Mom and Dad worked hard to send me to a good school, taught me the value of hardwork, and sent me to places that opened my eyes to an amazing world of culture, peoples, foods, and art. In the 80's they gave me the opportunity to be a foreign exchange student at the University of the Philippines, Diliman. I was immersed in all things Filipino, and came to appreciate and embrace my rich heritage.

Six years later...after attending LMU, I went to visit the Philippines again, new baby girl in tow, to escape the chaos of my hectic life in LA. I loved the Philippines, and stayed for about 6 months. That's when I met Sabrina and Rodel. Sabrina was an instant friend, and help me to change my life altogether. To her, I am indebted. She and Rodel were newly married. Rodel was a member of the Side A band. Their music dominated the airwaves. God gave some people more talent than others, I concluded. I moved back to LA, and remained friends with the Gonzalez'.

Fast forward fifteen years. I'm married with kids. Working. Life stuff. I decide to do a study of Filipino artists--Amorsolo, Luna, Hidalgo, Gonzalez (Rick, that is). A trip to Italy's museums, the Accademia in Florence, Uffizi, Vatican, and the cities of Rome, Florence, and Bologna triggered my curiosity even moreso to delve into the supernatural world of the artist and his creations. This is definitely a talent I respect, and am convinced that can only be imparted by God Almighty. My past employers, Eli Broad and Stewart Resnick, have been generous patrons of the arts in Los Angeles. I have had the privilege to attend and access many local art functions and museums...gratis. Art and I were meant to be.

In the meantime, the Gonzalez' moved to Hawaii. I remember Rodel mentioning he was staying with his cousin, an artist, and that he himself was going to get into "painting." Didn't think much of it...until I googled his name and realized that he was an artist. Not the doodling, hobbyist type, most of us know. Lo and behold, there's a gallery in Haleiwa, and it's featuring art by Rodel Gonzalez! What!?! How much talent can this guy have? Who is Rodel Gonzalez? He is a professional musician, songwriter, performer, a gourmet chef, and an artist in the truest sense of the word. I was quite impressed, and happy that I didn't "burn bridges" there.

Presently, the Gonzalez family resides in LA, and I've had the good fortune of visiting Rodel's studio, and watching the "master" at work. From white canvas to masterpiece! Hereon, I'll be noting my thoughts and observations of this artistic genius at play.

"The everyday lives of people and their surroundings are my inspiration. I love the interplay of light and shadows, and the details in expressions and structures. I find it challenging and rewarding to depict the changing moods of each day." -Rodel