The Art and Work of Connie Cabalar

November 13, 2015March 16, 2016 / Jennifer Bichara / Leave a comment

Maria Conception Talinao, aka Connie Cabalar is what you call a traditional realist visual artist. Her goal is to be as realistically as she can be on color choices, subject matter, and what type of brush strokes she applies to the canvas. It is her aim to represent the art subject clearly so that viewer would know what they are looking at. Her choice of medium is in charcoal, pastel, acrylic, and oil. Her fave’s are in portraiture, landscape art, figures, still life, and sometimes, she dabbles in abstract.

Here is an introduction to the artist where Connie shares the story of her art journey, artistic voice and lastly, her inspiration:

Connie was born in Makati City on December 8, 1976 but grew up in Sta. Ana, Taguig City. Her art beginnings started for her at an early age. Born out of poverty, she used art with the intention to divert her mind from hunger and the realities of a hard life.

She would have given anything to get into Fine Arts in college but like most other Filipino youngsters whose families faced financial setbacks; she had to give her dream up and follow a different path. She then enrolled at the Pasig Catholic College and took a course in Business Administration major in computer management. While in college, she had to work to support her studies and slowly forgot about her love of art.

But in 2011, art came creeping back to her— badgering her to give it one more try. She was one of those people who have always identified themselves as an artist. So no matter how hard they try to go the normal route of what’s life expect them to do, they will always find a way to do what they are passionate about.

Her hardest challenge is not getting the formal training and education in fine arts. However, at the same time; it serves as an inspiration. Every time there’s a new trial for her, she is pushed to excel. Whenever she is faced with another blank canvas, there’s always that dare to come up with something better than her previous work. In the back of her mind, she feels the fulfillment of finishing the painting with a sense of pride which inspires her even more.

Different artists may have different sources of fulfillment in what they do but for her, the greatest reward is when she sees and hears people appreciate her work after hours and effort that she invested in her craft are all worth the time.

Connie is living her dream. However, her ultimate wish is to be recognized for her art and would ultimately like to inspire others to follow their dream. She said, when she becomes an established artist, she wishes to give back through outreach works and free workshops. Because for her undying service, this will be the greatest accomplishment and that is sharing what God has given to her.

She is the current seating president of Filipino Artist Realist Movement (FA:RM). She has participated in many art group shows since she began her art journey. Last March 2014, she had her first solo exhibit called “PassionArtility” – Art Association of the Philippines-Kanlungan ng Sining.

***A Selection of Connie Cabalar’s Art Masterpieces***

(Please click on each image to view an enlarged version)

Connie Cabalar, Maria Conception Talinao, Charcoal, Pastel, Acrylic, Oil, Portraits, Landscape, Figures, Still Life, Art, Artist, ArtPH, Artworks, Beautiful, Colour, Color, Colorist, Contemporary Art, Contemporary Artist, Creative, Filipina Artist, Filipina Painter, Filipino Art, Fineart, Gallery Art, Oil on Canvas, Oil Paintings, Paint, Painter, Painting, Paintings, Visual Artist, Wall Art, Artist Feature

Title: Raising Future Guardians Size: 5ft x 4ft

Title: “Lemony Fresh” Medium: Oil Size: 24”x30”

Title: Untouchable Medium: Oil Size: 30”x24”

Title: Apple or Lime? Medium: Oil Size: 24”x36”

POPE JOHN PAUL II

Title: Koi Medium: Pastel Size: 16”x11”

Title: Meow Medium: Oil Size: 24”x30”

Title: Diving 10-1 Medium: Oil on Canvas Size: 24″x30” By: Connie Cabalar

Title: Kingfisher Medium: Oil Size: 20”x24”

Title: Agahan Medium: Pastel Size: 16”x11”

Title: “Dine-In” Medium: Oil Size: 24”x26”

Title: “Pope Francis” Medium: Oil on Canvas Size: 15″ x 20″

Title: “The Unexpected” Medium: Acrylic on Canvas Size: 33″x 48”

Title: Chess Piece Medium: Pastel Size: 18”x12”

Title: “The Unexpected” Medium: Acrylic on Canvas Size: 33″x 48”

Title:” G-Violet ” Medium: Oil on Canvas Size: 18″ x 12”

Title: Gandalf Medium: Pastel Size: 24″x 20”

Images used with permission.

Marilyn “Tiya DK” Kirby Artist Journey And Her Comeback

March 25, 2015March 25, 2015 / Jennifer Bichara / Leave a comment

Marilyn “Tiya DK” Kirby’s art journey of becoming an artist is an unfamiliar one. Tiya started experimenting with creativity at the age of twelve as a hidden hobby until her father encouraged her to see her talent as more than just a past-time.

Her painting became a therapy which helped her blossom to one promising artist. Her bright and bold colors, shapes, and curves have caught people’s attention in the Washington D.C. area. This gave her the opportunity to showcase her talent in venues such as The Library of Congress (LOC) and The Wing Luke Museum. Her medium of choice is mostly acrylic paint on large canvasses using brushes, fingers, and different tools to give that 3D dimensional effect in all her art works.

As she was thriving as an upcoming Filipino-American artist, an unspeakable tragedy happened to her father–a senseless act of violence. Her colorful world became dark as she suffered insurmountable grief for a long period of time. Her work as an artist and painter froze.

And only now, is she beginning her journey to a new stage of her life. She plans for a comeback as an artist to paint more, have more shows, and share her stories through her art and writing. Her ultimate goal is to have her manuscript turned into a film so she can share her experiences and make others be more aware of these issues.

This Q&A shows how Tiya’s challenges of her art journey and comeback helped her become a better artist. Enjoy!

We will start the interview with who are you and what do you do as an artist?

I am……a young, free-spirited artist with hopes, dreams and ambition. When it comes to art I have no limitations and boundaries. I express my emotions and feelings through creative expressions, typically on canvas and on paper.

Marilyn “Tiya DK” Kirby, is Tiya DK your nickname?

“Marilyn” is my government name (lol) and “Tiya” is the nickname I got in middle school. “DK” stands for my middle and last names. It made sense to me to keep both and have a separate name for my art.

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What is your art style?

My art style is mostly abstract and it’s free flowing. I do as I feel and once I get into my zone that’s when I feel most free and untouchable. Most of my work is abstract and on large canvases with mostly acrylic paint. Some of the other media I use to give different textures are fabric paint, markers, glitter. I texturize with various paint brushes, finger tips and other tools to create 3-D effects. All art pieces have a story/theme behind the work or a symbolic meaning which makes it more real and fun to discuss.

