, book-giving sessions, and workshops that highlight the project’s environmental advocacy.
How to Submit a Postcard
There’s still time for you to create a thoughtful postcard and send it to the If Trees Could Talk team for its exhibit this February. If you’re a passionate artist who wants to showcase your skills and lend a helping hand to the environment, this is your chance to do both wholeheartedly.
You can mail your physical postcards to the If Trees Could Talk International Art Biennale at this address:
The Center for Art, New Ventures and Sustainable Development (CANVAS)
1 Upsilon Drive Extension, corner Zuzuarregui Street
Barangay Matandang Balara, Quezon City, Philippines 1119
If you prefer to submit a digital copy of your work, you can also email it to postcards@canvas.ph. The biennial exhibit’s website and Instagram account feature contributions from the first exhibit, which you can use as inspiration for your contribution.
You can submit as many outputs as you’d like, as long as they align with the event’s theme and guidelines.
