MANILA, Philippines—Self-taught artist Arlene de Castro-Añonuevo (Adecastroan) donated a painting to the birthing section of the East Avenue Medical Center (EAMC) in Quezon City in a simple turnover ceremony last Monday, June 25, 2012.

The appropriately themed painting, titled Madonna and Child of the Sampaguitas, is done in soft pastel. Dr. Elenita Mojica-Veloso, head of the EAMC Birthing Section, and her staff were on hand for the presentation of the painting.

Arlene, an AB Sociology graduate of the University of the Philippines, learned the basics from Filipino master artist Fernando Sena, and Arte Pintura artists Addie Cukingnam, Azor Pazcoguin and Rey Ademis. She started painting full-time in 2003 after she opted to retire early from Cathay Pacific Airways as stewardess and later from Midtown Hotel.

As a child, Arlene spent hours sketching and drawing in her home province of Zambales. Today, the prolific artist combines her passion for her art with her love for animals, allocating portions of proceeds from the sale of her artworks for the maintenance of a shelter for tens of stray dogs and cats.

Arlene also has an ongoing exhibit with the group Chain of Colors at the Sining Kamalig until July 3, 2012.

Visit Sining Kamalig at Level 4, Gateway Mall, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City.—Rick Alberto