Anton Belardo, also known by her whimsical pseudonym Jellyfish Kisses, emerges as a multidisciplinary artist of extraordinary versatility. Renowned for her dynamic artistic portfolio, Belardo has left an indelible mark with multiple solo exhibitions both locally and internationally. Her artistic vision transcends traditional boundaries, manifesting in mixed media paintings, illustrations, and site-specific installations, among others. Recognized as a featured artist for the prestigious Art Fair Philippines in 2020, Belardo’s creative prowess knows no bounds. In her spotlight work, Belardo ingeniously reinterprets the ballerina archetype, transforming her into a fierce glamazon set against the backdrop of her surreal universe adorned with magical flowers and entities that have become the unmistakable hallmark of the enchanting world of Jellyfish Kisses.

Arturo T. Sanchez, Jr., a contemporary Filipino artist based in Angono, Rizal, boasts a prolific career marked by his participation in numerous group exhibitions at prestigious venues such as the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the Jorge B. Vargas Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Manila, and Art Fair Philippines, He has showcased his versatile creativity through paintings, mirror-integrated mixed media pieces, acrylic collages in resin, and installations. Renowned for his distinctive approach, he employs reinforced fiberglass resin, hand-molded epoxy, acrylic, and polyurethane in his featured work. In this collection, Sanchez skillfully deconstructs the conventional image of a ballerina, transforming her from a delicate figure into a dynamic individual swirling with visible energies, challenging preconceived notions of fragility and showcasing the powerful grace inherent in his artistic vision.

Benji Reyes stands as a preeminent figure in contemporary furniture design and craftsmanship, earning widespread acclaim for his innovative approach and mastery of functional sculptures that have profoundly influenced the sculptural style of Philippine contemporary furniture. Reyes has dedicated more than half of his life to woodworking, shaping his artistic vocation. Early in his career, his free-spirited approach set him apart as he challenged conventional material axiomatics in carpentry, notably eschewing the use of nails to fasten pieces of wood together. In his featured work, Reyes presents a voluptuous sculptural figure imbued with the grace of a ballerina, crafted from molave wood reclaimed from a 200-year-old demolished house. This piece not only showcases Reyes' technical prowess but also exemplifies his commitment to sustainability and the timeless elegance of his creations.

Ces Eugenio, an accomplished artist hailing from Cainta, Rizal, has left an indelible mark on the art scene with her dynamic presence in numerous group shows and a remarkable portfolio of five solo exhibitions. Her latest endeavor, As Nature Takes its Course, unfolded at Pintô Art Museum. In this exhibition, Eugenio presents her sculptural interpretation of pointe shoes crafted from molded resin, cast resin, driftwood, synthetic fiber, industrial, and acrylic paint. Departing from the pristine, Eugenio deliberately incorporates visible wear and tear on the pointe shoes, with mushrooms sprouting, offering a unique perspective that honors the grand tradition of ballet while embedding it within the broader context of nature, seamlessly intertwining the elegance of dance with the organic cycles of life.

CJ Tañedo seamlessly merges the visual techniques of Renaissance art masters with the modernity of the 21st century. His artistry is a rich tapestry of diverse disciplines within traditional painting, skillfully blending realism with elements of impressionism, expressionism, and symbolism, all coalescing into a distinctive figurative style. Tañedo's dedication to his craft is evident in his adoption of the Flemish technique, layering his artworks meticulously to achieve a depth that pays homage to classical methods. His innovative approach extends to the drying process, employing various methods to expedite the layers of paint and create a harmonious composition. In his featured work, Tañedo captures the essence of a ballerina engaged in a warm-up, head slightly tilted, and feet gracefully outstretched. The ethereal quality of the dancer seamlessly blending into the background adds a mesmerizing dimension to the piece, showcasing Tañedo's ability to infuse classical themes with contemporary allure.

Chino Yulo has introduced his works into the art world through solo exhibitions held at Pintô Art Museum and 1335 Mabini, solidifying his status as the featured artist at the Visayas Art Fair. Notably, his work has transcended conventional spaces, becoming part of the immersive underwater museum presented by Pintô. Yulo’s artistic language is defined by the innovative use of his signature materials—warped acrylic and etched aluminum—which he orchestrates into a visual symphony that harmonizes with the wonders of the natural world and delves into specific historical facets. In his featured work, Yulo captures the graceful silhouette of a ballet dancer seemingly in flight, her skirt fashioned from blue acrylic sheet. The sculpture exudes a remarkable sense of lightness and airiness, a testament to Yulo’s masterful choice of materials and his ability to infuse his creations with both aesthetic beauty and emotive resonance.

