FOR visual artist Haraya Ocampo-Tejido, a flower’s transitory nature deserves to be appreciated, savored, and remembered. Through the heart, she expresses this admiration of witnessing nature’s exquisite beauty as she illustrates her desire and hope for harmony and balance in the world.
The inspiration behind “Blossom with Grace” stems from Haraya’s deeply desired awakening of a new version of herself, within motherhood and womanhood, within the complexities of feminine energy. The blossoming of a flower became her signifier to this journey, constantly regrowing and becoming anew. This notion of emergence coincides with the significance of the show; it is a debut and an introduction. “Blossom with Grace” is Ocampo-Tejido’s first solo exhibition.
With radiant and invigorating colors, the artist presents to the audience her delightful depictions of the carefree joys of life, unveiling her unique artistic style and approach.
The aesthetic pleasure of illuminated colors and forms is evident in the paintings. For Ocampo-Tejido, beauty is something people respond to; it is uplifting and hopeful. The desire for it is universal. Flowers occupy an elevated level of beauty, which moves emotions and evokes notes of aspiration that vibrate within.
Haraya Corazon Ocampo Tejido (b.1981) received her Marketing Management degree from the De La Salle University Manila in 2002. She unofficially started her art practice back in 2009 as a studio apprentice for her spouse, visual artist Jomike Tejido. Working on several pieces every month helped Haraya hone her skills, “as if it were art classes conveniently situated in our home studio” she narrates. In 2021, after more than a decade as an apprentice, Haraya began signing her own pieces that reflect her personal interests.
Opportunities for group shows arose, and from these foundations, her latest works have come to bloom.
Haraya describes her oeuvre as whimsical and stylized. Inspired by the beauty of nature, her flowers are graphical depictions of their real counterparts, intentionally shedding itself from the bounds of realism with her signature essential forms and uplifting color schemes.
She intends for these blooms to serve as sources of strength, as well as provide healing refuge for one’s eyes to rest. In connection to nature, motherhood encapsulated the context and point of view of Haraya’s credibility as a painter. Her use of a bright color palette and soft brushstrokes juxtapose a mother’s affectionate gaze with a child’s earnest expression.
“Blossom with Grace” will be on view until June 16 at the Galerie Joaquin located at the 3rd level of The Podium, ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City.
