Jayson Dominguez Duclan, an Igorot visual artist, embodies a captivating tale of perseverance, passion, and creative pursuit. Born on March 6, 1993, in La Trinidad, Benguet, he spent his formative years in Baguio City, where his love for art began to blossom.
This article delves into the artistic journey of Jayson Dominguez Duclan, portraying a narrative of resilience, passion, and creative dedication. The story captures the essence of his life, highlighting the challenges, triumphs, and the transformative power of art.
Early Years: Cultivating Creativity
Jayson's journey into the world of art started during his childhood in Sagada and later in Quezon, Isabela, where he attended elementary school. From a young age, he found solace and joy in drawing, filling his notebooks with sketches of cartoon characters and anime figures. Despite facing criticism for his unconventional focus on art, Jayson continued to pursue his passion, using his drawings as a means of self-expression and connection with others.
Navigating Family Challenges: The Loss of a Father
Tragedy struck Jayson's family with the passing of his father, leaving his mother to raise him and his three siblings. As the eldest, Jayson took on additional responsibilities to support his family through difficult times.
From Crayons to Canvas: Embracing Art as a Profession
After completing high school, Jayson enrolled at the University of the Cordilleras with plans to study criminology. However, his innate passion for art led him down a different path. Despite not finishing his degree, Jayson made the bold decision to pursue art as a full-time career, driven by his unwavering determination to follow his artistic calling.
From Hobby to Profession: Overcoming Adversity
Jayson's transition from amateur artist to professional painter was fraught with challenges. Working long hours in a bakery, he struggled to find time to practice his craft. However, his dedication never waned. Turning to social media, Jayson connected with fellow artists and discovered that art could be more than just a hobby-it could be a viable profession.
Empowered by this discovery, Jayson became more determined than ever to pursue his dream of becoming a full-time artist. Despite facing financial, emotional, and mental challenges, including going hungry to allocate a budget for art materials, Jayson persisted. He spent countless hours practicing his craft, even offering free portraits to acquaintances in pursuit of his goal. His perseverance paid off when he received his first portrait commission, followed by many more opportunities.
Teaching and Exhibiting: A Journey of Growth
Jayson's artistic journey continued to evolve as he transitioned into teaching art to children while actively participating in exhibitions and art shows. Despite the demands of his teaching job, Jayson remained committed to his craft, finding fulfillment in sharing his passion for art with others.
A Beacon of Inspiration: Sharing Talent with the World
Through his dedication and talent, Jayson began to garner attention and recognition within the art community. Joining the Tam-awan Village Artists (TVA) in Baguio City provided him with a platform to showcase his work and further refine his skills. His participation in exhibitions both locally and nationally solidified his reputation as a rising star in the art world.
Facing Personal Loss: A Test of Strength and Character
Jayson's journey took a heartbreaking turn when his beloved mother was diagnosed with stage 4 gastric cancer. The devastating news, coupled with the financial strain of medical expenses, posed immense challenges for Jayson and his family. With their savings exhausted, Jayson turned to his art as a source of support, selling his artworks and accepting art commissions to make ends meet during this difficult time.
Despite Jayson's unwavering dedication to his craft, he couldn't shield his family from the harsh realities of their situation. Tragically, Jayson's mother lost her battle with cancer just a month before the widespread lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019. The loss of his mother was a profound blow to Jayson, testing his strength and character in ways he never imagined.
Supporting His Family: Art as a Lifeline
Today, Jayson serves as the primary breadwinner for his family, using his art to provide financial stability while continuing to pursue his passion. Through the sale of his artwork and commissions, Jayson has been able to support his family while staying true to his artistic vision.
Advocating for Arts and Culture: A Commitment to Community
Jayson remains committed to advocating for the preservation and promotion of arts and culture, particularly among the youth. Through his involvement in outreach programs and community initiatives, he strives to inspire the next generation of artists and ensure that the cultural heritage of the Cordillera region thrives.
Looking Towards the Future: A Canvas of Hope
As Jayson continues to create and share his artwork with the world, his journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring artists everywhere. With each brushstroke, he paints a picture of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of art.
For those who wish to support Jayson and acquire his artwork, he can be contacted directly for inquiries and purchases through the Art of Jayson Duclan & Silan Facebook page.
In conclusion, Jayson Dominguez Duclan's artistic odyssey is a testament to the enduring power of creativity, passion, and perseverance. From humble beginnings to burgeoning success, his journey serves as a reminder that with dedication and resilience, anything is possible in the world of art.
