Baguio city: Brenda Subido-Dacpano, a retired journalist in this city, is now immersing herself in the world of visual arts, focusing on themes of social realism. Many of her artworks prominently feature the jeepney, known as the King of the Road, a subject she began exploring during the contentious debates over its modernization-a change that sparked significant protests among public utility vehicle drivers.

According to Philippines News Agency, Brenda expressed her motivation to preserve the image of the jeepney in an exclusive interview at the Art Market event held at SM City Baguio. She explained that with the jeepney modernization program, there are mixed feelings, with some supporting it and others opposing it. Brenda sees the eventual phaseout of the traditional jeepney as inevitable and desires to immortalize it for future generations who might never witness its iconic form.

Brenda’s artworks serve as a tribute to the jeepney, a vehicle that has long been integral to Filipino transportation and culture. Painting provides her with joy and relaxation, and selling her pieces is an added bonus. She recounted an instance where an interested buyer at the art market event was captivated by one of her jeepney-themed works and mentioned selling four more pieces during the event.

Her artistic journey has taken her to exhibitions across the United States, various regions in Italy, and Malaysia, where her jeepney-themed pieces have been particularly popular. Brenda’s creations include both painted depictions and items crafted from recycled or upcycled materials, such as buttons, hair clips, and mobile phone cards.

Brenda’s passion for art began during her elementary school days, initially as a means to earn recess money or snacks. After retiring from journalism, she now dedicates herself full-time to visual artistry, finding peace and relaxation in her creative pursuits. Besides jeepneys and flowers, Brenda also explores social issues through her art, aiming to resonate with ordinary individuals.

The SM Art Market, Brenda notes, provides an excellent platform for budding artists to showcase their work and learn about staging exhibits. It offers a cost-free venue for artists who might find gallery and museum fees prohibitive, while also making art more accessible to the public by offering affordable pieces.