Nelson Castillo

Father of Philippine Miniature Paintings

Renowned across borders, Nelson Castillo stands as a luminary of Filipino artistry, born in Alaminos Laguna on April 11, 1944. Bound in a union with Lucita Banuelos Castillo, a retired Elementary Teacher from Victoria, Laguna, Nelson’s story began to weave its vibrant threads.

1964 marked his ascension, crowned with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the esteemed University of Santo Tomas in Manila. It was 1968 when Nelson unveiled his brush’s whispering magic upon the canvas, shaping masterpieces that would redefine the art landscape. By 1979, his name was etched as the “Father of Miniature Painting” in the Philippines, a title not only honorary but resonant with his pioneering spirit.

In a symphony of color and precision, Nelson’s first solo show, hosted at the Manila Peninsula Hotel Fine Arts Gallery on February 6, stirred awe and adoration, each miniature masterpiece flying off its perch. As the wind carries seeds, his journey led him to the shores of the U.S. in 1981, where he transplanted his artistic soul and nurtured it amidst new horizons.

The embrace of various Asian and American Art Associations in Southern California amplified his artistic echoes. From this community, he crafted symphonies of art lessons and painting demonstrations, orchestrating his rise as the Vice President of the San Pedro Art by the Sea Art Association in 1995.

Hollywood’s embrace followed suit, as Nelson’s strokes adorned the collections of luminaries: Persis Khambatta, one of the cast of the biggest movie franchise world wide,  Star Trek; Al Stewart, the voice behind Year of the Cat; the creative magicians Bob Parkinson and Andrew Friendly; and the maestro behind the song There She Is, Miss America, Bernie Wayne. The Philippines, too, bore witness to his artistry through the eyes of Boots Anson Roa, General Alfredo Montoya, Manuel Duldulao, Linda Panlilio, and Dr. Rogelio Mendiola.

Intricate miniatures caressed the halls of esteemed hotels: Manila Peninsula, Philippine Village, Holiday Inn, Hilton, and Silahis Hotel. With every stroke, Nelson’s accolades burgeoned, adorned by the prestigious “Artist of the Year” award at the Virgo Awards (2000), Pamana Awards (2002), and Reflections XIV (2002).

More than a hundred awards glitter in his constellation, a testament to his artistic brilliance that illuminated various local and national art competitions. Televised moments etched his journey: GMA’s “Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho”, Vicky Morales’ “Good News”, Drew Arellano’s “AHA!”, Joey De Leon’s “Hayop sa Galing!”, Derek Ramsey’s extreme series, “Kaya Mo To!”, and Kim Atienza’s Matanglawin Show. ABS-CBN’s TFC Channel also beckoned Nelson’s artistry on their show “Obra.”

Nelson Castillo, a maestro whose strokes transformed canvases into worlds, a pioneer whose miniatures unfolded grandeur. A luminary, a father—his legacy painted in miniature strokes across hearts and history.