Thursday, January 29, 2026

Creating Art in Small Windows: Art Practice for Busy Professionals

Creating Art in Small Windows: Art Practice for Busy Professionals

Life is filled with meetings, deadlines, and service. Waiting for “free time” often keeps art postponed.

Finally, I found time to write this blog. To be honest, I didn’t feel like working anymore. I had just arrived from a training event, and lying down on my bed felt more appealing than having dinner. I grabbed a sandwich that was supposed to be my afternoon snack, but since I was still full, I decided to “Sharon” it—hehehe.

While resting, I opened my Google Drive and came across a video I took while practicing how to draw Keanu Reeves, my favorite actor. The original video was almost an hour long, but I sped it up. When I started sketching, I told myself I would only draw for thirty minutes or less—just practice. But once I began, I found myself wanting to improve every line. I may not have perfected it, but I spent time practicing—and that mattered.

That moment made me pause.

My life as an academy manager is constantly filled with meetings, deadlines, and service. Waiting for free time feels almost impossible. By the end of the day, I am exhausted—thankfully enough to sleep well—but I miss the precious time spent recharging through creativity.

The Myth of Free Time

This is where I realized something important.

Busy professionals often delay creativity. We rush to work, aiming to finish tasks efficiently, hoping that later we will finally have time for ourselves. Creativity is set aside because our regular jobs feed us.

Truthfully, if I focus solely on art, I don’t think I can earn what I currently receive from my regular work. And yet, art is what makes me happy.

From an art therapy perspective, creativity is not a reward—it is maintenance.
(This is not formal art therapy, but a personal practice inspired by its principles.)

When I create, I unwind and enter a state of flow. My horizon widens, and I feel emotionally and mentally balanced. While creating, I forget problems and life’s pressures. In art, there is no politics, no angst—only self-expression. It elevates my awareness of myself and the world around me.

I often describe creativity as vitamins for the soul. When I am stressed, my breathing becomes shallow and tight. But when I create, the tension in my chest and neck eases, and my mind clears.

That was when I stopped waiting for free time.

Small Windows That Matter

I forced myself—gently—to pick up my pencil and sketchbook for a 15–30 minute art session. That short session counted as practice. And when done regularly, even brief sessions lead to improvement.

Consistency matters—whether one is an amateur or an aspiring master. Just as athletes prepare daily for competition, artists must find time to practice their craft. There is no shortcut if we truly want to grow.

Below is a sped-up sketching video I made during one of these short practice sessions. It is not perfect—but it shows what can happen within a small window of time when we simply begin.


Managing Guilt When Choosing Art

I once heard my father—who is also an artist—say that art cannot pay for living expenses. That may have been true before. Today, art is a serious profession and not merely a hobby.

Still, productivity culture convinces us that work alone defines value—even when we are not fulfilled by it. But when we do what we truly love, work no longer feels heavy; it becomes meaningful.

Art and craft-making are emotionally regulating activities. If we want to be genuinely productive, we must make time for what brings joy and contentment. That is how sustainability in work begins.

This shift in mindset helped me release guilt. Choosing art was no longer indulgence—it became self-care.

Practical Ways to Create in Small Windows

Here is what worked for me.

I developed the habit of watching short reels about drawing, painting, crocheting, or even flower-making during lunch breaks. These small exposures motivate me to pick up my tools after a long day.

I also identified consistent windows in my day for a 15–30 minute uninterrupted art activity. For me, 5:00 a.m. and around 7:30 p.m. work best.

Early mornings are quiet—my laptop stays closed, distractions are minimized, and I can create before the workday begins. In the evening, if I still have energy, creating helps me release it before rest. You may discover a different time that works better for you. What matters is choosing a window with less pressure.

Finally...

I shared a sketching video to show that art doesn't have to be perfect. If we never try, how will we know where we need to improve?

If you are busy, tired, or overwhelmed, I invite you to consider this:

What would happen if you allowed yourself just fifteen minutes of creative space today?

I hope these reflections help you find—and protect—your own small windows for creativity.

