funkthenorm (b. 1980, Pampanga, Philippines)
From a young age, I felt a strong pull towards visual art. However, societal expectations and a desire for financial stability led me to pursue a career in graphic design. Throughout my professional journey, I honed my skills in visual communication working in PR and Events companies, developing a keen eye for typography, layout, and visual storytelling. Despite the demands of this career, I never abandoned my artistic pursuits, continuing to sketch, draw, and paint in my spare time.
In 2016, my watercolor piece titled Faith in Black was selected as a top entry in the Metrobank Art & Design Excellence competition, marking my first art sale and solidifying my desire to pursue a more dedicated artistic path.
The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 provided the catalyst I needed. With the world slowed down, I rediscovered the profound joy of artistic expression. I began creating prolifically, painting, drawing, filling sketchbooks and sharing my work on social media.
This period marked the emergence of funkthenorm, my artistic persona through which I explore the complexities of human existence. My work often features figures, both solitary and interconnected, reflecting themes of isolation, nostalgia, connection, and the quiet beauty of the human experience. These themes are central to my recent piece, "Unity (an ode to no one)," which was shortlisted for the 2025 Philippine Art Awards. My foundation in graphic design informs my approach to composition and color as I experiment with pencil, watercolor, pen & ink, and other traditional media. I am now dedicated to sharing my vision and continuing my journey as a visual artist.
Education
1998-2002 Bachelor of Fine Arts Major in Advertising, Institute of Architecture & Fine Arts, Far Eastern University.
Awards / Exhibits
Philippine Art Awards, 2025-2026 - Shortlisted
MADE (Metrobank Art & Design Excellence), 2016 - Top Entry
33rd Shell National Students Art Competition, 2000 - Finalist