About me
Millenial artist based in the Philippines. I discovered my potential in painting at age 17 in 2014, finished a Bachelor Degree in Business Economics in 2017. Currently pursuing Bachelor of FIne Arts in UK and looking forward to establish my name in the art world. My dream is to be an influential artist in the world— to inspire and connect people through art.
I grew up in an artistic family, so it's no surprise that I became fascinated by art at a young age. I vividly remember being engrossed in art during my childhood, joining every poster-making or painting competition. My school books were filled with fancy doodles, random scribbles and sketches.
Growing up in a less fortunate family in a deprived area of the Philippines, I faced pressure to create things that could be sold for money. At primary school I made and sold colourful beaded accessories and custom-designed bookmarks. My earnings not only supplemented my daily allowance, but also encouraged me to nurture my creativity and passion for art.
Work / Education
I started university at sixteen years old. Despite art being my first love, I chose a Business Administration course because I believed it was a good all-round degree which would help my employment prospects in the Philippines. Whilst studying, I worked part-time in an art shop owned by Mr. Macky Bongabong, a self-taught artist and entrepreneur who today has become a well known artist across the Philippines. I started by helping to market Macky's artwork. Over time, Macky became a mentor and helped me to develop and hone my own artistic talent. This was a very positive decision, not only for me but also for other people. By being exposed more to the public, I received numerous art commissions that pushed me to continue to improve my craft.
A remarkable event occurred in 2016, when I was able to present my own painting to the newly-elected President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte. I was invited to dinner at the official presidential residence in Manila, Malacanan Palace, together with my mentor Macky and also my sister. At around the same time, we also started conducting art classes due to rising demand from students in Davao City, and also in Singapore. It has been extremely fulfilling to teach art to others, and the response has been overwhelming; to date, around 400 students have taken our classes, which have dramatically raised the profile of Davao City's art scene.