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Lessons from the Canvas 2-- Art as Healing: Reflections on Art Therapy, Creativity, and Everyday Life

The Orbs: Learning from What Refuses to Settle

Unfinished Truths and Emotional Density in Art



The Orbs were created in January 2022, during the post-pandemic period. It was a time when restrictions had finally eased, and I could once again return to creating art. There was relief in that freedom—but also a heaviness that lingered.

The lessons of isolation, being on your own during the ECQ, and learning to truly value life were still very present in my heart and mind. I carried those experiences with me into the studio, whether I intended to or not.

The process itself was intuitive. I created the orbs by pushing a balloon onto wet paint—allowing chance, pressure, and movement to determine their form. I mixed gold paint with acrylic medium so it could flow more freely, then softened it with white paint so the gold would not feel too heavy.

Later, I painted a woman holding a golden apple and reaching toward a book—the Bible. For me, the golden apples represent the Word of God. They were what sustained me during those trying times. They were what helped me hold on to life when everything felt uncertain.

At the time, I did not overthink the composition. I painted from what was still unresolved.


A Gentle Reading of The Orbs

What immediately stands out to me now is movement. The central figure feels suspended—reaching forward, yet not fully grounded. There is a strong diagonal pull from left to right, suggesting longing, effort, and aspiration. Looking back, that reaching feels deeply personal. I was moving forward, but still carrying the weight of what had just passed.

What once felt “wrong” to me about this painting was not a technical error, but something harder to name. It was visual congestion.

The orbs, textures, splatters, and gold elements are all active. Individually, they are meaningful. Together, they compete for attention. The eye does not immediately know where to rest. And perhaps that is the point.

There was a time when too many intentions, emotions, and reflections existed all at once. Each one mattered. Each one had weight. But together, they became overwhelming. This painting holds that truth without apology.


Emotional Density and the Absence of Pause

The background of The Orbs is rich and expressive, but it offers very little breathing space. Everything feels important. Nothing is quiet.

For a long time, I thought this was a flaw. Now I understand it differently. It is not wrong—it is emotionally dense.

This painting was created before I fully learned the lesson of waiting. Before I learned that not everything needs to be said at once. The absence of pause mirrors a season when rest was still difficult, even after the world reopened.

In many ways, The Orbs echoes the lesson I later wrote about—patience. It shows what happens when life moves faster than our ability to process it.


The Figure at the Center

The woman in the painting is clear to me. Her gesture, her posture, her direction—they are intentional. She reaches while holding something precious. She does not abandon what sustains her as she moves forward.

What feels unresolved is not her, but the space around her. The orbs feel like thoughts, memories, prayers, and questions that have not yet settled. They hover. They remain present.

This is not a compositional failure. It is a psychological truth captured honestly.


Why I Could Not Let This Painting Go

I kept The Orbs because it holds a moment when judgment, emotion, and intuition collided. It documents a time when clarity had not yet arrived—but movement continued anyway.

The painting has never been sold. Perhaps others sense what I sense—that it is unresolved, imperfect, even uncomfortable. And yet, it remains with me.

It is less an error and more a witness.


Why The Orbs Belongs in This Series

In the context of Lessons from the Canvas, The Orbs quietly support everything I have come to believe:

It shows what happens when we act before everything has thoroughly dried.

It embodies the discomfort of sitting with imperfect outcomes.
It reminds us that not all works are meant to be resolved—some are meant to teach.

In art therapy language, this painting is not asking to be corrected.
"It is asking to be observed without judgment."

And perhaps that is the hardest lesson of all—not just in art, but in life.

Author’s Note

I write this reflection at a season when I am learning to slow down—to listen more carefully to both my art and my life. Returning to the canvas has reminded me that not everything needs to be resolved immediately, and that some lessons arrive only when we allow ourselves to pause. Through these writings, I hope to share not answers, but honest moments—where art becomes a quiet companion in understanding patience, imperfection, and grace.

