Gretchen Villanueva-Heras
About the Artist:
Gretchen Nadine Villanueva-Heras, known artistically as GretchensWater, is a self-taught watercolor artist from Bais and Dumaguete City. Her artistic journey began as soon as she could hold a pencil, but it was at age ten that she first fell in love with watercolor — a medium that continues to shape her artistic voice. Though she explored her creativity quietly over the years, it was during the introspective pause of the 2020 pandemic that she fully embraced her practice, dedicating herself more seriously to the craft.
Artistic Style & Themes
Gretchen’s art is rooted in the peaceful, the nostalgic, and the deeply personal. She draws inspiration from the gentle beauty of her hometown, childhood memories, and the everyday magic of the Philippines. Her style is sincere and emotionally grounded, with soft transitions of light and shadow, and delicate color play that give each painting a feeling of calm and memory.
Creative Process
She works intuitively, often sparked by fleeting scenes that stir an emotional response — a shadow across a path, a flower in her garden, or the way light hits a familiar window. Gretchen begins with a quick sketch in her notebook or a reference photo, then allows the watercolor to lead her. Her process is gentle but disciplined, with a deep focus on completing each piece as an act of devotion and self-reflection.
Inspiration & Influence
Gretchen credits her creative discipline to her father, Francisco G. Villanueva — a self-taught sculptor whose intricate, precise craftsmanship continues to inspire her. While they work in different mediums, the shared dedication to detail and storytelling runs deep in their family.
Outside of art, Gretchen has a passion for genealogical research and history. She is fascinated by family roots — a passion that led to a serendipitous discovery when, after naming her daughter Nicola, she later learned that her beloved grandmother’s second name was also Nicola. It was one of those small, blissful moments that felt like destiny.
Personal Connections & Home
Bais City isn’t just her home — it’s where her heart, history, and extended family tree flourish. Her family home, nestled near the coastal area with a small mangrove forest and water inlet, is her sanctuary. She visits almost weekly from Dumaguete to play pickleball with loved ones, recharge in her garden, and spend time by the estuary. These visits continue to fuel her art and her sense of place.
Medium & Exploration
Watercolor remains her medium of choice, but Gretchen also enjoys experimenting with acrylics, especially painting on wood. She has collected a number of old paddles from local fishermen, with dreams of one day turning each into a painted work of art — merging her love for storytelling, objects, and the sea.
Exhibitions & Projects:
Gretchen has participated in numerous local group exhibitions in Dumaguete, including:
- Pamalandong I – El Amigo (2022)
- Pamalandong II – Dakong Balay (2022)
- All Women Exhibit – Dakong Balay (2022)
- FLOW Exhibit – Arte Gallery (2022)
- Arte Fair – Arte Gallery (2023)
- Imaginarium: Libraria Anniversary (2023)
- PH MAP and PH My MAP by Pinspired Art Souvenirs (2024)
- HEADSPACE Exhibit – The Henry Resort Dumaguete Gallery (2024)
- Tropical State of Mind - Pinspired Art Gallery at The Henry Resort Dumaguete (2025)
One of her most meaningful projects is HEADSPACE, a collaborative exhibit with her childhood friends Trina Montenegro and Carmen del Prado. It was more than a show — it was a creative reunion steeped in shared memories and friendship.
In August 2025, Pinspired Art Souvenirs collaborated with Gretchen to publish a limited edition art print book titled Tropical State of Mind. The collection features 12 of her most heartfelt watercolor works, capturing the quiet beauty of Filipino life and the tropical charm of her hometown. Limited to 300 copies, the book is designed so each page can be torn out and framed, allowing collectors to bring a piece of her art into their own spaces.
What She Hopes You Feel
Gretchen’s work is her way of preserving emotion — a watercolor diary of moments and reflections. Through her paintings, she hopes to offer viewers a sense of peace, comfort, and familiarity. Whether it’s a quiet farm scene or a blooming tropical garden, each piece invites you to pause and feel a little more at home in the world.
