My painting process varies based on how I’m feeling at the moment. But it generally starts with light washes of acrylic or inks, then I loosely sketch my image with graphite or charcoal, add a few layers of acrylic, some mark making, then I finish with oil. When I am feeling bold, I lay collage pieces at the beginning. 

I’ve always been drawn to wildlife since the beginning of my painting journey, particularly large cats. There is such power, grace, and strength in them. I know they are always going to be a part of my work, no matter how much I branch out and experiment with other subjects.

In recent years, I found a deep connection with portraits of women—by accident. I went through a brief moment in my art practice where I truly questioned my creative path. I then painted a piece to express all these feelings, without any expectations whatsoever.

I ended up with a remarkable breakthrough piece, one I know I will always come back to to remind me of how I overcame all my doubts. This piece is called Breakthrough.

I have also struggled with my identity much of my life, coming to America as a teenage immigrant. For years I’d avoided speaking my native language out loud, eating the food (in public), and hanging out with only “my kind”. I wanted to fit in with my new American friends–perfecting my English and trying to be as “American” as possible. 

When I’ve reached my thirties though, I’ve felt this pull to know more of my heritage and homeland, the Philippines. I realize that I can be both. It’s possible to love the world I was born into and the one I built a life in, simultaneously.

Now, as if to make up for it, I incorporate as much of my homeland in my work as I can–from the vibrant colors of the tropical islands, its flora and fauna, to the strength and resilience I’ve discovered in myself from navigating the two worlds.

All of these elements (wildlife, women, tropics) combined with my curious love for self-growth, make up what I currently lay on the canvas. 

I hope to inspire you fellow wanderers and lovers of life to find your inner power, be grounded in who you are, have courage to pursue what you love, and dare to create the life you want.