Saturday, January 3, 2026

Lessons from the Canvas 1-- Art as Healing: Reflections on Art Therapy, Creativity, and Everyday Life

Lessons from the Canvas: What Painting Taught Me About Patience and Life

I have always said that art is a part of me. When I set aside my creativity, I feel as though I am losing an opportunity to truly live. Art has always been my way of breathing, reflecting, and understanding myself.

So today, let me once again share some lessons from art—how patience through painting has quietly translated into where I am now, and how the canvas continues to mirror my life decisions.


The Canvas Is an Honest Teacher

Whenever I look at a blank canvas, I feel refreshed and excited about how it might turn out. That moment of possibility is deeply comforting. This is why, whenever I feel stressed or overwhelmed by life’s challenges, I go back to basics—emptying my thoughts and my heart, and allowing myself to start anew.

The canvas teaches us to clear our muddied minds and to see the world with childlike openness. A child, they say, is tabula rasa—a blank slate. What we place on that empty surface determines how the story unfolds. In painting, what we feed the canvas—values, colors, themes, and intention—shapes the outcome.

In the same way, the elements we allow into our lives influence how our own image of life develops.


Waiting for Paint to Dry Taught Me About Patience

In creating a piece, I cannot always apply all the colors and layers in one sitting—especially when working with oil paint. Often, I have to wait for the paint to dry before adding more vibrant layers. If I rush and keep painting wet on wet, the colors may turn dull and muddy.

Of course, there are artists who master the wet-on-wet technique beautifully. But for many of us, that skill requires time and discipline. Patience is born from the desire for a better outcome. It is essential in developing artistic skill, and just as necessary in life.

Through painting, I learned that patience is not passive waiting—it is an intentional pause rooted in trust. Truly, patience is a virtue learned slowly, layer by layer.



Mistakes in Painting Resemble Life’s Wrong Turns

There are moments when I step back from a painting and feel that the finish is not right. I return to it again and again, yet still feel unsettled by the outcome. Sometimes, the elements feel noisy or overly busy—much like my painting “The Orbs.”

Each element in that work is symbolic of something I wanted to express. Yet perhaps I made the wrong choices in color composition, or failed to create a natural flow that matched my original intention.

When I encounter mistakes like these, I stop. I do not erase them. These errors resemble life’s wrong turns—moments when judgment falters, when decisions do not lead where we hoped. Looking at this painting now reminds me that I do not always make the right choices, and that awareness itself is a lesson.

These mistakes teach me how to respond more wisely in similar situations in the future. I learned from them, and I continue to learn.

 



A Reflection on The Orbs

One painting that continues to teach me is The Orbs. At first glance, it feels crowded—almost noisy—with too many elements competing for attention. Yet, each orb carries a meaning I once held strongly, each color a thought or emotion I was unwilling to release. Looking at it now, I realize it mirrors a season in my life when everything felt urgent and unresolved at the same time. Instead of correcting it, I chose to keep the painting as it is. It reminds me that there are moments when clarity does not arrive immediately, and that unfinishedness itself can be a form of truth.

Knowing When to Correct—and When to Let Go

After realizing that the result was not what I intended, I chose to stop. I could have repainted the canvas white and reused it—but I didn’t. There is something about this piece that I cannot let go of.

The painting is still with me. It has never been sold. Perhaps others see it the way I do—as imperfect, unresolved, an error. And yet, it holds meaning. It captures a moment of honesty that feels too important to erase.

Art Therapy Insight: Observing Without Judgment

Professional artists often say that there is no wrong painting and no ugly work of art. Art is self-expression, and just like people, every piece has its own unique qualities.

In art therapy reflections, the practice is not about judging the outcome but about observing with compassion—allowing the process to speak before the result. We do not always know the intent or emotion behind a piece—and that, too, deserves respect. The artist has the right to express what needs to surface, even if it feels uncomfortable or unfinished.


A Takeaway

Growth happens when we stop forcing outcomes. In art, flow is essential. Working from the heart—rather than from pressure or fear—is what leads to meaningful creation.