Dana Bote, an artist rooted in Antipolo City, is a distinguished alumna of the University of the Philippines, Diliman, where she earned her BFA degree in Design and Visual Communications. Stepping into the art scene with finesse, Bote has contributed to various group shows, including the women-focused exhibition Luminosities organized by Pinto Art Museum. In her artistic practice, Bote harnesses the expressive qualities of color, skillfully building up pigments to craft figurative imagery that captivates the viewer. Her featured works showcase a unique graphic aesthetic, employing blocks and swirls of color to evoke figures in balletic poses. Through this distinctive approach, Bote’s art breathes life into her subjects, echoing the fluid and graceful movements of a dancer with an expressive and dynamic use of pigment.

Daniel dela Cruz, an esteemed sculptor driven by an impassioned love for tangible forms and a lifelong curiosity, has dedicated decades to exploring the depths of the human condition, the challenges of modern life, and our collective pursuit of transcendence. His creations, ranging from robust sculptures to intricate pieces, convey a profound depth of thought and emotion. Beyond his artistic pursuits, dela Cruz remains dedicated to fellow artists, leading the Visual Arts Helping Hands Foundation, providing support for medical issues. His artistic journey, marked by innovation in form and technique, resonates within the visual arts community. In his featured works, dela Cruz presents a trio of sculptures depicting ballerinas in dynamic poses, standing on their toes on revolving stainless steel, encapsulating the grace and movement intrinsic to both sculpture and dance.

Demetrio Dela Cruz stands as one of today’s most revered realist painters, a luminary in his field who also holds the pivotal role of resident curator at the Boston Art Gallery. Throughout his illustrious career, he has graced various galleries with solo exhibitions, showcasing his mastery of the trompe l’oeil technique. In his featured work, Dela Cruz skillfully introduces a touch of humor to the iconic Vitruvian man by da Vinci, renowned for its unparalleled accuracy in representing the male form. However, Dela Cruz adds a whimsical twist by outfitting the figure in fuchsia ballerina shoes, seamlessly blending humor with a nod to ballet as perhaps the ultimate expression of the human body in dance. This artistic juxtaposition not only showcases Dela Cruz’s technical prowess but also reflects his ability to infuse classical subjects with contemporary wit and a deep appreciation for various forms of artistic expression.

Erwin Leaño showcases a versatile portfolio encompassing landscapes, still life, and figures, each piece radiating a profound sense of calmness and tranquility. Finding solace in the serenity of landscapes and forest scenery, Leaño’s recent works have been dedicated to capturing the essence of nature. Notably, he was the featured artist of Pintô Art Museum during the Art Fair Philippines in 2020 with his solo exhibit, Silent Forest. His most recent solo exhibit, Forest Bathing, held at Pintô Art Gallery in 2022, further highlights his commitment to capturing the contemplative beauty of nature. In his featured work, Leaño delicately renders a ballerina quietly tying and fixing her pointe shoes, possibly before a performance. The soothing and contemplative quality of the piece is skillfully conveyed through his use of monochromatic tones, inviting viewers into a moment of serene reflection.

Ferdie Montemayor, a founding figure of the Antipolo-based artist group Salingpusa, has played a pivotal role in the local artistic community. Initially engaging as a collaborator among local painters and peers, he later assumed the role of a mentor, guiding and inspiring a younger generation of artists who would go on to achieve renown in their own right. Montemayor’s work is profoundly shaped by the influence of his surroundings, particularly his Antipolo abode, as seen in his iconic “Bayan” series, which critically examines the urbanization of key cities in the Philippines during the 1990s. Evolving from depictions of a town, Montemayor's subject matter has shifted to dynamic scenes of action, capturing the energy of triathlons and races. In his featured work, Montemayor’s frenetic brushwork takes center stage, portraying ballerinas seemingly floating in space. Through his evocative lines and strokes, Montemayor conjures a sense of grace and ethereality, showcasing the versatility and dynamism inherent in his artistic expression.