Tell me about your most significant art exhibit at the LOC (Library of Congress)

In May of 2013, I was asked to display artwork for The Library of Congress, Washington, DC for the Asian Pacific Islander Art Exhibit Archive. The theme was adoption. I had the opportunity to showcase new artwork and I decided to paint a gay couple with an adopted child. Washington, D.C., had recently passed the law for same sex marriage, so I thought it would be a great idea to creatively express that gay couples should have the same equal rights as heterosexual’s to adopt children. It was a good conversation piece.

The Library of Congress, Washington, DC. Original Artwork Exhibit, Submitted 2013

Earlier, in 2011, The Library of Congress asked me to be a featured guest to speak on a panel and display artwork in their showcase. The panel discussion included other adult adoptees and we discussed the different struggles of being adopted and what challenges we faced growing up. It was an honor to be a guest and it was an incredible and humbling experience to be part of the panel discussion.

The Library of Congress, Washington, DC. Original Artwork Exhibit, Submitted 2011 – Photograph by Byron Curry

You mentioned your art works were also showcased at the Wing Luke Museum, tell me about this experience?

Yes. Lorial Crowder, who started the Filipino Adoptee Networks (FAN), advised that I try submitting my work for the exhibit and I was excited it was chosen. The Wing Luke Museum is located on the west coast in Seattle, WA. Staff was looking for various adoptees who are artists to showcase their artwork for their exhibit opening. The work had to be judged to be approved for the showcase. I was selected and had my artwork hang for a few months. This opportunity gave me good exposure and an opportunity to share artworks with other adoptees.

Looking at your previous works, I see a stage play, “Conversations About HER” – Is this based on a screenplay?

Tim Odom is an amazing writer (and entrepreneur) who wrote the book, “Conversations About HER” and then turned the book into a stage play. It was set in an art gallery and it had a very artistic approach with a musical flare. His production staff researched different artists and asked if I would be willing to hang some of my work on their set. The play took place at the George Washington University Theater in Washington, D.C.

Tiya DK had the opportunity to display original artwork to create the feeling of an art gallery in the stage play set, “Conversations About HER” a Tim O. Production Event.

You say a percentage of proceeds of art sales and art works are donated to various charities and venues. 1st, how much percentage do you give?

It varies depending on the Venue.

2nd, name a few artworks you have donated?

I have donated artworks to several entities over the years. A lot of my original sketch books have been donated to the Library of Congress for their research and studies (Archive Department) and they also have several original paintings.

I’ve also donated artwork to the Prince Georges County Department for Child Welfare in MD; their fund-raiser was a great opportunity to meet foster-care children and adopted children with their new families. It was an honor to do an art piece that displayed a theme about adoption because I am also a product of that.

In addition, I’ve donated artwork to the Komen Breast Cancer fund-raising event, Dress For Success, The Sasha Bruce Foundation, and more.

Last, what are the charities you donated to and why did you choose them?

All the charities I have donated art proceeds to are organizations that help people get back on their feet: Children in foster-care & adoption, Cancer Fund Raising Events (attached below), HIV/AIDS, and other humanitarian organizations.

You have some of your artworks displayed in an independent film. Wow! Which are they and what film is this?

A friend of mine who is a screenwriter and an independent film producer, Angel Sepulveda (Sepulveda Films), wrote a manuscript and shot the movie. He needed artwork for the set and reached out to me. I was honored to have some of my work hang in his production. I had three of my large paintings hanging on his walls (Artwork Used: Intertwined Lovers, Writer’s Block, and Rainy Miami). The film has not been released yet.

Sepulveda Films, Setting for College Park Film

Featured Artist at The Washington Hilton Hotel, DC.

Looking at your Facebook page, art resume, and website, I noticed they were not updated for quite some time. Is this related to the tragedy of your father? (So sorry for your loss.)

Thank you. Yes, it’s been a very difficult struggle to accept the unexpected loss of my father. You never get over it, you slowly just learn to get used to it, which is an excruciating pain I live with every day. My life has changed dramatically…it will never be the same…so it has definitely set me back; however, I’m slowly bouncing back, and when I do, I’m going to come back even harder! The depth of this tragic experience will definitely affect my work.

Despite your loss, it must be hard for you to create again. How did you pull through? Did you paint during this period or was your painting much darker than you’re colorful bright art pieces?

I thought that was it! I was done because I really thought I had literally lost my mind!!! I was extremely close to my father (I was daddy’s little girl and we also had a common interest through our work in transportation and construction, which made our relationship even richer), so losing him so tragically and unexpectedly tore my world apart and I became depressed. I had no motivation to paint or do anything for a while.

However, with time and also having such a great support team with my friends, family and even my job, I was able to slowly pull myself back together. I found myself getting back into doing some art pieces and actually shocked myself. I think my art now is deeper, more mature, more emotional, and richer. Attached is one of the new pieces I did for the one-year anniversary of his death.

Getting back to doing some art has been very therapeutic for me and it has helped me express my loss. I don’t think my work is as colorful (vibrant) and happy, but I still use bright colors…just in a different manner. Is it darker? Mmmmm…Yes, I would say so. I guess you could call it the “Dark Period”.

New Artwork 2015, Medium: Acrylic | Title: “Fallen Hero Down Under”
(One Year Anniversary Tribute Artwork in Honor of my father, Dr. Ronald F. Kirby)

Reading the article, it was stated your parents adopted you and your brother in the Philippines. Has this influenced your creative style? At what age did you discover and started exploring your creativity?

Yes. My brother and I were and still are very blessed we were chosen. I think being chosen aka “adopted” has influenced me to be expressive and feel super fortunate, which gives me the motivation to express my gratitude, experiences, emotions, and who I am creatively on canvas.

Some of my pieces illustrate a lot of where I come from and who I am. I discovered art at a fairly young age and started pursuing it as a hidden hobby at 12 years old. I was shy and didn’t want anyone to know I enjoyed painting. Being an artist and painting was considered lame and not cool (lol), I also really didn’t think I was that good. It was just a hobby and also a way to avoid getting in trouble. I would paint for hours and lock myself up in my room, but I never saw it being worth showing or talking about until my father found a painting behind my dresser ready to go to the trash. He absolutely refused to throw it away. Instead, he framed my artwork and after that…well, art became more than just a hobby. It was a talent (that my dad helped me feel worthy of my niche, as he would call it). Eventually it became a passion that I cannot live without!

This was the first artwork created (at 12 years old) that was ready to go to trash and later it was framed.
Title: “Secure Comfort” | Photo was taken at The Library of Congress Art Exhibit, Washington, D.C.
(Photograph by Byron Curry)

I see that you are a member at Filipino Adoptee Networks

Yes. As I mentioned earlier, Lorial is a phenomenal Filipina who created FAN and has helped me and many other Filipinos network with appropriate people. She has a great vision to bring people together and help connect you with others.

