Antonio Pacuan Jr., Grand Champion of the 1st Rene Robles Assertionism National Art Competition

By Nimfa Estrellado Antonio Pacuan Jr., Grand Champion of the 1st Rene Robles Assertionism National Art Competition, holds his plaque and ce...

By Nimfa Estrellado

Antonio Pacuan Jr., Grand Champion of the 1st Rene Robles Assertionism National Art Competition, holds his plaque and certificate.

CALABARZON, Philippines - The inaugural René Robles Assertionism National Art Competition made its impact in the art world in the dazzling month of September 2023. This prestigious event, co-hosted by the Manila Clock Tower Museum, brought together a plethora of exceptionally talented artists from across the country, all vying for the coveted title of the first Rene Robles Assertionism Art Grand Champion.

A single creation emerged from a dazzling diversity of submissions that were nothing short of extraordinary, grabbing hearts and gaining the ultimate accolade. It was "Journey of Becoming," a lenticular 3D masterpiece created by Antonio Cabe Pacuan Jr., a proud Calbiganon Samareo, and a tapestry of personal growth and evolution.

Those who were fortunate enough to witness it were tremendously moved. This piece, a tribute to the pioneering spirit of Assertionism's master, René Robles, brings his famous 3D style to life. The canvas was a work of genius, meticulously divided into three distinct sections, each a profound representation of a unique phase in the artist's personal journey.

On the left, the "Asserts" phase depicted a confident artist eager to go on their creative journey. The "Transforms" phase is depicted in the central image as the artist navigates a whirlwind of transforming experiences, using brilliant colors and dynamic shapes to communicate the spirit of the voyage. Finally, the "Transcends" phase on the right side represented the artist's arrival at a state of transcendence, a witness to the progress that occurs as a result of embracing change.

"Journey of Becoming" was a stirring story of artistic evolution, taking the audience on a journey from confident beginnings to the trials and tribulations of metamorphosis and, finally, to a state of transcendence. It wasn't just a painting; it was a powerful reminder that the actual beauty of creation lay not just in the finished work but also in the exquisite process of self-discovery and progress.

As the Grand Champion of the 1st Rene Robles Assertionism National Art Competition, the artist was not just filled with pride for their accomplishment but also deeply humbled by the privilege of conveying a message of personal growth and transformation through their art.

The competition was intense, as Arthur Marcelo of Orani, Bataan, and Bryan Pacanut of Butuan City took second and third place, respectively. A distinguished panel of judges was comprised of Cid Reyes, Emilia Robles, and Atty. Elba Cruz was instrumental in determining the competition's winner.

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Their discerning eyes were complemented by the expertise of the pre-elimination judges, Nante Carandang, Sherwin Gonzales, and Beatriz Robles, who had the challenging task of singling out the most outstanding artworks.

The entire competition was meticulously managed and hosted by the capable hands of Rex-Andrew C.O. RANCO, ensuring the event's resounding success and etching it into the annals of art history.

Antonio's Journey of Becoming

"Journey of Becoming," a lenticular 3D masterpiece created by Antonio Cabe Pacuan Jr. is his life narrative captured in a single artwork. The piece showcased his evolution as an artist, depicting the various stages and milestones he has encountered throughout his creative journey.

Pacuan, a self-taught contemporary artist who uses lenticular techniques and lives in Malate, Manila, saw the pandemic as an opportunity to explore new artistic avenues and connect with a wider audience through virtual platforms.

He worked as a banquet captain's waiter at one of Lucio Tan's hotels, but it had to close due to the lockdown, leaving him unemployed. The lockdown made him realize he should pursue his love of art and his childhood dream of becoming a painter.

It was indeed a turning point in his life, as he dedicated his time and energy to honing his artistic skills. Tonying spent countless hours experimenting with different techniques and materials, pushing the boundaries of his creativity. Through online exhibitions and social media platforms, he was able to showcase his unique artwork to a global audience, receiving recognition and appreciation from art enthusiasts around the world.