Gerardo B. Jimenez rediscovered the world of watercolors in 2015 after a period of sporadic painting. Renowned for his luminous watercolors, Jimenez possesses a unique ability to capture the ethereal play of light, creating mesmerizing effects that bring his subjects to life. Making the bold transition to full-time artistry in 2018, he draws inspiration from his passions, including gardening, business, and his background in athletics. Exhibiting a disciplined approach to art, Jimenez has presented two solo exhibits that eloquently reflect his diverse experiences in farming, restaurant interiors, and fencing. In his featured works, Jimenez showcases his mastery of watercolor, skillfully depicting ballet dancers in the intimate moments of practice, their backs turned to the viewer. The extension of their arms and legs conveys a mood of quiet contemplation and eager anticipation, capturing the essence of the art form with grace and eloquence.

Guerrero Habulan consistently unravels the intricate interplay of contradictory forces shaping Philippine reality by seamlessly weaving together various figurative styles and approaches—from hyperrealism to pop surrealism to the "ready-made" images of silkscreen printing. Through his signature method, Habulan synchronously presents layers and dimensions that would otherwise remain invisible, providing viewers with profound insights into the fluid and contested nature of identities in the Philippine context. Employing allegories and symbolism, his work mirrors the seductive surface of spectacle. In his featured work, Habulan unveils a captivating scene—a ballerina sitting on the floor, legs outstretched, savoring a happy, intimate moment, while a superimposed head looks courageously towards the future. This composition reflects Habulan’s ability to blend narrative depth with visual innovation, inviting viewers to engage with the complexity of time.

Hermes Alegre has become synonymous with the enchanting portrayal of the Filipina maiden, recognized for its overtly seductive allure and wrapped in a quiet sense of mystery. Operating within a romantic aesthetic, Alegre imparts a self-absorbed look to the faces of his women, fostering a captivating connection with the viewer even as the subjects maintain an air of introspection. Alegre’s Filipinas are set against a backdrop of lush vegetation, emphasizing their natural allure. His distinctive merging of nature and maiden showcases extreme stylization, characterized by the confident eloquence of his brushstroke, sharp contours, and dynamic poses. In his featured works, crafted with oil pastel on canvas, Alegre presents ballerinas in moments of repose, leveraging the medium to render a sense of translucency on their skin and clothing. The artist aim’s appears to be capturing these figures in moments when their beauty is most palpable, adding a layer of timeless elegance to his already mesmerizing portrayals.


John Paul Antido intricately stitches together the Filipino experience through his vivid tapestries, employing a distinctive style that harmoniously blends Filipiniana, children’s book illustrations, turn-of-the-century aesthetics, and surrealism. Thematic exploration is at the heart of Antido’s work, delving into the interconnectedness of geography, identity, and the dynamic tapestry of Filipino culture. Antido’s figuration reflects the shared national identity of Filipinos, emphasizing community bonds and a sense of collective heritage. With thematic consistency across exhibitions, Antido offers a poignant commentary on enduring aspects of the Filipino experience, exploring the choices that shape both individual and collective identities. In his featured work, Antido presents a captivating tableau, skillfully integrating ballet dancers with the festive Christmas celebration of the Philippines, showcasing his ability to weave diverse elements into a rich narrative that resonates with the depth and dynamism of Filipino culture.

Jerson Samson, hailing from Antipolo City, stands as an influential artist and mentor, leaving an indelible impact on the artistic landscape. Beyond the boundaries of his city, Samson has served as a guiding force for numerous artists, extending his mentorship to the talented members of the art collective SangViaje. Proficient in various media, Samson’s early depictions of chaotic city slices have seamlessly evolved into highly expressive portraits that capture the essence of human emotion. His sculptural prowess is evident in hand-molded epoxy creations, featuring archetypal figures that resonate with the grand narratives of humanity. In his featured work, Samson unveils his distinctive stick-like figures, portraying a male dancer lifting a ballerina aloft with linear grace and vitality—a choreographic icon that breathes life into the captivating stories woven by his artistic vision.

Jim Orencio stands as one of the most esteemed painters dedicated to capturing the beauty of the natural world. With an impressive repertoire of solo exhibitions and a curator's touch for various galleries, Orencio has solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the art scene. His paintings, characterized by a vividly atmospheric mood, serve as windows into the heart of nature, skillfully portraying its diverse and ever-changing landscapes. Beyond aesthetics, Orencio’s work carries a poignant message, acting as a gentle reminder of our collective responsibility to protect and preserve the environment. In his featured work, Orencio takes a captivating departure by returning to painting people, showcasing a male and a female ballet dancer immersed in practice. Their bodies are elegantly expressed diagonally, with outstretched limbs, and their faces convey the emotional depth required for the dance, offering a glimpse into a tender human expression.