FAN had a panel discussion on this topic. (http://www.loc.gov/today/pr/2011/11-192.html) In this panel, Psychologist Amanda Baden discussed identity crisis in teen years among the adoptees.

Yes, Amanda Baden is a great psychologist and I had the opportunity to listen to her discuss identity crises that typically start at a very young age and eventually can manifest to depression and other issues. We talked about our own struggles and discussed different scenarios, situations, how to possibly recognize children and youth who struggle with identity issues and to suggest tips to help minimize and possibly prevent them. It was a very interesting group and I felt extremely honored to be part of the panel.

“Celebration of Champions” with the 10th Annual Academy Awards celebration of adoption banquet, hosted by the Coalition of Adoption Programs, Inc. Walk the red carpet, experience all the lights, camera, and action as they honor deserving families.

Tell me about your identity crisis as an adoptee and mixing it with your creativity. Did you ever connect with your biological parents as I can see longing in some of your paintings?

Growing up was a challenge because I faced racial discrimination, abandonment issues, and not feeling wanted or accepted. As a child, it was very hard to understand why you were given up, why your adopted parents don’t look like you, and also to deal with a lot of negativity as an orphan, etc. I definitely struggled with identity at a young age…I think we all do at one point or another, so being adopted (in my opinion) just makes it even more intense, strange and complicated, especially as a child.

It was my art that helped me evolve, gain confidence and see my self-worth. Art helped me forget my worries because I stopped sweating the small stuff that I couldn’t control and I started utilizing the things I could appreciate, value and control: my creativity. Art was the one thing I didn’t fear. I realized no one can take it from me and that’s what helped me gain confidence.

Some of my artwork definitely reflects my inner emotions and feelings of being given up as well as longing to meet my biological family, which I did. I did some of my artwork before I met my family (in the summer of 2005) and I have other artwork illustrating my experiences after I met them. Meeting my biological family was the most exhilarating, thrilling and amazing journey I’ve ever experienced.

In your BIO, you mentioned you are working on a book and a screenplay based on a true story—is this your story? Is this about your adoption and breaking stereotypes?

THE WORK IS ACTUALLY A SCREENPLAY BASED ON A TRUE STORY. So, yes, the story definitely has to do with adoption, breaking stereotypes, and most of all, educating those who lack understanding of adoption and foster-care. It also focuses on educating those who are planning or seriously considering adopting. I incorporated my amazing journey/experiences in the book to give the audience some of the things I’ve experienced and to help others be more aware of what it’s like when adopting as well as fostering children.

What is your plan for a comeback?

My plan is to paint more, have more shows and share my stories through my creative expression (art and writing). My ultimate goal is to have my story turned into a film. Being able to share my story and make others more aware of these issues, plus entertain people would be my ultimate come back!

A significant amount of any proceeds will go to adoption and foster-care agencies as well as efforts to stop domestic violence and gun violence (in honor of my dad who was gunned down in such a senseless manner). Long term, I would like to be a philanthropist and be able to help numerous organizations as my way of giving back.

I am very passionate about my gift, my art, and would like to share it with everyone I meet…share a piece of who I am with others and hopefully make a difference. I am seeking legal representation (agent) to help me produce the story as a film and play. If you know anyone who wants a unique story and will believe in my vision and project, please send them my way! I’m also open to an art agent who can possibly book me for other art exhibits locally and internationally.

My website is www.tiyadk.com. My facebook (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tiya-DK/190371861040167) and my email is tiya@tiyadk.com or tiyadk@yahoo.com.

All images are provided by Marilyn “Tiya DK” Kirby.

Artist Jensen Moreno: “Her world is the art class, her class is the art world, and her art is world class.”

February 22, 2015April 12, 2015 / Jennifer Bichara / 13 Comments

Born on January 21, 1984 in Orion Bataan, Jensen Moreno’s art voyage began in the Philippines. She was excellent and honor student from the beginning who was destined to succeed in art locally and internationally. “Her world is the art class, her class is the art world, and her art is world class,” as quoted by Jonathan Bar-On—an Author and Teacher at Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Her tertiary and post graduate studies began in University of Sto. Thomas (UST) where she took Bachelor in Fine Arts majoring in Painting and proceeded with Master of Fine Arts. She worked as a freelance visual artist, designer, and art tutor who did commissioned work and even managed her own boutique and art studios. She was an art instructor and facilitator in elementary and high schools who also conducted special programs and workshops for all levels of students. Her last stint as a professor was in Mapua Institute of Technology teaching monochromatic freehand drawing, illustration and so on. Her former mentor and art collector, Dr. Mendez in fact believed in her talent so much that he bought most of her works while still residing in Manila whom she met last 2009.

It is in 2011, she spread her wings further and left for Vietnam. Her Vietnam art journey began when Jensen joined the Vin Space, Trung Khuyen Nhac, and Saigon South International School as a part-time art teacher to kids and adults.

Browsing from her iPhoto…this was taken few years ago. This is when she got really emotional. Looking back at those defining moments that lead her to where she is now and saying, what if? Will her journey still be the same if she didn’t take that chance?.. – caption via Facebook.

Jensen’s first international art-solo-show in Vietnam titled “Twenty-Seven.”

Her successes and activities all bulleted as there are too many—a global Pinay success story. God knows where she will be a few years from now. Truly a multi-gifted artist, designer, and organizer of art.

JENSEN’S ART JOURNEY IN VIETNAM:

She stunned the local Filipino and international community in Saigon by conducting her first international solo exhibit just a month after she arrived. Her exhibition “Twenty-Seven” was held at the Kinh Bac Restaurant and Gallery. The event was a success and was attended by more than a hundred people on opening night—unforeseen for an artist new to Vietnam.
When she joined The American School of Vietnam (TAS) as a faculty member in July of the same year, she showed more of her genius creativity as a designer who makes women’s accessories, clothes. She led two outstanding fashion shows and her Avant Garde Collection of wearable art pieces which is made of recyclable materials impressed the crowd all together.
The multi-faceted Jensen was also involved in theatre and school play productions who directed the set and props design team. As an art teacher, she also trained some of her young students for art competitions and because of her guided teachings: one of her 4th grade students won an over-all championship award out of more than 2000 entries.
Due to “La Vita e la morte” art exhibition of International Artists in Boomerang Bistro Saigon (last July 2012), she was introduced to more charitable work. This helped her fulfill her goals of reaching out to the less fortunate. She even donated some of her paintings for auction and taught art to disadvantage kids who are afflicted with HIV to benefit the SMILE Group Charity.
During that year, Jensen did not stop. She even helped promote Filipino art and culture internationally by organizing an art exhibition for emerging Filipino artists for the celebration of Philippine Independence. The exhibit entitled, “PinoyAko (I’m a Filipino)” was attended by 30 artists who flew to Vietnam last June of 2012 to showcase incomparable works of art done by our own Filipino talents. All art works were shown in different venues and local and international dignitaries attended the affair: Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts, The Equatorial Hotel Saigon, and Intercontinental Hotel Saigon. The exhibition was featured in English Magazines and websites throughout Vietnam.
Summer of 2012, Jensen flew back to the Philippines for the “Figuras 5” painting exhibition where she painted Ms. Philippines World, Ms. Daisy Reyes, on a 6×8 foot canvas.” (The girl in the middle)