Pandemic stop and he bounce back in entreprenership but he continue his lenticular artwork on the side, combining his passion for art with his newfound business acumen. Tonying's lenticular artwork gained popularity for its mesmerizing visual effects, captivating viewers and leaving a lasting impression.

With each piece, he aimed to evoke emotions and spark curiosity, creating a bridge between the tangible and the intangible. As he continues to evolve as an artist and entrepreneur, Tonying remains committed to pushing the boundaries of his craft and inspiring others through his unique creations.

Antonio's meticulous attention to detail and innovative use of lenticular technology truly set his artwork apart, leaving a lasting impression on both the judges and spectators alike. His becoming a grand champion in the 1st Rene Robles Assertionism National Art Competition is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft.

In an exclusive interview with the Sentinel Times, Pacuan said that it is not the money in his artwork but the satisfaction of creating something meaningful and impactful that drives him. He believes that art has the power to inspire and provoke emotions, and he strives to connect with his audience on a deeper level through his work. Pacuan's passion for his craft is evident in every brushstroke, making him a true inspiration for aspiring artists everywhere.

As for others, painting is a source of income, but for Pacuan, it is a form of self-expression and a way to make a positive impact on society. He believes that art should not be solely driven by financial gain but rather by the desire to create something that resonates with others and leaves a lasting impression. Pacuan's dedication to his artistry sets him apart from those who view painting as just a means to make money, making him a true artist in every sense of the word.

For his lenticular art, not the usual painting, Pacuan utilizes a unique technique that creates a sense of movement and depth in his artwork. This adds an extra layer of intrigue and captivates viewers, making his pieces truly stand out in the art world. His commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new artistic avenues further solidifies his status as a true innovator in the field of lenticular art.

Although he has his own technique, he still admires other artists and draws inspiration from their work. Pacuan believes that by studying and appreciating the diverse styles and approaches of other artists, he can continue to evolve and refine his own artistic vision. This openness to learning from others showcases his humility and dedication to the craft, cementing his reputation as a well-rounded artist in the art community.

Pacuan hopes youth will lencticular art as a medium for self-expression and creativity. He believes that introducing young people to lenticular art can not only spark their imagination but also encourage them to explore different artistic techniques and perspectives.

He hopes to inspire a new generation of artists to embrace the versatility and potential of lenticular art. Pacuan's passion for lenticular art stems from his belief that it has the power to transcend traditional boundaries and push the boundaries of artistic expression.

He also aims to inspire young artists to think outside the box and challenge conventional norms in their own work. Ultimately, Pacuan envisions a future where lenticular art becomes a mainstream form of artistic expression, embraced by both established artists and emerging talents alike.

He dreams to have artwork clinic s where he can mentor and guide aspiring lenticular artists, helping them develop their skills and navigate the art industry. In addition, Pacuan hopes to establish collaborations with art institutions and galleries to showcase the power and versatility of lenticular art.

Pacuan life is a living testament to the resilience and adaptability of artists in the face of adversity. Despite the limitations imposed by the pandemic, he managed to find new ways to showcase his talent and reach out to art enthusiasts around the world. His ability to pivot and embrace technology not only allowed him to continue pursuing his passion but also opened doors for future collaborations and opportunities.

His life has transformed positively, as he has found his passion and turned it into a fulfilling career that brings him continuous inspiration and a sense of fulfillment. He has become a role model for aspiring artists, demonstrating that with determination and adaptability, one can overcome any obstacle and achieve success. His story serves as a reminder that, even in the face of adversity, there is always room for growth and innovation in pursuing one's dreams.

He invites you to visit his https://www.facebook.com/twonie.paqwan to view Tonying's masterpiece and experience the wonder and beauty of his artwork.

"Journey of Becoming," Grand Champion of the 1st Rene Robles Assertionism National Art Competition winning piece