Angelico “Jik" Villanueva, who studied Fine Arts the University of the Philippines, Diliman, embarked on a creative journey that transitioned from painting to the challenging realm of sculpture, drawn to the complexities of working with three-dimensional materials like wood, marble, and brass. His artistic prowess has gained international acclaim, with exhibitions spanning New York, Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Singapore, and numerous other locations. In his featured works, Villanueva masterfully captures the essence of dance through a duet between a male and female ballet dancer. One rendered in the reflective surface of brass and the other in a patina-like copper and brass, the sculptures, though monumental, delicately embody the grace and beauty inherent in ballet’s iconic pas de deux.

John Paul “JP” Duray wore many hats before discovering his true artistic calling. In 2013, captivated by the world of art, he delved into sketches and paintings, evolving from portraits to surreal pieces, including the inception of his distinctive work, Banana Man. His artistic trajectory reached new heights when invited to the Scope Art Fair in Miami, showcasing Emerie, a sculptural chair resembling a pin cushion, demonstrating his flair for merging art and functionality. Known for whimsical sculptures that encapsulate the unique humor of Filipinos, Duray’s creations resonate with charm. In his featured works, he skillfully renders a ballerina in an arabesque position titled “Don't Bite the Hand that Feeds You," where an ostensible mosquito adds a humorous twist by biting the hand of the ballerina. Another suite of sculptures features pointe shoes assuming the shape of a foot in a tiptoe, showcasing Duray's ability to infuse wit into his art.

Katrina Cuenca emerges as a luminary in the art world, celebrated for her distinctive approach to highly expressive floral forms set against a sumptuous backdrop of opulent gold leaf. Her paintings serve as a testament to her mastery, skillfully portraying striated petals bursting forth with profuse vitality, creating a visual symphony of color and movement. The harmonious interplay between her paintings and sculptures becomes evident as her sculptural forms echo the graceful striations, curving and flowing in tandem with the implied movement of the artistic narrative. Cuenca’s art is a celebration of beauty through vivid choices of color, shape, and visual harmony, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for the audience. In her featured work, “Oberon,” Cuenca captivates with sheets of striated copper that intricately capture the flow and dynamism of ballet, paying homage to Oberon, the king of the fairies in medieval folklore, in a mesmerizing dance of form and texture.

Keiye Miranda is distinguished for her mastery in capturing the ethereal beauty of underwater scenes through painting. Her exhibitions in various galleries bear testament to her artistic prowess, while her current role overseeing the Giant Dwarf Art Space in Angono, Rizal, reflects her commitment to fostering artistic expression in beloved hometown. Miranda’s oeuvre often centers around female figures, frequently depicting self-portraits or individuals close to her heart. In her featured work, the enchanting “Rhapsody in Blue,” Miranda unveils a mesmerizing ballet dancer gracefully submerged underwater, her diaphanous skirt flowing in harmony with the aquatic surroundings. The painting celebrates the interplay of color and seamlessly blends the dancer into her watery environment, showcasing Miranda’s ability to capture the transparency and reflective nature of water with unparalleled artistry.

Orley Ypon, hailing from Toledo, Cebu, stands as a formidable figure in the Philippine art scene, gaining widespread acclaim through his illustrious career. His artistic journey took a significant turn in 2001 when he won First Prize in the Art Association of the Philippines' National On-The-Spot Painting Competition, marking the inception of a series of accolades. The artist’s global recognition continued with his participation in the Art Renewal Center's International Salons, where he clinched 1st place in the Figurative Category for his piece, “Resurrection,” in 2011/2012. His featured work gracefully captures a ballerina turning in space on pointe, subtly supported by a male dancer, with her full smile offering a glimpse into the serene composure maintained amidst the intricacies of ballet.

Othoniel “Otto" Neri, a native of Antipolo now based in Cavite, emerges as a versatile artist seamlessly navigating between abstraction and figuration with a distinctive style characterized by thick brushstrokes and an impasto technique. As a member of the Durian Collective, Neri contributes to a group dedicated to interpreting Philippine historical events through art. In his featured work, Neri skillfully captures a dancer in the act of adjusting the straps of her pointe shoes while maintaining a graceful pose, with another dancer delicately emerging in the background. The artist’s unique impasto style leaves an indelible mark on the tutu skirt of the ballerina, infusing it with texture and vivacity, showcasing Neri’s ability to evoke emotion and narrative through his art.

