Manila, June 12 -- Art, in many forms, doesn't just tell stories. They inspire, heal, depict cultural heritage, and express messages.

The Philippine News Agency spoke with five young women artists to know about their passion and what they're fighting for through their works.

Figurative oil painter Alelia Ariola strives to empower individuals, particularly women, to have a voice. She uses earthy tones that reflect raw beauty, strength, humanity, and centers her work on powerful portrayals of women -- fierce and resilient.

Figurative art describes any form of modern art that retains strong references to the real world and particularly to the human figure.

Her desire to empower women led her to form the Girl Gang of Art PH, a creative co...