Rocha,

Versatile artist Jun Sergio Rocha, Jr. fascinates the art world with his modern interpretations of the image of the classic Filipina—the Maria Clara in her white kamisa, long skirt, and often a headscarf or a salakot. The women, and sometimes men, are engaged in traditional pursuits. Whether toiling in the fields, selling at the market, or resting between their labors, the subjects in his paintings explore historical folk traditions and rituals.

Jun Rocha (b. 1956) studied BS Chemistry at Manila Central University. His love for the visual arts, however, soon led him in another direction. In his early thirties, Rocha took up watercolor painting at the American Academy of Arts and oil painting at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. He became a member of the Palette and Chisel Art Academy and the Plein Air Painters of Chicago. In 2002, he received an Outstanding Community Artist Award from the City Mayor of Chicago.

After more than two decades abroad, Rocha came back to his native Philippines, where he continues to showcase his talent in the local art scene. His artworks endeavor to go beyond domestic stereotypes and narratives to examine the nature of our customs, their effect, and create a productive conversation surrounding the Filipina identity.

Rocha's artworks endeavor to go beyond domestic stereotypes and narratives to inspire productive conversations about the Filipino identity.

Jun