CATBALOGAN CITY – SSU student and leaf artist Ryan Managaysay already made it big in the visual arts industry as his artwork out of basket ferns went viral online last year. He was, thereafter, featured in various TV shows and news articles.
Many famous personalities expressed their amusement on Managaysay’s artworks when their portraits were carved by Managaysay on dried leaves including the President of the Philippines himself, His Excellency Rodrigo ‘Roa’ Duterte who sent a letter of gratitude to the young artist dated October 9 (20).
In a social media post of Managaysay’s mentor in Samar State University (SSU), Mr. Jhonil Sy Bajado, he expressed that the letter arrived yesterday, March 11 (21), with the signature of the President and a dry seal of his office.
“I wish to convey my heartfelt gratitude for the leaf portrait that you have created and sent to me as a gift. Allow me to extend my goodwill for your thoughtful gesture,” the President stated on the letter.
President Duterte also affirmed that he was impressed by Managaysay’s creativity by carving images on basket fern, locally known as “salikupkop”.
The BSED-Social Studies student continues on sharing his artwork to encourage other artists and inspire others, especially the youth with his artistry.