Portrait of Councilor Daisy Reyes-Ms. Philippines World, 6×8 ft. oil on canvas. “In a world where beauty is not all it takes” FIGURAS 5 Art Exhibition,Mendez Big&Small Art Gallery – caption via Facebook.

Upon her return to Saigon, she had the privilege to work with Ms. Hoang My Vu, Ms. Vietnam World 2012. Her masterful portrait of the beauty queen was exhibited at the Philippines-Vietnam Music and Art Show for business and friendship at Hard Rock Café in Saigon. Once again, the art event was well attended by local and Filipino dignitaries including her subject, Ms. Vietnam World, Hoang My Vu.
Jensen Moreno finds fulfillment in teaching young minds all she knows about art and to encourage young people to fulfill their creative potential. She also finds equally satisfying producing her own artworks. Oil is her medium of choice and although she focuses on seascapes and abstract paintings but it is in portraiture, she found her niche.
During her second year at TAS, she taught elective art courses for the high school students and was the organizer in their very first art exhibition which was held in downtown Ho Chi Minh City—a painting auction and performance art was also held at the event.

“THIRTY-ONE”, Jensen Moreno’s 2nd international solo show will reveal her newest collection of paintings in Beijing, China on March 21st, Taipei on April 1st, and lastly, Cambodia on July 1st 2015.

JENSEN’S ART JOURNEY IN CHINA

Her passion for teaching and creating art continues in China when she moved on 2013. Her interest in organizing art shows will never stop—as it is in her heart.

She continued were she taught PYP visual art teacher at the Guangdong Country Garden School.
And while in Foshan, Jensen got into film making. She did a little bit of acting and production designing. For the acting part, she learned how to drive a motorbike somewhat precariously. The first short film entitled, “Rumble in the Bronx” was shown as an entry to Swede Fest 2013 in Fresno, California. She then, participated with two more short films, both were Christmas themed.
Jensen also joined forces with the music and art teachers at the school for school music and art show entitled, “The Meeting.”
After her stint in Guangdong, Jensen moved to Beijing to become a visual art teacher for Upper elementary at the Beijing International Bilingual Academy.
Being in a new environment inspires and motivates her to be her best. She became more involved at her church and also recently organized a performance art event with students from different international schools in Beijing.

Congratulations BIBA ARTISTS for winning one of the Honor Awards out of hundreds of entries!!! Way to go my dear students! – caption via Facebook.

After the success of her first one-woman show in Vietnam, “THIRTY-ONE”, Jensen Moreno’s 2^nd international solo show will reveal her newest collection of paintings in Beijing, China on March 21^st, Taipei on April 1^st, and lastly, Cambodia on July 1^st
At the moment, Jensen is enjoying her life as an art teacher. She enjoys creating artworks for art competitions, and exhibiting students’ artworks. She looks forward to spending wonderful years in China both in teaching and creating art.
“Her world is the art class, her class is the art world, and her art is world class.” INDEED!

Life in Beijing is brilliant.

Article Source by Jonathan Bar-On, Author and Teacher at Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

All images provided by the artist.

Q&A: Flerrie Vicencio—The Widow Who Found Healing in Painting

January 21, 2015January 20, 2015 / Jennifer Bichara / 3 Comments

Jenny’s Serendipity’s featured artist is Flerrie Valiente-Vicencio—a Malabon City native and a graduate of UST Fine Arts who majored in Advertising. When her father died, she inherited an engineering company. With the help of her husband, she was able to manage her business. But tragedy came too soon, her husband died and she was left to fend everything to herself. Thanks to her husbands loyal employees, the business survived. With the business, she then started an animation company back when it was new to do 2D animation.

Because of her struggles, her paintings became her way of relaxation. Flerrie is an artist who paints from her imagination. I got to interview Mrs. Vicencio online and here is what we talked about how her art heals her:

You have a lot going on in your life. You graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts, who majored in Advertising from UST, you inherited an engineering company, you do animation, and you are a visual artist on the side. In all these, what best defines you?

I love drawing women, sceneries, animals, houses. And a lot of times, I will switch to drawing volcanic eruptions, wars… even in high school. I still do that, especially when I am bored.

I hope through constant practice, my true character will show in my paintings. I’d like to be bold in my characters. I can say anything I want when I paint freely.

Artist at work.

When did you start painting and what was your first work? Who or what urged you to paint? Who are your influences? Where do you draw inspiration from?

My father’s close friend was an oil painter. I remember him doing portraits, and sceneries. I really admire his style but I knew all along, that my father was just helping him financially.

Knowing that there is no money in art but despite that, I took up Fine Arts in UST and majored in Advertising mainly because we have our family business. Did not worry and hated Math… And most of all, I followed my heart’s desire.

My pleasant easy moments with my parents when I was a kid; my informal training and development I had experienced while watching my father draw images for me on pieces of plywood, while he was doing carpentry for our cabinets or whatever he was doing had a great impact with me. During his break time, he would draw some images for me mostly animals, flowers, and people. Sometimes, my mother would do the same. She would draw women with nice curly hair, flowers and bahay kubo. I was too fascinated by just watching them draw for me. I remembered my father would draw big drawings using chalks and charcoals. It was fun! I would always get in trouble because my notebook was filled with drawings instead of lectures.

When my father died of leukemia, I had to resign and continue the family business. Luckily, my taste for guns helped me a lot, and my husband’s background in engineering was a big help too. Thus, we were able to continue. What we had then was metal, woodcraft industry, and some engineering works more on air-gun manufacturing.

At the same time, some animation friends gave me the idea, to open my own animation studio back in 2000; thus, Northkey Images was born. I was able to train some youths in our area. We were able to win some projects from big studios here in the country. The biggest project we had is Kong.

