Artist’s Spotlight

Remy Boquiren: Of Art, Faith, and Resilience

In Surigao del Norte province in 1940, a remarkable journey began. Despite early challenges like the absence of her father and limited resources for her passion, Remy Boquiren‘s innate talent and indomitable spirit propelled her into a remarkable artistic journey spanning decades. At the University of Santo Tomas (U.S.T.) in the early 1960s, Remy found mentorship under esteemed art faculty members, including National Artists Victorio Edades, Diosdado Lorenzo, Galo Ocampo, and Napoleon Abueva. Their guidance ignited a lifelong pursuit of artistic excellence, awakening Remy to the world of shapes, colors, and forms.

Following her graduation in 1964, Remy embarked on a multifaceted career, balancing roles as an art editor, advertising professional, and art instructor while raising her family with her partner, Rizal Conception. In 1976, she made the courageous decision to pursue art full-time, resigning from her teaching position to focus on painting. This leap of faith led to a series of successful solo exhibitions, including the groundbreaking “The Way We Wear” in 1976, which attracted the attention of prominent art enthusiasts, including former First Lady Imelda Marcos.

Throughout her career, Remy’s artistry evolved, encompassing a diverse range of themes and subjects inspired by her life experiences. From nostalgic portrayals of childhood memories to explorations of Filipino culture and identity, her works resonate with depth, emotion, and profound insight.

Her legacy as a pioneering figure in the Philippine art scene is cemented by numerous solo and group exhibitions, showcasing her enduring passion for creativity and her unwavering commitment to her craft. Remy Boquiren’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and enthusiasts, demonstrating the transformative power of art to transcend adversity and illuminate the human spirit.