Your work, as an artist or as a person, will find its rightful place. There is no need to rush or force success. Showcase your work. Allow it to breathe. Who knows—it may be the next piece that finds a home, or it may quietly become part of your personal collection of lessons learned.

I will be writing another article dedicated entirely to The Orbs—exploring what it continues to teach me, and how we can learn from paintings that resist resolution. This reflection will be part of a future series on unfinished truths and emotional density in art, where I hope to explore how complexity, discomfort, and imperfection can become quiet teachers in both art and life.

Before you go, may I invite you, dear reader, to reflect on a “mistake” you’ve learned to accept?
If you feel comfortable, I would love for you to share it by leaving a comment on this article.

 


Author’s Note

I write this reflection at a season when I am learning to slow down—to listen more carefully to both my art and my life. Returning to the canvas has reminded me that not everything needs to be resolved immediately, and that some lessons arrive only when we allow ourselves to pause. Through these writings, I hope to share not answers, but honest moments—where art becomes a quiet companion in understanding patience, imperfection, and grace.

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Returning to Art, Preventing Burnout: How Art Therapy Helped Me Heal and Create Again

 

Returning to Art: Finding My Way Back to The Sea Within

My last blog post was on December 6, 2024, and a lot has happened since then. In truth, I went quiet—not because I stopped believing in art, but because life asked more of me than I expected.

My 2025 was hectic, and somewhere along the way, I lost touch with my art.

This year, I focused heavily on my regular work. I had to excuse myself—temporarily—from the art arena. The first quarter of the year was filled with travel, and by the middle of the year, I was promoted to a position on the management committee (ManCom). I never imagined how much time, energy, and presence that role would require. Slowly, I felt my creativity slipping away.

The experience tested me deeply—my service to the Cooperative Academy, my advocacy of helping people improve their lives, and my personal limits. While the work was meaningful and purposeful, it demanded so much that I began to feel disconnected from a part of myself.

And yet, art has always been part of my system. It is what grounds me. It is what keeps me going when words fall short.

Looking back, I also noticed something important. Most of my blog posts that resonated deeply with readers—and gained higher viewership—were those related to art therapy. Perhaps because many of us are quietly carrying stress, grief, and burnout, and are searching for gentle ways to heal.

Without formally naming it before, art has always been my form of self-therapy.


A Turning Point: Remembering Why Art Matters

During the third quarter of the year (October), something happened that profoundly shifted me. Our ARTipolo president, Mr. Pol Mesina, Jr., suddenly passed away due to an aneurysm.

His passing reminded me—painfully and clearly—that life is short.

It made me realize that while service and work are essential, I must also embrace art while I still have the energy, the health, and the capacity to create. Because of my inconsistencies, I did not grow as much as I wanted in the field I truly love. And that realization was heavy.

That was when I knew: I needed a turnaround.


An Art Retreat and the Birth of The Sea Within

On October 30, 2025, I took a leave and gave myself the gift of a two-day art retreat. I went to Balay-Pinsel, intentionally left my cellphone behind, and allowed myself to simply be present—with paint, canvas, and silence.

For two days, I painted without interruption. No deadlines. No meetings. No noise.

And for the first time in a long while, I flowed.

I finished one piece in those two days—unbothered, unhurried, and fully immersed.

Before Sir Pol passed, I had promised him that I would return to art and participate again in an exhibit at the Renaissance Art Gallery. True to that promise, I joined the exhibit on November 15, entering the piece I created during that retreat.

The painting is entitled “The Sea Within.”

Title: The Sea Within
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Size: 24” x 18”
Year: 2025



This piece tells my story. It reflects my inner struggle, the storms I went through, and the calm that quietly exists within, even when life feels overwhelming. The sea may be turbulent on the surface, but beneath it lies depth, strength, and stillness.

I am sharing this painting here as part of my journey back to art.

The Sea Within reflects not only my artistic journey but also my personal art therapy process. The painting carries both turbulence and stillness—symbolizing how we can remain whole even when life around us feels unstable.