What is your most memorable painting and why?

My first finished painting is “The Man from a Novel.” I started working on that piece when I was very frustrated and desperate with everything that I did. I was almost gave up and then suddenly, I found this desire to paint again.

I grabbed my college painting set. Surprisingly, my oil colors were still okay. I just worked freestyle until these images came out – “The Bearded Man, “The Snow,” “The Dog,” and “The Boat,” without any references.

The paintings are still with me but are now reserved.

Fruit Trip — 24″ x 24″ oil on canvas 2013.

When the world was young— 24″ x 36″ oil on canvas
2000-2011

You have been a widow for a while now. Do you have any children? How do you juggle all those different things that you do? Who helps you?

My most tragic blow in my life was when my husband was killed over a traffic dispute that was barely eight months when my father died. Those sad, tragic events kept lingering in my thoughts and would still make me cry to this day… But that sad episode made me stronger. Not a day will pass without me going to the firing range. I became more addicted to guns.

I still struggled to continue with the business, but with the help of my father’s most loyal employees, I was able to manage the business.

I was raised like a boy. I loved guns like how some girls adored their dolls. Our business was mainly focused on air-guns.

Flerrie at a shooting range.

It is just me and my elder sister with no sons. So maybe my dad was too dreaming of a son so I grew up like a boy. I was able to survive more than 20 years and just recently, I decided it was really over, because it’s really difficult to compete with China—a major competitor.

My three daughters are all married and with nice jobs. I have a granddaughter and two grandsons. They are now on their own, have their own houses, and I could now spend the rest of my life painting and painting. I am comfortable, yes.

But my final wish, if I can still make it, is to build my dream rest house… My paradise where I can paint my heart out and paint all my dreams, for me and my family… And if I can continue with a food business, like how my parents dreamt, I will restart and do it all over again—maybe a cute, secret hideaway restaurant for artists and fans, and a nice gallery.

With all those different things you got going on, how often do you paint? When do you find or make the time for it?

When traditional animation (2D) here in the country turned slow and suddenly, India was taking over, I decided to close down because we can no longer compete with the price.

That’s when I started painting again because I was so missing the momentum I had with my animation business. Painting lessened all the strain I got from working on our business. Of course, it was more on troubleshooting. After my father died, financial losses, and uncollected debts, painting became my medium to release the stress.

Is painting a plain hobby of yours? Do you also get to join competitions and exhibits? And do you get to sell your paintings? Have you turned this hobby to a sideline job as well?

PAINTING is my passion, my comfort, and my source. Unlike before, I was very shy to join any contest, to join any art group. It is just here on cyberspace that by luck, I was able to follow the trails of some real life artist friends. I love the artist interaction especially Kimnetix. I love that group.

I don’t know but I’m too tired of competing. All I want to do now is go with the flow. Whatever will come out of this, I am charging to experience. My painting is my own escape from reality but faith and fate will change its route and who knows what could happen but for now, this is a hobby.

Painting is like I am travelling into a different dimension….creating a world of my own….Thus,time passes by too quickly
and I dont even notice……….My Passion 🙂 –A Quote taken from her FB album.

What do you paint best? What is your specialty and what is your best sample of that which you did?

I have no favorite piece. I love all my creations. It’s difficult to separate from them. I love the feeling if some people will somehow treasure my pieces, keep them as their own and make them a part of their family—I will miss them though.

Tell us about your foray into animation. How did you go about it? How many projects have you done? Enumerate your best works. What is your future in animation (projects that will come out this 2015)?

We were then the pioneers in animation here in the country. I was employed by Optifex International, one of the first animation studios in the Philippines together with Burbank, and then finally made it at Fil Cartoons as a 2D key animator.

How long have you worked in advertising? Do you still do it from time to time?

I was able to finish my course despite being three months pregnant and having an early marriage. There was a two-year interval for all my three daughters, and in between those years, I managed to work and practice my course. I worked for a textile company as designer, t-shirt designer, and then finally, I made it to the animation industry.

What are future events in your life as an artist that you’d like people to know about?

Now, I’m more concentrated into painting. My mind is bursting with so many ideas. If someday I make it, I will be very thankful because it is my passion, my kind of fun, my healing, and my stress buster.

Thank you so much for the interest. I know you are very nice for helping artist alleviate the life of struggling artists. More Power!

All images courtesy by the artist.

Featured Artist: Sr. Venus Marie S. Pegar

January 11, 2015January 11, 2015 / Jennifer Bichara / 5 Comments

Meet Sr. Venus Marie Pegar, the nun who paints on the side. She started drawing at an early age and continued her artistic pursuit even when she made the VOW to be God’s servant. She said she is grateful that her congregation, Sisters of St. Francis Xavier, supports her artistry but her community outreach will always come first.

Sister of St. Francis Xavier was portrayed by actress Jessy Mendiola in the August 30, 2014 episode of TV drama show “Maalaala Mo Kaya” on ABS-CBN Channel 2, for her incredible story of life, love, devotion, and vocation. (Please check a short clip of Jessy Mendiola below – Yeah that’s her) 😉

Every artist has an art journey to tell. I as a blogger intend to showcase these stories. Sr. Venus hopes one day she will exhibit her work and that would be her first exposure to the art world including this feature article.

Nuns do paint too. Read her art journey and get inspired. Enjoy!

You’re a nun. At what point in your life did you realize the artist side of yourself? When did you develop it and what influenced you to pursue it as one of your passions, second to serving the Lord?

Actually, artist runs in the family. I started drawing at an early age of eight (Grade 3, at that time). My dad was also an artist but only known to some. He encouraged me to draw and supplied me with the materials. It is not really a second option together with serving the Lord. My siblings: my brother is a professional artist based in Cebu and my other brother is into graphics.

Sr. Venus Marie S. Pegar was inspired to paint the Pope to commemorate Pope Francis Philippine visit on Jan 15.

How many years have you been a nun? Under what order or congregation? Do they support your artistry or did you struggle with that aspect?

I’ve been in the congregation of the Sisters of St. Francis Xavier for eight years and a professed sister only for four years since I entered the convent in my later years after working outside.

My congregation and community supports me with my artistry. I’m so at peace in reawakening my passion even our superior general approves it with love. And most especially, the support of my brother who provides me with the materials.

How old are now? Where are you from? Your life story was featured on TV’s ‘Maalaala Mo Kaya’ (in the episode “Sulat,” last August 2014). How did they learn about you? Did you write to them and sent your story?

Last December 11, I turned 38. I was born in Leyte but studied college and worked in Manila. I hid my identity in my MMK story to protect everyone. I just made it known to some close friends and family. At the end of the episode, my pic appeared so some recognized me.

