A College of Fine Arts and Design (CFAD) graduate and multi-awarded realist painter launched his visual biography on Sept. 15 at the UST Main Building lobby.
Painting alumnus Florentino “Jun” Impas Jr.’s book titled, “Pangandoy: The Art of Jun Impas,” features essays and stories about his artistic techniques, early inspirations, and career milestones.
Pangandoy, a Cebuano term that roughly translates to “yearnings” or “dreams,” was a reference to Impas’s first solo exhibition in 1988.
The book, which took over a year to complete, was published by Bamboovillage Publishing to mark Impas’s 25 years as a full-time artist.
“Included in this book is my life story, how it was very difficult for me when I started. I hope I get to inspire someone through these stories,” Impas told the Varsitarian.
Pangandoy has essays by Cebu-based writers Jay Nathan Jore, Alyssa Selanova, and Sayoka Takemura, on how Impas persisted in becoming an artist despite financial hardships.
During the book launch, Impas also held a mini-exhibition of his paintings.
Among the works displayed were his oil on canvas paintings, “Bonfire Dance,” “Wash Day,” “Harvest Time,” and “Manobo Elder,” a portrait of an indigenous man.
Dream
Born in Danao City, Cebu to a fisherman and a housewife, Impas began his artistic journey at the age of seven when he started drawing.
Impas said he looked for jobs when he was in high school to sustain his education and eventually, get a college degree.
After the UST Rector and CFAD dean saw his works, the realist painter continued his studies in the University.
“At first, I declined because I said to them, ‘I am a full-time artist and I have a family already,’” Impas said. “After two years, I thought I would not graduate because I had so many exhibits and clients.”
In 2018, Impas graduated from the University at age 48 with a merit award for his thesis on the Nazareno of Quiapo, Manila.
Despite challenges, young artists must persist in creating art, Impas said.
“Dream–it doesn’t mean that if you’re self-taught, you are hopeless,” Impas said.
“Just be consistent […] Even if you only have a pencil as your material, you can create something. Then, without you even noticing, you’ll eventually be at the top.” With reports from Jenna Mariel A. Gonzales
