Meet Philippines-based Artist Jose E. Dalisay V
Jose E. Dalisay V is a painter and visual artist based in Cavite, Philippines. You can find his work on Instagram.
CATHOLIC ARTIST CONNECTION: How do understand your vocation as a Catholic artist?
JOSE E. DALISAY V: Yes, I call myself a Catholic artist. Firstly, because of my baptism in the Catholic Church, and secondly, because I primarily make Catholic-themed artworks. I think that by creating Catholic art, I am able to make our faith more known, so it can be a form of evangelization, especially in our secular society. By creating artworks that are a mix of contemporary and traditional, I'm hoping that through them, I can teach others about our faith.
Where have you found support in the Church for your vocation as an artist?
Thankfully, the Philippines is a predominantly Catholic country, so there will always be people here who support Catholic art. One of my paintings was bought by our parish priest, for which I am very thankful and grateful.
Where have you found support among your fellow artists for your Catholic faith?
When I first joined an exhibit as a full-time artist, the theme of the exhibit is in accordance with the Lenten season, so the topic is Catholic at its core! And it is in this exhibit that I got to meet many other artists who sometimes make Christian art, most of whom are clearly Catholic. And on social media, I found support from them whenever I post a new Catholic painting, and I'm very glad I met them because of that exhibit.
Theotokos.
How can the artistic world be more welcoming to artists of faith?
Based on my experience, at least here in the Philippines, the visual arts world is quite welcoming when it comes to Catholic art. However, the entertainment industry is quite unwelcoming, at times. For instance, I once worked as an animator for a Disney/Marvel show, and I had to voluntarily quit that job when I perceived that I cannot justify working in a kids' cartoon show that teaches dangerous ideologies that are contrary to the teachings of the Church. So when it comes that industry of the arts, I find it to be very unwelcoming and spiritually dangerous, especially since those ideologies become more and more prevalent even in children's media these days.
Where in your city do you regularly find artistic fulfillment?
I have recently been recruited as a member of Brushworx PH, a group aimed at supporting, promoting, and empowering Filipino artists through exhibits, training, and workshops. But since I am just a new member, I can't say I have much experience yet being a member. As for places I go to for inspiration, most of my inspiration are actually found online, specifically when I look for artworks in Instagram or Pinterest. When it comes to actual physical locations, I have to say that Catholic churches with beautiful art and architecture definitely inspire me.
What is your daily spiritual practice?
I have a regular confessor, whom I met in a confessional box in Quiapo. He is a confessor who I can truly open up to and talk to about all my shameful errors, and he is definitely one of the most patient and trustworthy men I have ever met. I thank God for allowing me to meet such a person, and I consider him a gift.
Salvator Mundi
What is your daily artistic practice?
To be honest, I don't draw everyday. I regularly take breaks in between paintings, because it can be exhausting for me to paint constantly. But for those who really want to paint daily for practice, I recommend continuously searching for inspirations that are in keeping with good morals and in a manner not contrary to the faith.
Describe a recent day in which you were most completely living out your vocation as an artist.
Perhaps my "Salvator Mundi" painting, which I recently finished, brought me the most joy and satisfaction compared to most of my other recent artworks. It was very experimental for me, but I'm really happy with how it turned out and it motivates me to try the same techniques in my future artworks.
What are your top 3 pieces of advice for Catholic artists post-graduation?
First, always obey God and do not make moral compromises. Second, be patient and know that the Lord has plans for you. Third, obey the Catholic Church: always attend Sunday Mass and Holy Days of Obligation, and live a sacramental life.