Celso Pepito

Pepito (b. 1956) is a graduate of Fine Arts from University of the Philippines Cebu in 1981. Influenced by his mentor, Martino Abellana, known as the “Dean of Cebuano painters", has painted in an impressionist-realist manner for more than ten years. In 1994, he gradually shifted to his brand of Cubism.

Looking at Pepito's artworks one is made aware of common motifs running through them: the three planar divisions used as backdrops of his figurative subjects and the octagon. According to the artist, these show his three important messages: love of God, love of family, and love of country.

Pepito's painting reflects a strong spirituality and commitment to a continuing apostolate through his art. He is an unwavering believer that positive change in society starts in the family, the reason why his works always show and depict family values and traditions, and a spirit of nationalism exemplified by subjects that are striving for self-reliance and dignity through hard work and labor.

Having built a reputation in the utilization of cubic simplicity in the making of his works, genuine sincerity stands to be an important element in the inner working of Pepito's art - art which seeks to give hope, motivate, challenge and uplift.