How many suitors and how many boyfriends did you have before you decided to pursue Holy Orders? Your last boyfriend must have been crushed with your decision to become a nun. Did he or did any of those men who came into your life inspire you to paint?

I had a lot of suitors during my younger years but I only had one boyfriend until the time when I decided to enter… My dad inspired me to paint since it was our bonding moment together before he died.

The subject of the painting was based on a pink flower she saw at Tagaytay Picnic Grove. It is a meaningful remembrance of her first community outing.

What is your first masterpiece? Tell us about it.

My first drawing was when I was eight years old. My dad encouraged me to draw so I came out with the portrait of Ms. Gloria Romero in pencil. The portrait ended up as a birthday gift to my grandmother.

You are also an educator now? Where? What do you teach? How long have you been teaching? What do you always tell your students?

I am currently assigned as a formator to aspirant, and postulant of our congregation. My position helps them spiritually on how to be a Religious Sister of our congregation. I always impart in them the reality that we are created by our loving Creator so we need to be creative and express our great appreciation of all things around us by means of art like painting. Every Tuesday and Thursday night is their artworks and painting time with myself.

The subject of painting is Estes Park in the U.S. where her best friend lives that she hopes to visit in Gods time.

As a nun, you also get to serve at masses. What is your role? Are you part of the choir, lector, communion minister, or donation collector?

Besides being a formator and vocation directress of our congregation, I’m also help in our mission in taking care of the elderly in our institution, the Mary Mother of Mercy Home for the Elderly and Abandoned. We serve and cater to 20 abandoned senior citizens. We have our own Sunday Mass wherein we ourselves are the choir, commentator, and lector. I also teach our candidates about music, singing, and playing guitar; flute and keyboard, a bit.

Who are the artists you look up to?

I look up to all the artists with their artistic masterpieces but recently, I have been admiring the works of United Women Artists Association of the Philippines (UWAAP); most especially, the obras (paintings) of Ms. Menchu Arandilla (Please check my featured post on Menchu here). So amazing!

How do you juggle your roles? What is your weekly schedule? What is your best art work? Tell us about it. Do you sell your paintings?

I just do my paintings on my free time. I don’t let it intervene with my mission work in the congregation. I paint during our evening recreation and sometimes Sunday afternoon.

The best painting I have is my second try with the oil painting, the sunflower. I took a picture of that sunflower somewhere in Tagaytay as we had our first community outing. I like sunflowers so I’m planning to paint more of it.

Before, I never thought of selling my art as I used to just give my charcoal paintings to some friends. But now I realized that I could contribute to the financial needs of our Formation and Mission Program of our Congregation. Wishing, I get to sell my art works and with the help of UWAAP (Check my UWAAP post here: Filipinas all over gather for love of art at the 1st SBMA ‘Bagong Pinay’ Arts Summit) I will fulfill my wish.

I would like to experience an art exhibit showcasing my works. This will be my first exposure to the art world and thanks to this article; she hopes to get more exposure.

What is the latest about you? Where can people view your work? Any upcoming exhibits or events you would like people to know about?

I only started painting seriously. I just simply post it on my Facebook account. People can also just view the page of UWAAP as I also update my ongoing paintings there.

UWAAP Member Artist. United Women Artists Association of the Philippines is an association of empowered Filipina artists in the Philippines and abroad.

All images courtesy of the artist.

Featured Artist: Marilyn Santos-De Lima

January 7, 2015January 7, 2015 / Jennifer Bichara / 12 Comments

Marylyn like me started joining artist groups. In the beginning, she would just like all the art works until she started painting. A self-taught artist, guided by her Master artist friends from 4S Group Style Stroke Sketches Society made her more confident to pursue arts.

I came across Marilyn Santos-De Lima @ AFKN Filipino Art Community and viewed her albums and said to myself, she can be an inspiration to all Pinays here and abroad. So I asked her if I can feature her art journey in my blog, and she happily obliged.

Now this feature is in Tagalog and English (The same as my Featured Artist: Lord Ahzrin Bacalla post.). I try to keep the artist insights as original as possible with accompanying English translation for non-Tagalog readers. I’d like to be fair on the featured artist part, as he or she took the time out to answer their artist insights from the bottom of their hearts art journey.

A Bulaquena and a former overseas worker, who found solace in the arts, shared her art journey to me and to my blog. Enjoy!

When did you decide that you wanted to become an artist? At what age did you start? Who influenced you? What inspired you?

Ako ay isang batang laki sa iskwater at hirap sa buhay na nahihilig sa Art. Bata pa lang po ako ay mahilig na po akong magdrowing basta nakakakita ako ng lapis at papel. Mahilig din ako mag ekperimento sa larangan ng mga kraft. May kapit bahay kaming. Artist magaling siyang artist. Nauubos ang oras ko at hindi naibebenta ang nilalako ko na paninda sa kapapanood sa kanya.

(I grew up in the slums yet I like art. I always drew when I got hold of paper and pencil. I like to experiment in crafts. We had a neighbor who was an artist back then and I would get distracted me from making sales as a street vendor when I see him paints.)

Marilyn Santos-De Lima’s art studies.

What do you specialize in when it comes to painting? Are there other art forms that you do?

Lahat ng klase ng midyum pinag-aaralan ko. Sa ngayon ay nasa oil painting na ako at sumusubok na rin sa canvas.

Pero nang napasok ako ng 4S at kinausap ng head admin, sinabihan ako na magpokus muna sa isang midyum at karamihan ng nagawa ko sa ngayon ay gawa sa pastel at colored pencil.

Sa mga gawa ko ring ‘yon ay nanalo ako bilang 1st runner-up at finalist. Nakapag-eksibit na rin sa Japan, nakapag-komisyon na rin.

Portrait ang nakakahiligan ko sa ngayon pero ang balak ko ngayong 2015 ay harapin ko na ang takot ko sa malalaking canvas at sa pintura at uumpisahan ko nang gumawa ng landscape at still-life oil man o acrylic.

(I study different kind of art mediums. I’m trying oil paintings on canvas now. Since I joined 4s, I was advised by the head admin to focus on one medium first. Prior to oil, I would use paste and colored pencil. I’ve won 1^st Runner-Up and became finalist for it. I’ve also gone on exhibit in Japan and was commissioned. I like doing portraits but this 2015, I plan to face my fear of big canvases. I will start painting landscapes and still-life, in oil or acrylic.)

You worked as an OFW and then you became a businesswoman. Where did art come into the picture? How did it make it to your plans?

