Kyle Jocson

Fernando Jocson, also known as Kyle Jocson in the art world, was born in Himamaylan City. He is a Contemporary Realist and Multidisciplinary Visual Artist, Sculptor, Tai-Chi Master, Scuba Diver, and Environmental Advocate.

Lamang Dagat Art Print Book Submission

"Chasing Sunset", Oil on oil primed linen

Lamang Dagat Art Exhibition Submission

"Humpback Whale in Plastic Ocean", Oil on oil primed linen

Fernando studied Masterclasses in Classical Painting and Drawing, as well as in Concrete Sculpture, refining his skills across multiple disciplines.

Awards and Achievements:

  • Grand Prize Winner in a National Poster Making Competition in Iloilo (2006)
  • Grand Prize Winner in Acrylic Painting Competition in Binalbagan (2008)
  • Grand Prize Winner in Oil Painting Competition in Bacolod (2010)
  • Received a Special Award of Recognition from the City of Bacolod (2014)
  • Guest Speaker for Journalism Workshop Regional Meet (2016, 2017)
  • National Portrait Painting Competition Participant (2022)
  • First Place in Body Painting Competition at Maya Art Space, Bacolod City (2019)
  • First Runner-Up in Art Warrior Philippines 20-Minute Art Battle (2023)
  • Finalist for the Art Warrior Grand Finals Art Battle (2023)
  • Finalist for the International Strada Easel 30-Day Painting Contest (2024)
  • Curator and Art Director of Abstract Cafe and Gallery (2024)
  • Exhibitor for the upcoming XV Florence Italy Biennale (2025)

Fernando Jocson's multifaceted talents and commitment to both art and the environment distinguish him as a notable figure in the contemporary art scene.

Art for me was a means of escape; I dreamed of one day earning millions with my art and having my works exhibited all over the world. While I was in elementary and high school, my parents could only afford to send us to school, and art materials were the least of their priorities. I remember one time I joined an art competition in high school where I won first place, but that wouldn’t have happened if the other participants had not allowed me to borrow their art materials. That's when I promised myself to be an artist and pay forward the generosity I received at that significant moment in my life.

However, it wasn’t an easy path. I did not have the chance to attend art school, and my dream to be a full-time artist was put on hold when I had to work to support myself and my sister through college. Art remained in the background since then. I learned to admire and appreciate people creating art, feeling their success through their shows. I frequently visited galleries and museums, imagining one day seeing my works hanging in a corner with an audience appreciating them.

Then I received bad news from my doctor when I was admitted to the hospital; I was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness and needed to change my lifestyle. At that time, I was working at a call center, often working more than 10-12 hours. Fear struck me; I wanted to be an artist, but that would never happen if I didn’t make a move. I resigned from my job and started an art and coffee shop with the little savings I had.

I displayed my paintings on the walls of my coffee shop, hoping to find an audience and maybe sell my works too. My heart leaped with joy when I sold my work for the first time; it reignited my long-lost desire and passion for art. And it continued. I started accepting commissions and met people who helped me improve my skills. I took master classes from a renowned metal sculpture artist, which paved the way for me to display my works in galleries and museums.

My art and coffee shop thrived for 5-6 years; I gave free art classes to kids as I had promised myself 14 years ago. Then the pandemic hit, forcing me to close down my shop. I had to abandon what I had started; my dream was crushed. However, my art collectors and students gave me the courage to never give up. So, I kept creating in a small room in my apartment.

In 2022, I received an invitation to showcase my art at an art and music event in Negros Oriental. After ups and downs, I found an opportunity to start again. From 2021 to 2023, I managed a beach resort where I had my own art space. Before that, I went to San Carlos City, where I was commissioned to build a 12-foot concrete sculpture. Now, I am running my own art gallery in Bacolod City.

All of this would never have been possible if I hadn’t taken that one important step in my life. I may not be earning millions with my art now, but I've learned something worth more than that: "Success is being able to create the version of yourself that you wanted."

My art speaks to the narrative of my life, like a flower that blooms but will one day wither and rot, spreading an important message to those who have the chance to see it: "It’s the challenges and hurdles that make life more beautiful and meaningful."