(Born: January 23, 1978) Mary Jane “MJ” Raymundo Palma is a self-taught visual artist from the vibrant heart of Sampaloc, Manila. Inspired by her cousin, Manong Dante, and mentored by Mr. Joseph Albao, founder of the Vice Versa Artists Group, MJ found her true calling in the world of art. Despite pursuing degrees in BS Accountancy and Nursing and completing a caregiving course, her heart has always belonged to the canvas. Since 2019, MJ has been an active member of the Vice Versa Artists Group, where she was honored with the esteemed roles of President and Project Coordinator. She is also a proud member of Daloy Likha International Arts and Nature Society Inc. and has participated in numerous nationwide exhibitions since 2019. MJ’s artistic journey began with a deep fascination for koi fish. Her early works captured their grace and vibrancy, each textured scale shimmering with golden edges – symbolizing the colorful and relentless journey of life. Through these paintings, she expressed the resilience and beauty she has witnessed in the world around her. Her art is a testament to love, resilience, and the beauty of everyday life. MJ finds strength and inspiration in her journey, transforming challenges into a profound source of creativity. Her Mother and Child series reflects the deep, unconditional bond of family – an ode to the unwavering love and sacrifice of parenthood. Through this series, she conveys the warmth, strength, and tenderness that define her personal experiences. The Happy Kids series, on the other hand, captures the innocence and wonder of childhood, celebrating the joy found in life’s simplest moments. It serves as a reminder that happiness is not defined by circumstances but by love, laughter, and cherished memories. MJ’s purpose as an artist is to radiate positivity and inspire through her creations. She believes that art knows no age or boundaries – it is a limitless expression of the soul. With each brushstroke, she shares pieces of her heart, fragments of her journey, and a beacon of hope for the future. Through her work, she invites everyone to embrace the beauty of life, resilience, and boundless creativity. Present and Ongoing Work As Palma continues to exhibit nationwide, her work reflects both continuity and growth. Her thematic series evolve organically, maintaining their symbolic clarity while incorporating new layers of interpretation. Each exhibition positions her as both storyteller and custodian of values—using art as a means to assert positivity, preserve memory, and affirm resilience. Her presence within artist collectives ensures that her work remains socially engaged, dialogical, and connected to broader conversations in Philippine art. In doing so, she secures her role not only as a painter of compelling narratives but also as a contributor to the living fabric of Filipino cultural life. “Chronicles of Time,” my first solo exhibition held at ARTablado, Robinsons Galleria Ortigas from October 1–15, 2025, was a heartfelt journey through memory, womanhood, and the timeless bond between mother and child. Each piece unfolded stories of the Filipino spirit where dreams, love, and resilience intertwine capturing moments that transcend time and echo the essence of home.