This piece became my reminder that healing does not always come from rest alone—it also comes from expression.


Why I Choose to Return to Art—Again and Again

Returning to art made me realize that what I practice—and what I often write about—is closely aligned with art therapy.

Art therapy is not always about formal sessions or clinical settings. Sometimes, it is simply the act of creating—allowing color, movement, and texture to surface emotions that words cannot carry. For me, painting became a way to process pressure, grief, responsibility, and renewal.

Through art and art therapy–inspired practice, I experienced:

  • Emotional regulation during periods of stress and burnout

  • Safe expression of grief, loss, and unspoken emotions

  • Mental clarity when decision-making felt overwhelming

  • Reconnection with identity beyond titles and roles

  • A sense of calm and grounding amid life’s storms

This is why I believe art should not be neglected—especially by those who are gifted with it. Art therapy reminds us that creating is not indulgence; it is healing.

Art becomes a quiet companion when life feels loud. It listens when no one else can.


🎨 Art Lessons (Limited Slots)

If you are interested in having basic art lessons, Cascade Art Studio offers Sunday art classes from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  The fee is PhP 300 per day with a minimum of 2 kids, inclusive of 1 pencil, drawing paper, and/or 1 pointed brush, and a sample basic color.  It will help, though, to purchase their own materials for familiarity and practice.

Session Program:

  • Sketching Fundamentals - 2 hours

  • Basic Watercolor Painting (Wet-on-Wet) - 2 hours

  • Basic Watercolor Painting (Wet-on-Dry) - 2 hours

I have prepared a basic list of materials and included Shopee links for convenience, though materials may also be purchased elsewhere.  I choose cheaper products for beginners.

  1. Sketch pad - click here to buy online
  2. 6B Pencil - click here to buy online
  3. Kneaded eraser - click here to buy online
  4. Watercolor paint - click here to buy online
  5. Watercolor pad - click here to buy online
  6. Round brush - click here to buy online
  7. Flat brush - click here to buy online

If you are interested, please message me directly at https://www.facebook.com/RoseGobsCascadeArtStudio.  


Friday, December 6, 2024

DECEMBER AVENUE: A Group Art Exhibition Celebrating the Season and Artistic Bonds

The vibrant art community of Angono, Rizal, came alive this December with the launch of “December Avenue,” a group art exhibition that opened on December 1, 2024, at The Blanco Art Gallery. This exhibit, held in the iconic TBAG Gallery 3 within the Blanco Family Museum Compound, is a festive gathering of seasoned artists who have graced the Philippine art scene for years as regular exhibitors of The Blanco Art Group (TBAG).

What’s in a Name? “December Avenue” Explained

“December Avenue” is a poetic nod to the confluence of art, nostalgia, and celebration. December, a month that evokes warmth, gratitude, and joy, becomes the perfect avenue—a pathway—for artistic expression and reconnection. It signifies the close of a year and the enduring journey of creativity and collaboration within the TBAG community. This collective exhibit captures the season's essence: harmony, generosity, and reflection, celebrated through diverse artistic expressions.

A Collaborative Masterpiece

The exhibit is spearheaded by the accomplished leaders of TBAG—Ms. Gem Blanco, Mr. Glenn Blanco, and Mr. Peter Paul Blanco. Joining them are 30 remarkable artists, each bringing unique styles and perspectives to the gallery walls. Participating artists include:

This diverse roster reflects the depth and breadth of Philippine artistry, bringing together painters, sculptors, and mixed-media innovators who have continually enriched the local and international art landscapes.

A Celebration of the Season and Reunions

More than just an art showcase, “December Avenue” serves as a reunion for TBAG exhibitors, rekindling bonds and celebrating the shared journey of creativity. The exhibit’s opening was marked by warm camaraderie, inspiring speeches, and the palpable excitement of artists and art enthusiasts alike.

The event also underscores Angono’s reputation as the Art Capital of the Philippines, showcasing its enduring legacy as a hub of talent, collaboration, and cultural celebration. It’s a testament to the thriving art scene that continues to elevate Filipino artistry on the global stage.

