Artist’s Spotlight
Flor Baradi Beyond Artistic Boundaries
Emerging as a dynamic force in the art world, Flor Baradi seamlessly balances multiple roles with finesse and unwavering passion. As the co-owner and managing director of Artepintura Gallery since its inception in 2001, she has cultivated a nurturing haven for artists, both emerging and established. Beyond the confines of the gallery, Flor’s commitment to the arts extends to her tenure as the board secretary of the Executive Council of NCAG (National Commission on Art Galleries) under NCCA (National Commission on Culture and the Arts) from 2020 to 2022.
Flor’s artistic journey is as diverse as it is compelling, traversing various mediums and creative endeavors. From her early days as an assistant designer for jeweler Hans Brumann, where her exclusive “Rizal” collection adorned prestigious venues like The Cultural Center of the Philippines, to her triumphs in jewelry design competitions sponsored by De Beers, Flor’s creative brilliance knows no bounds.
However, Flor’s artistic pursuits extend far beyond mere accolades and exhibitions. She is a passionate advocate for environmental protection, co-organizing the UGPAANAN Visual Tales of the Agusan Wetland Sanctuary. This collaborative initiative with the Agusan Artists Association and the Balangay Artists Association aims to raise awareness about environmental fragility and the urgent need for conservation efforts.
Flor’s dedication to empowering women permeates her artistry. Through her thought-provoking series “Grotesques,” she challenges societal norms and celebrates body positivity and self-love. Her leadership in organizing all-female art exhibitions through groups like Female Art Addicts and Floral Artists Manila underscores her commitment to amplifying female voices in the art community.
Her exceptional talent and contributions have earned widespread recognition, including her selection as one of the regional winners representing the NCR in the prestigious Philippine Art Awards. Her captivating work, “From the Dust of Supernovas,” explores the profound interconnectedness between humanity and the natural world. Additionally, her painting adorned the halls of De Centrale Cultural Center in Gent, Belgium, as part of Belgian Women’s Day activities in 2022.
In May 2023, Flor was honored with the esteemed First Outstanding University of Sto. Tomas Atelier Honours Award, a testament to her enduring impact and unwavering dedication to the arts. With each brushstroke and every endeavor she undertakes, Flor Baradi pioneers beyond artistic boundaries, enriching the creative landscape with her boundless creativity, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to her craft.