Boholano visual artist Elvin Perocho Vitor is slated to be honored at the 6th Leonardo Da Vinci International Prize Award ceremony, set to take place at the National Museum of Science and Technology in Milan, Italy, on April 13.
In an interview with Esquire Philippines, 29-year-old Vitor said he received a call from the curator of the museum, Francesco Saverio Russo, who invited him to submit his work for jury consideration. He chose to submit his “Bulawanong Bol-anon Series,” a collection that highlights the most precious treasures of his province—its people.
“Bohol is known for its beautiful landscapes and historic sites. Ang hindi alam ng marami, ay ang kultura ng mga indigenous tribes dito sa Bohol,” he says. He mentions the Eskaya tribe, who are notable for their tattoos and distinctive script, which he chose to feature in his paintings.
He could not ascertain the specific reasons for his selection for the award. But he thinks his unique artistic style, participation in international exhibitions, and dedication to promoting his community’s culture might have led to his recognition.
Vitor combines hyperrealism with surrealism in his work, highlighting the importance of “putting my soul in every masterpiece.”
Vitor’s inclination towards the visual arts was sparked at a young age when he observed his father, a teacher, preparing visual aids for his classes. Curious, he sought to understand this craft. “Nalaman ko na ang tawag sa propesyong iyon ay artist, and it required a degree in Fine Arts,” he reminisces.
Since then, Vitor aimed to pursue the arts, notwithstanding his severe myopia. “Since grade 2, I’ve been wearing eyeglasses because my vision was 400 and 300. Now, my vision has reached 1,700 and 1,500,” he shares.
In 2018, he earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, majoring in Advertising Arts, from the University of Bohol. However, his journey in painting began much earlier, in 2013, during which he started selling his artwork in malls.
After graduation, he worked as a layout and graphic artist at the Bohol Chronicle and Bohol Tribune. But when his eye condition worsened, he decided to pause his work in graphic design and later focused on establishing a full-time career in painting.
