La union: A 52-year-old deaf artist uses his artwork to express his emotions, his view of the community, and realities close to his heart. "My art is my voice, and I hope to inspire others that disability is no barrier to success," said Louie Arandia of Bangar, La Union, in a prepared statement on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Arandia's passion for the craft began when he was a child, using pieces of charcoal found around his home. He then took a degree in Fine Arts in Manila to further nurture his talent before returning home to pursue his passion. Arandia created works inspired by his experiences, his community, and his passions.

In the same statement, he mentioned that his paintings Puso ti Agri-Turismo and ELYU reflect his deep love for La Union and celebrate the province's natural beauty, culture, and identity. Ayayaten Ka, the Ilocano phrase for "I love you," conveys the sign language gesture for love, a meaningful reminder that genuine connection goes beyond spoken words, he added.

His Balitok a Dutdot series carries a message of hope and perseverance, underscoring the value of every person's journey. The works encourage viewers to believe in themselves, embrace their unique potential, and pursue their dreams with courage and purpose. Arandia said every artwork is more than a finished canvas; it is his voice, his story, and his way of connecting with people.

SM City La Union stated that Arandia's story reflects the spirit of Art For Everyone, which promotes accessibility, inclusivity, and community-driven creativity by providing artists with a platform to share their talent with a wider audience. "His journey is a testament to art's power to bridge differences, foster understanding, and inspire communities," it added.

A total of 250 artworks by 150 local artists from La Union, including Arandia, are currently featured in the exhibit, with most available for purchase to support the artists and celebrate the province's creativity.