Pearle Saprid, an artist driven by a profound appreciation for textures, channels her passion into the creation of captivating 2D mixed-media pieces predominantly using paint and wires. Beyond the materiality of her art, Saprid’s unique touch is evident in her paint strokes and lines, which deliberately showcase an “uneven” finish, creating a visually intriguing interplay of textures and layers. The year 2020, marked by the global pandemic, provided Saprid the opportunity to delve deeper into her art, leading to the discovery of her distinctive technique and artistic identity through experimentation with different mediums and styles. In her five featured works, a fusion of mixed media and wood, Saprid skillfully presents ballerinas in various scenarios— from the intimacy of practice to the grandeur of performance. Notably, her signature wires, meticulously held in place by pins, accentuate the bodily silhouettes of the dancers, adding a layer of dynamism to the overall composition.

Pranz Kaeno Billones, a self-taught photographer, embarked on his journey as a freelance contributor for diverse local lifestyle, travel, and fashion publications, along with engaging in a
variety of commercial projects. His expertise flourished as he transitioned to capturing the dynamic essence of competitive sports for the digital platform of a sports-oriented television network. Intrigued by movement, he collaborated with friends involved in aerial dance pursuits and later teamed up with Pintô. Notably, his documentation of the collaboration with Ballet Philippines served as a valuable reference for the participating artists in this creative endeavor. Billones presents a quartet of photographic works in black and white, printed on Hahnemühle photo rag, capturing not only the intricate poses of the dancers but certain emotional attitudes connected to the choreography.

Roma Valles has had four solo exhibits in major galleries since 2005 and active participation in group exhibitions dating back to her college days. Renowned for her proficiency in oil, she mastered large-scale hyperrealism, crafting images that intricately balance abstraction and details of reality. Despite a hiatus from the mainstream art scene while raising two boys, Valles continued to paint and share her artistic knowledge through lessons and workshops for both children and adults. Her artistic evolution is evident in her exploration of various media, including cement, GI wire, acrylic, paper, and found objects for her abstract pieces. Valles seamlessly merged her abstract style and expression with realism in her recent art. In her featured works, she skillfully exemplifies this abstract-figurative style by depicting dancers in moments of relaxation or practice, their ethereal forms set against a backdrop that alludes to the greenery of nature, creating a narrative that extends beyond the confines of a studio.

Sandra Fabie-Gfeller stands as the preeminent chronicler of the art of dance through the evocative medium of painting, a role that resonates deeply with her own history as a ballerina in her formative years. Her paintings transcend mere representation; they become manifestations of power and grace, as dancers utilize the full capacity of their bodies to articulate the ineffable, embodying human longings and hopes that defy verbal expression. Fabie-Gfeller’s distinctive style often captures her subjects in mid-motion, forging a unity between dance and dancer, figure and ground, body and world. In her featured work, a dancer executes a pirouette subtly supported by a male counterpart, with the rapid turns implied through the blurred lines of her skirt, dress, and entire body. The background mirrors this blurring effect, inviting the viewer to feel the dynamic momentum of the turn, encapsulating the essence of dance in a visual symphony of movement and emotion.

Steph Lopez has carved a niche in Philippine contemporary visual arts through her innovative use of GI wires in sculptural creations. Meticulously fashioning her subjects from this material, Lopez’s sculptures seamlessly blend structural integrity with diaphanous qualities, allowing light to pass through the intricate works. In her recent exhibition, Rewire, Lopez delves into the realms of meditation, presenting a collection that encapsulates mandalas, neural pathways, movements, and a profound awareness of the body in space. This meticulous attention to form and detail extends to her featured work—a sculpture crafted from GI wires, acrylic epoxy spray paint, and mounted on stainless steel. Capturing an intimate moment between two ballet dancers, the piece reveals purity of form, offering viewers an appreciation of ballet at its granular, essential level.

Vincent Diñoso stands as one of the foremost artists dedicated to capturing the enduring subject of art—the nude. In his recent show, Silhouette, Shadow, Self, Diñoso unveiled a collection celebrating the male body in various states of undress. His artistic intention goes beyond mere nudity; echoing the spirit of the Greeks, Diñoso seeks to celebrate the grace, vitality, and beauty inherent in the human form. Diñoso’s is notable for his adept use of gauze, a challenging medium that, when layered, allows his subjects to create the illusion of movement in space, be it soaring to impossible heights or executing magnificent dances in the air. In his collection of featured works, Diñoso employs gauze once again, this time featuring female ballerinas. The layers of gauze, depicting a sequence of movements, create evocative transitions, showcasing his meticulous care in portraying the beauty of the body in dance, a sentiment echoed in his pen and ink works on paper.