“Leo Carton: Versatile and Talented Global Pinoy Visual Artist”

     “In art, what we want is the certainty that one spark of original genius shall not be extinguished.” – Mary Cassatt.

The next talented and versatile Global Pinoy Visual Artist we will feature is Leo Carton as he is known in the art circle. His colorful art journey started early in the year 1995 which was described as full of experimentation and exploration utilizing varied media and art styles. His own signature style finally dawned on him after careful soul searching and thus, his solo exhibition “Vendors” came into fruition. According to him, “Art makes me aware of what’s happening around me and gives me the privilege to express my innermost emotions through my brushstrokes.”    

Let us get to know more about our versatile Global Pinoy Visual Artist through his short interview: 1. When did your art journey begin? Answer: In the year 1995, I joined "Pintor Kulapol" a local group of artists founded by Nunelucio Alvarado. I started practicing my art style in 2004 and it evolved as the years passed by when I began using textile, threads and up cycled objects.

2. What is the importance of art?

Answer: Art is essential since it makes me aware of things surrounding me especially the daily lives of common people. Because of art, my life became valuable every second and each hour everyday. By sharing your emotions and the story of each person in your community, I can give my opinion regarding political issues which plague our country and everywhere.

3. Who are the famous painters you look up to and why?

Answer: Famous painter/artist I look up to is Nunelucio Alvarado. His masterpieces made me aware of what's happening around me especially to ordinary people. He was also the one who encouraged me to paint and express what I see and feel about things and people surrounding me each day.

5. Describe your art style.

Answer: My art style is Pop Art Surrealism with a touch of Expressionism and Impressionism as others tell me. But it is up to the viewers or art collectors as well as art critics to judge because I am a self-taught artist.

6.. What is the main subject of your art works?

Answer: The central theme of my art pieces is family "Love for Family and Their Children." With a strong faith in God that He is always there for us in times of trials. Without God, there wouldn't be the Raw Artworks of Leon Carton.

7. Do you believe that art heals and why?

Answer: I do believe that art truly heals for it helps lessens our stress of an artist and the viewers. Through art, we develop our awareness about our environment.

8. What is your message to young and aspiring artists?

Answer: I will give a simple advice to aspiring artists. To continue painting art works. Do not compete with your fellow artists who are more adept. Compete with yourself and strive to become a better artist. Avoid embodying "crab mentality". Just keep on painting using your own art style. It is said that: "The greatness of art is not to find what is common but what is unique." Be patient and persevere and see where it leads you.

For commissioned paintings, you can contact Leo Carton via his:

Facebook Profile: Leon Carton https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557042231767&mibextid=qi2Omg&rdid=mf7RPm1wYbTHTdlc&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F3cmpkSuQ5Y3B9KJA%2F%3Fmibextid%3Dqi2Omg Mobile Nos. 0930493255