51 happened this year. And so did finally putting myself and my art out there after gentle prodding from friends and family.
So far, I’ve joined a national women’s art competition, four group exhibits – one of which is ongoing and another on July, met many wonderful local artists – old and new, sold three original pieces, and even accepted a commissioned recreation for a bridal shower gift.
I’ve received inquiries about my work too, including one from a local book author considering collaborating with me for her book marketing. Even without a definite outcome yet, I’m grateful that my art resonates with people at all.
The style I’m drawn to – Modern Naive – isn’t the most popular in the Philippine local market and I’ve had to wrestle with whether to create for marketability, stubbornly resist all feedback, or learn to listen and grow while staying true to myself. I’ve chosen the third. I think that’s where growth happens.
This year, I also joined two online workshops with Art2Life founder, Nicholas Wilton, and became part of a generous global community of artists who offer both encouragement and honest feedback.
I’ve officially said goodbye to my long-time blog, Fully Housewifed, to make more room for art, and I’m slowly building a website for my work. Early this week, I signed up for an upcoming simple café exhibit in the South – the kind where art and coffee and old friends can quietly meet.
I had hoped art sales might help build funds for my youngest son’s therapy needs and recommended classes, but I’m reminded that provision has never depended solely on my own hands. God gave me the gift to create- once through music and movement, then writing, and now through visual art- and I trust Him with where all this is leading.
For now, I’m simply thankful I get to create, to grow, and to meet beautiful people along the way.
Raising a glass to this year’s first-quarter wins. Thank you, Jesus.
If you’d like to take home any of my pieces because they resonate with you, send me a DM on my Instagram page: @maypal_art
Or you can see my pieces in person at the following art exhibitions.
My Art Exhibits in Manila this 2026:
March 14 to 23 – Madison Galleries, Cupang Muntinlupa, Alabang (FINISHED)
April 12 to 28 – Quarto Arts & Events Gallery, Shopwise Sucat Mall Paranaque (FINISHED)
May 24 to June 27 – Art Sphere Gallery, Kapetol Cafe, Imus Cavite (ONGOING)
June 7 to July 5 – Art Sphere Gallery, Kapetol Cafe, Imus Cavite (UPCOMING)
July 5 – 18 – Quarto Arts & Events Gallery, Shopwise Sucat Mall Paranaque (UPCOMING)
May Palacpac, Storyteller 
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