Self-taught Filipino artist to get International Prize Phoenix for the Arts

John Paul Francisco Sto. Domingo, 27, is the first Filipino artist to receive the International Prize Phoenix for the Arts in Venice, Italy, this June 12. Photo courtesy of John Paul Francisco Sto. Domingo.

A 27-year-old self-taught artist from Teresa, Rizal, has been chosen to receive the prestigious first-edition International Prize Phoenix for the Arts in Venice, Italy. He will be the first-ever Filipino to be presented with the award.

John Paul Francisco Sto. Domingo, known as Juan El Pintor, said in a  post on his Facebook page that Dr. Salvatore Russo, one of the curators of the reputable event, sent him an invitation to receive the prize along with other artist awardees during the awards ceremony at the Scuola Grande di San Teodoro in Venice on June 12.

“It’s such an incredible honor to be recognized for my passion and dedication to art. I couldn’t be more grateful for this opportunity! Thank you to everyone who has supported me along this creative journey,” Sto. Domingo wrote in his post.

Inspiration for the masterpiece

Sto. Domingo’s nominated artwork, “LuzViMinda,” showcases the diversity of the Philippine landscape and culture through striking geometric shapes, contrasting colors, and intricate patterns to stir emotions.

“At the center of the painting, we can see the iconic image of three women who bring our country on the pedestal. They’re the faces of this country who transform, inspire, and influence not only the Filipino people but also the world. Indeed, they are the epitome of the ‘Filipinos of the Future,’” Sto. Domingo expounded.

Photo shows the nominated artwork of John Paul Francisco Sto. Domingo, “LuzViMinda.” (Photo courtesy of John Paul Francisco Sto. Domingo)

Sto. Domingo added that the works of Hernando R. Ocampo, a Filipino national artist, and Pablo Picasso, a renowned cubism artist, highly inspired his masterpiece.

Further, Sto. Domingo expressed that his family, himself, and the people who believe in him also inspire him to continue making outstanding artworks.

“My inspiration for doing [the] artwork is, of course, my family, myself, and all the people [who] believe in my talent because I believe that nothing can go wrong in expressing yourself and art can change the world,” Sto. Domingo said.

Colorful journey to success

Sto. Domingo told the Inquirer that he has been doing artworks since he was 13 and started receiving recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic when people began to buy his works.

He has been invited to local and international art exhibitions and has exhibited his paintings at the International Art Festival 2023 in Busan, South Korea, and the Philippine-Vietnamese Art Exhibit 2022 at Resorts World, Manila.

John Paulo Francisco Sto. Domingo exhibits “Mt. Diwata: The Golden Mountain” at the Busan International Art Festival 2023. The photo at right shows his exhibited work, “Magwayen.” at the Philippine-Vietnamese Art Exhibit 2022. Photos courtesy of John Paul Francisco Sto. Domingo.

As a self-taught artist, Sto. Domingo mentioned that most of his knowledge and experiences came from other artists.

Sto. Domingo also shared that what he mainly needs now is financial help, as art materials are expensive.

“Art materials are quite expensive. Without my collectors, I will not be able to continuously create masterpieces,” Sto Domingo said.

Message for the Filipino art community

Sto. Domingo advised aspiring Filipino artists to continue pursuing art and practicing daily to hone their skills and talent. He also reiterated that they should believe in themselves, be humble, and always thank the Lord.

“It is such an honor to receive the award as the first Filipino recipient. I want to say to the Filipino artist community that this award is not just a representation of myself but the whole Filipino artist community. As the saying goes, ‘Success for One, Success for All.’ This award is for all of us Filipinos,” Sto. Domingo expressed.

—BRITNEY MARIE R. USABAL (INTERN)