Art is not only about colors, shapes, and images. For visual artist Tom Alvarado, art is a journey of self-expression, connection, and inspiration.
A Laguna-based painter, muralist, quick portrait artist, and serenading artist, Alvarado has dedicated his life to transforming emotions and experiences into meaningful works of art. Born in Sagay, Negros Occidental, his passion for painting began in his early 20s and continued to grow into a lifelong pursuit of creativity.
Known for his abstract surreal art, Alvarado creates expressive pieces using mixed media, oil, and acrylic on canvas. His artworks reflect imagination, emotions, and personal perspectives, inviting viewers to discover their own interpretations behind every stroke and color.
His artistry goes beyond the traditional canvas. As a muralist and quick portrait artist, he brings stories and memories to life through his creative process. He is also recognized for his unique style as a serenading artist, where he combines music and painting through “paghaharana” by singing while creating portraits using pencil and paint. Through this special performance, he turns celebrations and meaningful occasions into unforgettable artistic experiences.
Behind the artist is a family man who continues to find inspiration from his beautiful wife and four children, who are all professionals. His family serves as one of his greatest motivations as he continues to pursue his passion and share his talent with others.
Beyond his personal achievements, Tom Alvarado also plays an important role in nurturing the local art community. He is the founder and head of TAOxArtCircle10, a collective of Laguna-based artists that promotes collaboration, creativity, cultural appreciation, and community engagement through visual arts.
Through the group, Alvarado supports fellow artists and encourages the younger generation to explore their talents, express their ideas, and appreciate the value of Filipino artistry. For him, art becomes more meaningful when artists help one another grow and inspire each other.
His journey carries an important message for aspiring young artists who are still discovering their own artistic voice.
“Wag matakot o mahiyang ipakita ang sariling pananaw at nararamdaman sa sining. Ipagpatuloy ang pagpipinta at pagsasanay. Matuto sa bawat pagkakamali at huwag ikumpara ang sarili sa paglalakbay ng iba.”
Alvarado believes that every artist has a unique story to tell. He encourages young creators to trust their abilities, remain humble, and continue learning from every experience.
“Magtiwala sa kakayahan at manatiling mapagpakumbaba. Maging halimbawa at inspirasyon sa kapwa kabataang sining manlilikha.”
For Tom Alvarado, every artwork holds a special meaning. Whether it is an abstract painting, a mural, or a quick portrait, each piece represents a memory, an emotion, and a part of his artistic journey.
“Hangga’t may mga kabataang sining manlilikha na tumatangkilik sa aking obra, patuloy ang aking paglalakbay at pagbibigay ng inspirasyon sa kanila, pagpapakita ng pagpapahalaga, at pasasalamat sa talentong bigay ng Diyos.”
From a young dreamer who started painting in his early years to an artist who now inspires others, Tom Alvarado continues to prove that art is not only about creating masterpieces. It is about sharing passion, building communities, and leaving inspiration for the next generation of artists.
Every brushstroke tells a story. Every creation becomes a reminder that the artist’s journey never truly ends.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
