JC Castillo

John Clark “JC” Salazar Castillo’s artistic journey was woven into the fabric of his family’s rich heritage of painters, immersing him in the world of art from the moment of his birth. With a lineage that boasts his grandfather, Nelson Castillo, the illustrious “Father of Miniature Painting” in the Philippines; his father, Janddie Castillo, the trailblazing “Master of Splash Art”, and his mother, Maricris Salazar-Castillo, who paints with the grace of impressionism, JC’s artistic upbringing was both nurturing and inspiring.

The seeds of JC’s own artistic identity were sown during his early years, crystallizing in his first group exhibition titled “C3G Castillo Three Generations” at the age of nine. This remarkable event marked the convergence of three generations of visual artists, a testament to the Castillo family’s artistic legacy. Despite the weight of familial reputation, JC embraced the challenge. Stepping into the realm of creativity with a determination to forge his own artistic path.

With his father as his guiding light, JC’s artistic journey unfolded through watercolors and paper, a medium that played witness to his growth. Those cherished moments of creating alongside his father led to the discovery of his distinct abstract style, which he fittingly christened “Curvestract.” A fusion of curves, strokes, and swipes, Curvestract embodies a unique non-representational style that he carefully nurtured over time. It represents not only his artistic expression but also his spiritual journey, intertwining the curves of his initials in playful, oceanic harmony.

Drawing inspiration from his family’s stories and a profound respect for history and culture, JC’s art captures the essence of time and tradition. With representational pieces and seascapes, he delicately interweaves his appreciation for the past into his vibrant canvases.

To JC, art is more than a skill; it’s a divine blessing that calls for sharing. As an artist, he endeavors to ignite curiosity and inspire contemplation in his viewers. With unwavering support from his family, he faced the challenges of the pandemic head-on, channeling his emotions onto his canvas and finding solace and strength in his artistic expression.

For those aspiring to tread the artistic path, JC offers a poignant message of hope and self-belief. He reminds fellow creators to remain positive, embrace their talents, and never forget the Divine Creator who bestowed these gifts.

The world eagerly awaits the blossoming of this young artist who not only believes in his own potential but also holds his faith and family close to his heart. John Clark Castillo’s journey is a testament to the intertwining of artistic passion and spiritual connection, destined to leave an indelible mark on the Philippine art scene.