Geraldine Santiago

When I was a teenager, I was introduced to renowned Filipino contemporary and modern artist Ibarra dela Rosa (1943-1998) at the FEATI University College of Fine Arts who taught my sisters and I art and oil and acrylic painting techniques. This began my journey and joy of painting. Dela Rosa’s style of impressionism, pointillist-like brushstrokes and abstract images are some of my early influences. Growing in up British Columbia has also influenced the way I see things. In addition, I’d like to think that my positive energy, imagination, love of bold colours and my ethnical background as a Filipina-Canadian artist bring a unique perspective of my work. Over the years, I’ve had many group and solo exhibitions with acquisitions which include: the Vancouver East Cultural Centre, the Richmond Art Gallery, the UBC Art Gallery and acquisition by the Richmond Art Gallery, and the Vancouver Folk Festival. I was also a grant recipient for ArtStarts in Schools, a not-for-profit organization bringing professional artists to the classroom and have volunteered at schools teaching art. In honour of Canada's 150's birthday, I wrote and illustrated two children's picture books titled, "Luisa and the Magic Star" and "Luisa and the Star Thief". The illustrations are set in the backdrop of Vancouver, British Columbia Canada and show my love for colours, music and the picturesque mountains in the north shore. “Luisa and the Magic Star” is a colourful picture book that connects children to the value of friendship while recognizing Canada’s achievements in space. Dr. Roberta Bondar, the first Canadian woman astronaut in space, exclaims “Your book is delightful.” The storybook is intended to be a keepsake for generations of storytellers and young readers. What makes “Luisa and the Magic Star” a must-have for children’s storybook collections is its focus on Canadian accomplishments in science and space. Canadiana is featured prominently in both poetry and illustrations throughout the story including the Canadian flag, maple tree, and Canadarm (Canada’s most famous robotic and technological achievement) along with a guest appearance by Dr. Roberta Bondar.