Marilyn Santos-De Lima’s very first Oil on Canvas 18×20.

Nag-aabrod ako at ‘pag umuuwi ako ng Pinas, hindi nawawala sa akin pagiging crafty. Madalas ako mag-sketch, (I go abroad and when I go home to the Philippines, I don’t lose being crafty. I often sketch) mostly charcoal, at ipa-freym kong mga iyon (and I have those framed).

Mahilig din ako sa (I also like) cross-stitch.

May mga gawa ako na (I have creations of) cross-stitch, 1997-1999.

Mahilig din akong mag-ayos ng bahay, simula sa kurtina (I also like to do interior design, from the curtains), center table, flower arrangement at ‘pag may handaan ay mahilig ako mag-ayos ng mga buffet settings (at parties, I also like to set the tables), simula sa (from the) table arrangement flowers, balloons, etc.

Hanggang sa nagtayo rin ako ng (Until I put up a) flower, gift shop & catering service dahil mahilig din ako sa food arts (because I’m also fond of culinary arts), hindi nga lang pinalad dahil salat sa kaalaman (it failed though because I lacked the knowledge).

Nag-aral din akong gumawa ng kandila sa (I also studied candle making at) Negoskwela at ang mentor ko ay si (where I was mentored by) Merlin Gepte anak ni (son of) Merlito Gepte, a sculpture artist.

Nagpokus naman ako sa paggawa ng kandila as sculpture at paggawa ng mga molde (I also focused on doing wax work).

Naging hanapbuhay ko rin siya sa loob ng tatlong taon pero nabuntis ako at natigil ko iyon dahil masama sa buntis ang amoy ng wax ‘pag niluluto pero patuloy pa rin ako sa pag-ukit ng wax at paggawa ng mga molde para sa mga design.

(It became my job for three years until I got pregnant and had to quit because the fumes were bad for the baby but I did it again after giving birth).

Marilyn Santos-De Lima’s portrait rendition by Filipino Master Artist Rafael Maniago.

2013, nakita ko sa (I saw here on) Facebook si Maestro Merlito Gepte. Naging friends kami (We became friends).

Sumunod naman si (Next were) Maestro Fernando Sena at (and) Julius Legaspi, mga artist sa pagpipinta (all artists who paint).

Taga-like lang ako ng mga gawa nila at simula noon (I was simply a liker of the works they posted then and from then on), unti-unti na rumami ang mga friends ko na artist painter, mga kinikilala sa larangan ng sining biswal (slowly, my painter friends multiplied until even those prominent names in the visual arts too made my friends list).

Taong ito, nakapasok na rin ako sa mga art group pero tagahanga lang nila ako at taga-like. (This year, I joined art groups but only as a fun and avid liker).

Early this year, nagdro ako at inaplowd ko sa (I drew and uploaded it on) Facebook. May mga nag-like at nag-comment (There were people who liked and commented).

Sabi ng isang artist, “Sabi ko na nga, marunong ka rin eh.” (One of the artists said, “I knew it that you had it in you.”)

Doon ako nag-umpisang ma-encourage at magpatuloy sa paggagawa hanggang sa dumami ang mga friend kong artist at naaya akong pumasok sa isang (It was then that I got encouraged, my artist friends grew in numbers and I was persuaded to join an) Artist Group, 4S.

Napasubo akong gumawa.

Sobra pa akong takot noon sa mga kulay dahil (I was pressured. I was scared of colors because) pencil at (and) charcoal palang mga nagagawa ko (was what I only knew) pero sa tuloy-tuloy kong paggawa ay nakagawa ako ng isang obra na nagpanalo sa akin bilang (but I just went on creating until I made a masterpiece that won for me) 1st runner-up sa (at the) tournament ng (of) 4S.

Doon na nagsimula ang lahat hanggang sa weekly na iinterbyu na ako at nirerepresent ko na ang mga artist sa grupo ko hanggang sa nagulat na lang ako at ginawa nila akong admin ng (It all started from there until I got a weekly interview {on AM radio} representing the) 4S group ni (of) Pops Noel David na (the) founder ng (of) 4S Style Stroke Sketches Society.

Nasorpresa ako nang gawin nila akong admin ng (I was surprised when they hired me as admin of) 4S.

Is there anyone else besides you in your family who is into art?

Gumuguhit din ang tatay ng nanay ko, kaya lang sa hirap ng buhay at kailangan niyang maghanap buhay nasaisang tabi niya ang (My mother’s father also drew but because he had to support the family, he had less time for the) arts.

Ang mga tiyo at tiya ko ay mahilig din. Maging tatay ko at mga kapatid ko. (My uncles, aunts, my father and my siblings are into art too).

May pamangkin din ako na nakakasabayan ko na rin sa pagguhit at pagpinta (The child of my sibling was also into drawing and painting).

Ipinasok ko siya sa (I entered the child as member of) 4S para lalo pa niyang mapagbuti (for further talent development).

Ang mga anak, ko ay mga musikero naman (My children on the other hand are into music).

They like playing instruments and vocals sa banda (in a band).

Ang pinakabata kong anak na lalake ay (My youngest son is a) dancer. Ang bunso ko na nag-iisang babae na (My youngest child and only daughter who is) six years old ay nagiging (is growing up to be a) singer, dancer, at pintor (and painter).

Artistik talaga ang pamilya namin. Iba-iba lang (Everyone in my family is an artist, only in different ways). <Tumatawa – laughs>

This is a piece of art work she won 1st Runner Up on 3rd Anniversary Painting Contest called “Pinay in Japan.”

Are there any regrets in your life in the path you chose now?

Wala naman akong (I don’t have any) regrets kasi lahat naman ng nangyayari sa buhay natin ay may rason, may kanya-kanyang (because everything happens for a reason and a) purpose.

Pero kung mayroon man, hayun siguro ay ang maaga akong nagkaanak dahil hindi ko na-enjoy ang kabataan ko dahil sa hirap. Lahat ng puwede kong gawing source of income ko para makaahon ang pamilya ko, ginawa ko.

(If there was, that would be my becoming a mother at an early age. I didn’t enjoy my childhood because I needed to work extra hard to address my family’s needs and lift us all from poverty).

Kaya ‘di ko naipagpatuloy pag-aaral ko (That’s why I wasn’t able to finish school). Panganay kasi ako (I am the eldest child of my parents).

Although may trabaho si Tatay (my Dad had work), malaki ang pamilya namin, hindi sumasapat (but we have a big family and what he earned wasn’t enough).

Masalimuot ang kabataan ko subalit kailangan nating mag-(I had a rough childhood but we all must) move on to live in this world na makabuluhan (with meaning).

