Nicco Tiu, a remarkable 12-year-old with a passion for art and an adoration for penguins. Nicco’s world is a colorful blend of creativity and joy, deeply influenced by his family and friends. With a paintbrush in hand or sketchbook by his side, he spends countless hours bringing his imaginative ideas to life, often inspired by the adorable waddling creatures he loves so much. His natural talent for art serves as a joyful outlet, and his fascination with penguins reminds him of the beauty of nature’s quirks. For Nicco, life is about embracing creativity, cherishing his loved ones, and finding delight in the simplest of things.

Amanda Atayde is the first baby of the Sunshine Place Art Class. Despite having a difficult schedule with her school activities, she makes sure that she still has time for her first love“ painting” with the guidance of her art instructor.

She is now 18 years old and a grade 10 student. She started at Sunshine Place at the age of six (6) years old; that is why she is one of the pioneer kid’s art students.

Amanda is a 15-year-old emerging painter whose artistic journey is marked by curiosity and creative exploration.With a growing command of color and texture, she brings a whimsical yet thoughtful touch to her work, imbuing each piece with emotion and character. Amanda enjoys experimenting with different themes, allowing her art to evolve organically as she continues to learn and refine her technique. Passionate and hopeful, she aspires to connect with others through her paintings, believing in the quiet power of visual art to inspire and resonate.

Conchitina Bernardo has been painting for 6 years now at Sunshine Place . While she embarked on this field later in life, it has opened a wealth of creativity and satisfaction, which comes with the discovery of an ability that lay dormant for many years.

She is grateful that this new phase in her life gives her a sense of accomplishment. Especially after a painting is completed and is affirmed by those who enjoy her works of art.

I’m Eric. I am a self-taught artist transforming a lifelong passion into my professional career. What began as a personal creative outlet has developed into a dedicated focus on visual storytelling through my artwork. Currently, I specialize in abstract art, and I look forward to sharing my ongoing journey of growth, creation, and professional connection through my work.

Ever since she could remember, Hannah has always had a casual interest in drawing and painting. Lately, though, she has decided to take this interest seriously, and pursue formal lessons. In this new artistic journey, she now enjoys exploring new techniques, styles, color mixing, and mediums. This painting is the fruit of her artistic learning, and she would like to share it in her first participation in an art exhibit.

Joaquin Riego is a 15-year-old Filipino artist and high school student who works primarily in acrylic painting and classical drawing. He is inspired by impressionism and the works of Fernando Amorsolo. He often paints still life and landscapes, drawing from Filipino culture and everyday scenes to create timeless moments on canvas.

At a very young age, Joaquin has been drawn to sketching and finding ways to portray moments in time, developing a habit of close observation. In a world that often overlooks traditional aesthetics, he aims to revive them by capturing light, detail, and feeling in ways that speak to both memory and meaning.

LEO R. REYES (a.k.a./sig. LRReyes)

A novice in the art scene, Leo R. Reyes (a.k.a./sig. LRReyes) is a seasoned corporate executive and a semi-retired businessman with wide-ranging exposure in the furniture and carpet manufacturing industry, as well as in interior finishing and construction works.

Before he entered the world of interior design, Reyes had several years of experience in the corporate world, having served as a top executive of two of the largest food and beverage manufacturing entities in the Philippines. Reyes’ immersion in visual art was inspired by his wife, who left behind a wide selection of interior design creations, including paintings and sculptural works by national artists, including H. R. Ocampo and Larry Alcala, as well as popular artists Mauro Malang, Norma Belleza, Angel Cacnio, Manuel Baldemor, and Cesar Amorsolo, among others.

Reyes’ wife, Yolly, who passed away in 2021, served as his biggest driving force to journey into the world of visual art. To have a feel and glimpse of what his wife loved and enjoyed enough to pursue as her professional career despite harsh criticism of it being a niche venture at the time.

Parallel to his wife, Reyes studied business administration and holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism (AB Journalism) and a master’s degree in business administration (MBA).

Aside from his informal knowledge of the arts, Reyes is being mentored by art teacher Loida “Laiyan” Balubayan with professional guidance from seasoned artist Fidel Sarmiento, president of the Art Association of the Philippines.

Loida ‘Laiyan” Balubayan never stop discovering the magic of art. “Walang mali sa Art basta nasa puso mo”. Teaching Kids and beginners is my inspiration why I don’t stop discovering the world of Art. At the same time teaching them, is also a process of continues learning on Art for me.

At 82, Lolita Feliciano has faced many life challenges, yet she chooses to embrace positivity daily, reflected in the vibrant colors of her art. Each brushstroke captures the sun’s warmth and energy, a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue one’s passions and find joy in creativity. Having started painting just 2 years ago at Sunshine Place, she is now participating in Sunshine Place’s s Group Art Exhibit for the 3rd time, proving that age is no barrier to discovering new horizons.

At 15 year old, Regina Beatrix Elizabeth Ang Lim has already discovered a passion for art and a heart that knows no limits. A grade 11 student, Regina’s artistic journey emerged 2 summers ago when she fell in love with acrylic painting. What sets Regina apart is not just her love for brushes and strokes, but her deep appreciation for the Impressionist style of painting. Regina’s artistic journey isn’t solely about personal growth; it’s a tribute to her younger brother, G. As a gesture of unwavering support, Regina has pledged the proceeds from her acrylic pieces to various organizations that benefit indigents and differently abled individuals, Regina paints a message of hope, inclusion, and the belief that every individual possesses unique talents that can be celebrated and cherished. She aims to create positive changes in the world of special needs, one artwork at a time.

Ruby Banzon-Caragay has loved art since she was a child. Now retired, she finally has the time to explore painting and drawing. With each brushstroke, her work reflects the joy and passion she feels at this chapter of her life. For Ruby, retirement means having all the time to be more active and creative.