Born in Paete, Laguna in 1947, Manuel D. Baldemor is a multi-talented artist known for his paintings, sculptures, prints, and illustrations. His signature style blends geometric forms with his rural memories, creating a unique visual language.
A graduate of the University of Santo Tomas College of Fine Arts and Design (recognized as a Most Outstanding Alumnus in 2007), Baldemor’s artistic journey began in 1972 with his debut exhibition at the Hidalgo Gallery. That same year, his achievements soared as he won the grand prize in the Art Association of the Philippines’ painting competition and represented the Philippines at the XIV Salon International Art in Paris.
Baldemor’s belief in “art as birthright” and “art without borders” is evident throughout his career. This philosophy led to a fruitful relationship with the Philippine Foreign Service. In 1975, he showcased his work in Paris, sponsored by the French Ministry of Arts and Culture and supported by the Philippine Embassy in Paris under then Ambassador Luis Salcedo Moreno. Soon after, he held exhibitions at the Philippine Embassies in London and Germany, fostering cultural understanding through art.
Baldemor has actively collaborated with Philippine embassies and consulates worldwide, showcasing the country’s cultural heritage through exhibitions. He generously donates paintings to promote Philippine culture during National Day celebrations. His artworks now grace the walls of many of the embassies and consulates he has visited.
Baldemor’s artistic influence truly knows no borders. His epic mural “Pasalamat” was the Philippine gift to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on its 40th anniversary in 1997. In 2005, his watercolor painting, “Philippine Skyland” was unveiled and presented by then DFA Secretary for Foreign Affairs Alberto G. Romulo as the Philippine gift to the United Nations Headquarters in New York. In 2009, Baldemor collaborated with French artisans to install a glass mural mosaic inside the Cathedral of St. Therese of Lisieux. His artistic residency in Mexico for the 250th anniversary of the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade and his 18-year contribution of artworks for UNICEF greeting cards further solidify his impact in the international community.
This website aims to showcase the artistic legacy of our nation to foster cultural diplomacy and mutual understanding to enhance diplomatic relations with other nations through the universal language of art.
It will also serve as a resource for research and education that could be made accessible to researchers and the general public to have an appreciation of our artistic, cultural and diplomatic heritage.
