Collection: Inad Oronos

Bernardo Oronos Jr. (b. 2000) of Rosario is for most part, a self-taught painter. However, the guidance of Joseph Albao also helped him develop his craft. His first works were caricatures but have since metamorphosed to acrylic painting.

His trademark subject is 'Pepe,' a cartoonish character symbolizing the Filipino's most famous protagonist, Jose Rizal, who,according to him, represents the youth of today. Always present in his works, Pepe's hidden message is for the youth of today to be free from social ills who, in turn, would bring positive changes to the society. This social concern of his was actually a result of him being editorial cartoonist during his elementary years.

Starting of with pencil, Oronos later diversified his medium to include oil and acrylic.

His works are executed so as to show the whimsicality of his mind and his fervor to bring societal change. He also plays with the idea of contentment in his pieces even if challenges abound. In these piece, he calls for the freedom from colonialism or, aptly, neocolonialism; the improvement of life; and a better future for children.

Also a muralist, Oronos now teaches young kids-elementary students in his community-on the rudiments of arts.