For nearly four decades, Kulay sa Tubig has been a defining force in Philippine watercolor. As the longest-running and most prestigious watercolor competition in the Philippines, it has championed Filipino artists, nurtured emerging talent, and helped elevate watercolor as a respected and celebrated art form.
Founded in 1983 through the vision of Mrs. Araceli R. Salas, Founder of Gallery Genesis, Kulay sa Tubig was created to give watercolor the recognition it deserved and to provide unknown and emerging artists with an opportunity to be discovered and celebrated. Over the years, the competition has helped launch and nurture the careers of numerous artists who began as little-known talents and went on to become prominent and celebrated names in the Philippine art scene. More than a competition, Kulay sa Tubig was founded to create opportunities for unknown and emerging artists—a platform where Filipino talent from across the country could be discovered, recognized, and celebrated.
Now in its 38th year, thousands of artists continue to submit their works, with only a select few earning a place in the competition and vying for the prestigious distinction of being named among the Top 5 Philippine Watercolorists.
The exhibition has also enjoyed the support of an esteemed roster of media partners, including Tatler Philippines, The Philippine Star, The Manila Times, The Manila Bulletin, When in Manila, The Philippine Daily Inquirer, Metro Style Magazine, Daily Tribune, and many more. Their support has helped bring greater visibility to the participating artists while contributing to a wider appreciation of Philippine watercolor.
Kulay sa Tubig is a legacy of discovery, opportunity, and artistic excellence—a continuing celebration of Filipino creativity and the enduring beauty and possibilities of watercolor.
This year, the 38th Kulay sa Tubig Annual Watercolor Exhibition and Competition will be held on September 12, 2026, at the 1/F Opus Mall, Bridgetown Estate, Quezon City. The exhibition will run until September 23, 2026, showcasing the exceptional works of this year’s 100 competing artists and continuing a legacy that has helped shape generations of Filipino watercolorists.