Details of the Exhibit

  • Title: December Avenue

  • Schedule: December 1, 2024, to January 25, 2025

  • Venue: TBAG Gallery 3, The Blanco Art Gallery
    Blanco Family Museum Compound
    312-B A. Ibañez St., Brgy. San Vicente, Angono, Rizal 1930

Why Visit?

This exhibit is more than an opportunity to marvel at masterpieces—it celebrates the enduring spirit of Filipino art and culture. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a curious observer, “December Avenue” promises an unforgettable journey through the creative avenues paved by the talented TBAG artists. Don’t miss this chance to experience the magic of art that transcends time and seasons.








Monday, December 2, 2024

Formless: A Celebration of Art, Community, and Giving Back

On December 1, 2024, my journey with Golden Strokes: A Journey of Art and Time came to a heartfelt conclusion. This exhibit was more than a showcase of my work—it reflected my gratitude for the incredible support I’ve received throughout my artistic journey and an opportunity to give back to the community that nurtured me.

The exhibit opened on October 20, 2024, with a free art workshop, a small gesture to celebrate my 50th year, and to pay forward the kindness extended to me by my peers in the Philippine Art Circle. Sharing my knowledge with aspiring artists was a deeply fulfilling experience, and I revisited this joy again at the exhibit's closing workshop. During these sessions, we explored the basics of acrylic painting, dived into the fascinating world of the color wheel, and experimented with various color schemes. These workshops reminded me of the transformative power of art and the connections it fosters among people.

As the exhibit drew to a close, an unexpected but equally inspiring chapter unfolded. I was invited to be a guest speaker at the opening of Mr. Lee Conception’s solo exhibit, Formless. This was my chance to support a fellow artist who is just beginning to spread his wings and share his God-given talent. His masterpieces radiate vibrant energy and deep emotion, reflecting the love and inspiration he draws from his family. Meeting Lee for the first time was like reading an artist’s autobiography through his work—each piece brimming with life and passion.

During the event, Ms. Gem Blanco, Assistant Gallery Director at The Blanco Art Gallery, shared something that resonated deeply with me. She explained that the gallery opens its doors to artists when they see readiness, providing them a platform to soar. I am forever grateful to the Blanco family for giving me that opportunity, and it felt natural to extend my support to Lee in the same spirit. The generosity and belief that were shown to me must be paid forward, not only as an obligation but as a way of honoring the artistic community that continuously inspires me.

The day didn’t end there. After Lee’s opening, I participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the December Avenue Group art show, also hosted by The Blanco Art Gallery. But that’s a story for another blog post! For now, I hope you enjoy these snapshots from the workshops and Formless—a feast for the eyes and, I hope, a spark for your own creative journey.

To aspiring artists reading this: always appreciate the impact of generosity, mentorship, and community. Art is a journey, not just of self-expression but of shared growth and inspiration. Whether you’re just starting out or taking your next bold step, remember that every masterpiece begins with a single, heartfelt stroke.

Let’s keep creating, sharing, and inspiring. Until the next brushstroke! 🎨


"SNAPSHOTS"

Morning, Art Workshop 



 With fellow artists

 

 








Mr. Lee Concepcion doing an on-the-spot painting








Formless Opening 

 









Monday, November 25, 2024

"Golden Moments: A Celebration of Art and Gratitude"

Golden Moments: Reflections on My First Solo Exhibit

When I look back on my first solo art exhibit, Golden Strokes: A Journey of Art and Time, the memories feel as vibrant as the hues on my canvas. Held at The Blanco Art Gallery in Angono, Rizal, the experience was a tapestry of emotions—joy, gratitude, and inspiration. It was more than an exhibition of my art; it was a celebration of community, love, and shared dreams.

A Community of Support

This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without my incredible support system. My family, friends, and colleagues came through in ways that moved me deeply. They sacrificed their time, braving long commutes and giving up precious family moments to share this special occasion with me. Some couldn’t attend in person but still contributed financially, reminding me of the many ways love can show up.

