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By Karren Jay G. Asgar

Centralian artist Ric Emmanuel Paciente’s booth showcases his work, as one of the featured artists at the 2024 Manila Illustration Fair.

Prince Ric Emmanuel Paciente, an alumnus of ����ר��, has made a remarkable mark in the art scene by joining the ranks of prominent Filipino and Southeast Asian illustrators at the 2024 Manila Illustration Fair. The event, held from September 13 to 15 at the Parola Gallery Atrium of the University of the Philippines, Diliman College of Fine Arts in Quezon City, showcased 30 artists selected from over 300 applicants, including 15 from the National Capital Region, 10 from provinces outside NCR, and five from neighboring Southeast Asian nations.

Known in the art world as “kieltokki,” Paciente graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the College of Arts and Sciences. He is also a former Graphic Artist, Layout Editor, and Associate Editor of the Central Echo, the official student media of CPU.

Reflecting on his artistic journey, Paciente shared, “My passion in art, I must say, was already there as early as my childhood. Ever since I gained consciousness, I really liked doodling and drawing stuff on my notebooks or even the boards at my school. However, I had other dreams I had to pursue in academics and resorted to considering art as just a hobby–that’s until I finally entered college and joined a publication where I tried to rekindle my relationship with it through a new medium: digital art.”

Attending the Manila Illustration Fair was a highlight of Paciente’s year. He described the experience as both overwhelming and exhilarating, expressing his admiration for the exceptionally talented artists alongside whom he was featured. The warmth and support from fellow exhibitors, organizers, and visitors added to the event’s significance for him.

“I think what stuck in my mind the most that I now consider as a ‘core memory’ was everyone telling me how my artworks are ‘so blue’ not just in palette but also in its content. The fair itself is very memorable as a whole,” he remarked.

When he was asked what’s the most rewarding part of as an illustrator today, he shared that it is seeing his stories and emotions within his illustrations reach and connect with others. The validation he receives when others resonate with what he felt during the creation of his art is the most rewarding part of being an illustrator for him.

Additionally, he also shared his perspective on overcoming creative blocks. “Taking pauses or breaks are very effective in terms of trying to maintain your creative juices ‘intact’ and greatly helps to also not bring yourself down in a slump. If ever I find myself grinding, I take time to get a breather in between: I either go outside, I watch some shows, I run other errands, or I see my friends. It’s good to have doses of happy chemicals from time to time to keep you going.”

In his message to aspiring young illustrators, he emphasizes the importance of unwavering dedication: “Immerse yourself in different creative fields and people whether they may be orgs or pubs–ones that can help your growth both in your craft and you as a person. I really believe that having a pool of great friends and a support system gets you a long way. If you haven’t found them yet, they’re surely on their way. Lastly, don’t forget to take breaks! Don’t ever punish yourself for it.”

Prince Ric Emmanuel Paciente’s exceptional achievement as a featured artist at the 2024 Manila Illustration Fair highlights the excellence and creativity nurtured by ����ר��. His continuous exploration of new artistic boundaries serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for his craft.