CHICAGO, Illinois — Multi-awarded painter, Glenn A. Bautista, lost his one year and five month fight against colon cancer May 6 in Houston, Texas. His wife, Lorna, immigrated to the U.S. six years ago. He joined her a year later on May 6, 2009. They have one son, David.
Bautista’s works gained recognition as early as his student days at University of Sto. Tomas and later at the University of the Philippines where he earned his fine arts degree. Among his early triumphs was the First Prize Award in the Shell Art tilt in 1968. The following year, he was again First Prize winner, this time of the Aguinaldo Centennial Art competition.
He was the seventh child of a Methodist minister, the late I.P. Bautista. His faith strongly influenced the theme of his early paintings, which are now on display in a number of religious institutions.
Bautista’s latter productions evolved into more universal subjects, incorporating his skillful use of colors that reflect the inherent optimism of an artist who embraced hope and faith.
Glenn received arts grants both in the U.S. and Europe in the 1970s and early 1980s.
The gallery at his house in Imus, Cavite, is managed by Doris and Elizabeth (Bessie) Rifareal, daughters of his sister, Loida. It displays examples of his contemporary art works. Glenn and Lorna still maintained their house in Paranaque City where he was active in civic organizations. It provided much of his opportunity to play golf, which became his other passion.
A memorial service was held at Bellaire United Methodist Church in Houston on May 7. Rev. Eduardo C. Cajiuat and Rev. Danny Hernaez were the participating ministers. In attendance were many friends and his siblings including Eunice (Fil) Laureano, Ignacio, Jr. (Julie), Miriam and Edwin (Riza) and their son, Dan. His sister, Loida, and brother, Johnny (Tess), and other relatives and friends will join his son in a planned service this month in Manila.
Cremation will follow. His wife will bring his remains to Manila in due time. To know more about Glenn’s art, visit https://www.glennbautista.com/profile/biosketch-awards.html