To the Blanco family—Ate Gem, Sir Michael, Dra. Rosemarie, Sir Glenn, Julius, Allan, and their wonderful clan—thank you for opening your gallery and hearts to me. To the ARTipolo family led by Mr. Pol A. Mesina Jr., your camaraderie and artistic energy made the event even more vibrant. To Ate Marites Paragas-Mesina and their son Marius, Mr. Tam Urao, Dra. Christelle Guzik, Mr. JM Guzik, and their children, Ate Corazon Gaufo Patarata and Sis. Carol Mencias Alay-ay and her husband. 

To my Gubat St. Anthony Cooperative family, Engr. Rene Hermo, and Ms. Ma. Nenete Cepria, your presence and support were invaluable. To my NATCCO family, especially Mr. Glenn Medez and the KRC unit (Shenna May De Manuel, Melvin Tagle, Ji Piñon), thank you for the food, resources, and unwavering encouragement. And to my family—Dad, Mom, Madz, Elize, Eriel, and Ember—your love has always been my greatest masterpiece. To our close family friends Ate Norma De Veas Sanchez and Gwyneth Yvonne Sanchez for the song and assistance in preparing the potluck table. Thank you to Mark Gob for taking care of our home and cats.

Thanks to Mr. Joel Joson, his partner, and their children for the Bulacan goodies.  I also want to acknowledge my KRC panga nays: William Cariño, Maria Claudette Risa Bataller, her husband, and Sis. Liza Bataller.

Moments to Remember

The exhibit’s opening was a whirlwind of meaningful interactions. From catching up with Professor Milagros Lagrosa and her family to chatting with Ate Kathy Lising over potluck dishes, the day felt like a beautifully curated canvas of people and stories.

I still smile when I remember closing the gallery late with Katrina Sarmiento Gob. Those quiet moments after the crowd had left reminded me of why I paint: to connect, to reflect, and to share beauty with the world.

Art That Finds a Home

Two of my pieces, Cherish and A Spoonful of Life, found new homes during the exhibit. Knowing that my art will grace the walls of others and bring them joy is one of the most rewarding parts of this journey.

"Cherish"

A Spoonful of Life

For those who missed the opening, there’s still time! The exhibit runs until November 30, 2024, and we’ll close it on December 1 with another art workshop. If you’re interested, message The Blanco Art Gallery to join us.

A Heart Full of Gratitude

To everyone who prayed for me, sent congratulatory messages, or joined me in spirit—thank you. Your words, actions, and presence made this exhibit more than an event; it became a golden memory etched in my heart. Additionally, I want to thank those who helped make this event possible: Amilyn David, Cristy Naigan, and YES NA YES to Allan Reyes! Special thanks to Mr. Fred Tejada for helping with the setup and to Racquel Gamuyao for bringing the pichi-pichi.

Thanks also to Ms. Maria Cristina Naigan and Ms. Lorene Samaniego and their families.

And above all, thanks be to God, the ultimate artist, for gifting me with the ability to create and share.

This chapter of my artistic journey may be closing, but the story continues. If you’d like to view or purchase my works, visit the gallery or stay tuned for what’s next. You may see some of my works in the online gallery page of this blog.  Let’s keep celebrating art, community, and the golden moments that make life extraordinary.




























































About Rose Gob

My photo
Welcome to my blog! I’m Rose Gob—an expert in Knowledge Management, a seasoned HR and OD practitioner, an ARTIST, and an educator. I’ve created three dynamic blogs to share my deep passion for creative arts, cooperatives, and the social enterprise industry, with a primary focus on my art blog, www.cascadeartstudio.com. Throughout the pandemic, I explored a variety of topics, but now I’m excited to bring you more focused and engaging content. I want to hear from you! Share your thoughts, ask questions, and let me know what topics you're eager to dive into. Thank you for stopping by. Your insights are invaluable to me. Please be sure to check back often, and have an amazing day!