Pencil/ Soft Pastel. Art by Marilyn Santos-De Lima.

How does art make you feel?

Malaking bagay ang art sa akin (Art means a lot to me).

Nagiging masaya ako nakakalimutan ko ang mga problema ko ‘pag nakakatapos ako ng Obra ko at na uplowd ko na siya sa (It makes me happy and forget my problems especially when I finish a Masterpiece of mine and I upload it on) Facebook.

Nakikita ko ang mga (When I see the likes at (and) comments, sobrang saya ko na (that gives me much joy already).

Kapag may nagtitiwala sa akin at nagpapagawa ng (When someone trusts me to do their) portrait nila, sobrang saya ko (that gives me so much joy).

What is your best work? Favorite work? Most acclaimed/awarded work? You’re best achievement?

Sa ngayon po, baguhan pa lang po kasi ako. Ang masasabi ko lang na (I’m just new to all this that’s why I can say that my) best para sa akin ay ’yong pagkapanalo ko bilang (is when I won) 1st runner-up, ‘yong mga (my) exhibits ko sa (in) Japan at ‘yong (and my) portrait ng (of the) first family na gawa ko (that I did).

Her first exhibit held in Shinjuku Tokyo Japan at Mama Aki’s Ihawanshinjuku Kabukicho.

Marilyn Santos-De Lima’s first commission work.

You do PR work now. How is it so far?

Nakakatuwa (I feel happy).

Naging (I became) PR Admin ako agad sa (in a short time to our) group namin sa 4S.

Eto kasi si (All because) Pops natuwa sa akin kasi daw (believes I am the group’s) lucky charm ako. <laughs>

Hindi ko inisip ‘yon kasi para sa akin kung ano man ang tagumpay na mayroon ako ngayon ay tinatanaw kong malaking utang na loob kay (I don’t let it get to my head because whatever success I enjoy now, I owe it all to) Pops Noel David at sa mga (and to the) members ng (of) 4S, lalo na kay (especially to) Sir Norberto Villez, Tani Santos, Maryrose Soriano, Armar Ramirez, Marko Bello, Fher Mission, kasi sila ang nag-ga-(because they) guide sa akin (me) ‘pag may mga (when I have a) question ako.

Sa totoo lang, wala talaga akong kaalam-alam.

Basta guhit lang ako ng guhit (In truth, I don’t know anything. I just draw and draw). ‘Yong mga (All those) terms na (such as) medium grid, freehand, etc. <laughs>

Sa labas naman ng grupo namin, lubos akong (Outside the group, I’m also very) thankful kasi napasok din ako ng (because I also got to be a member of) ArtPhil.

Kina (To) Buhay Mendoza, Budz Convocar, Arturo Cruz, Joel Ferraris, Fidel Sarmiento, Matthius Garcia, na sinabihan akong ituloy ko lang ang paggawa ko kasi walang mali sa art, lahat tama basta galing sa puso (who advised me to continue my craft because there is no wrong or right in art, as long as it comes from the heart).

Sa (To) foreign artist na si Jesse Quintanilla na (who) step-by-step tinuruan din ako (taught me too), si (to) Sir Lito Ballaran na nagtiyagang mag-crop ng work ko (who had the patience to crop my work), kay (to) Mestro Rafael Maniago na napaka-(who’s very) down to earth sa kabila ng kasikatan niya (even if he’s famous) managed to guide and teach me, kay (to) Aubrey Pabuhat Yano, para sa mga (for her) artist na connections niya sa (in) Japan sa (for the) commercial ng mga gawa naming (of our art works), kay (to) Ma’am Nitz Cea na (a fellow) art enthusiast na nag-(who did) encourage me na mag-(to do a) weekly DJ job on Radio Net Japan Tokyo Raydio Filipino, that got me appointed by Pops Noel David as Public Relations officer kasi madaldal daw ako at mahilig daw makipag–(because they say I am talkative and love to) communicate <laughs>.

Mahirap ang PR work (is hard) sa grupo namin na (in our group) 4S kasi may mga baguhang papasok (because there are newbies who join).

Need mo silang i-(to) guide (them), Minsan personal works ko nabibitin gawin kasi need kong gawin ang task ko as PR pero masaya kasi marami akong nakikilalang bagong kaibigan (Sometimes I sacrifice my time to finish my paintings just to attend to the needs of my PR job but it’s fun because I get to meet many new friends).

SEMI Finalist out of 28 entry’s on a Precious Child Tournament.

Do you get to travel? As an OFW, have your experiences in foreign soil influenced your art? What countries have you been to? Did you do any painting while there?

Sa pag-aabrod (When I was) in 90s, naikot namin ang (was able to travel around) Asia like Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Hong Kong as group at mahilig akong bumili ng mga (and I loved to buy) art works.

From 1999 to 2002, I was as an Overseas Performing Artist or OPA in Japan.

Mahilig pa rin akong mag-(I still loved to) sketch at mag-(and to) design doon (there).

I did Design ‘pag may (at every) event ang (of our) company.

Minsan may isang (Once there was a) Japanese na natuwa sa akin dahil sa (who liked my) sketch ko sa (on) table napkin.

My works were requested and then I was invited to an exhibit where I saw works of D’ Vinci Monet Picasso etc.

Nagulat talaga ako at sobrang tuwa ko (I was really surprised and overjoyed).

The Japanese offered if I wanted to pursue further studies on painting but it was not on my itinerary and so I forgot about it.

What are your future plans for the next five years? Any upcoming significant event to you that you would like to promote?

Please support our own and watch her radio show, Raydio Filipino Tokyo.

Gusto ko makagawa ng isang Obra na kikilalanin talaga at makakatulong sa mga kapwa ko (Filipino Artist) para sa Bansa natin (I want to create something that will really be big internationally and will benefit our fellow Filipino Artists and the Philippines).

Sa (On) January 10,zd may (we have an) exhibit, 4S Group Artists entitled “Abbygale in Style Stroke Sketches Society” at Four Seasons, Tokyo, Japan.

Panoorin ninyo rin po sana kami tuwing Sabado (Please also tune in to watch us every Saturday), 10 a.m. to 12 noon on Raydio Filipino Tokyo Radio net where I am co-DJ, sa paghahangad na maipakilala ang sining nating mga Filipino sa buong mundo (who aims to promote our Filipino art worldwide).

All images are courtesy of Marilyn Santos-De Lima unless noted otherwise.

Feel free to contact Marilyn (Apple D Apps) via Facebook.

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Featured Artist: Sr. Venus Marie S. Pegar

Featured Artist: Marilyn Santos-De Lima

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