Eva Millan-Dantes

Eva Millan-Dantes is a visual artist, cancer survivor, speaker, and founder of
ArtBeats of Eve, a ministerial pursuit that fuses her deep faith with her love for art.
Born in Cagayan de Oro, she discovered her creative spark at a young
age—improvising with crayons and even her mother’s makeup when traditional art
supplies were out of reach. Although she earned her degree in Hotel and Restaurant
Management from Mindanao State University and graduated Cum Laude, her
artistic spirit never faded.

Her journey into art took a deeper turn in 2015 after being diagnosed with both
breast and thyroid cancer. In the midst of pain and uncertainty, Eva turned to
creativity for solace, purchasing her first watercolor set and drawing pad. Painting
became her anchor—offering purpose, healing, and joy during some of her darkest
moments.

In 2020, she began formal training through an Art Discourse class at Buenas Artes
Gallery under Celeste Lecaroz. This experience sparked a hunger to learn from
some of the Philippines’ most respected artists, including Iris Babao-Uy, Julius
Legaspi (Atelier de Legaspi), Pinky Peralta, Beth Robles (Play Crafts), Zeze Lai,
Ame of Ambbali’s Art, and fellow cancer warrior Hazel Chong Hong. A pivotal
moment in her development came in October 2022, when she studied under Maestro
Fernando Sena, the Father of the Philippine Art Workshop. His humility and
generosity left a lasting impression on her journey.

Beyond painting, Eva is a dedicated advocate for the local art scene. She organizes
and hosts exhibits that uplift emerging artists and creative communities. Through her
involvement with Anvil of Creativity, she co-hosts virtual art talks that spotlight the
stories of Filipino visual artists—amplifying voices and encouraging healing through
art.

At the heart of her ministry is her original concept: the Devotional Art Course. This
faith-centered program blends biblical reflection with creative practice, offering
participants a space to encounter healing, discover identity, and deepen purpose
through art rooted in God’s Word.

Equally passionate about facilitating spiritual growth, Eva also leads small group
discussions focused on the Bible—an extension of her faith and foundational to her
identity. These gatherings are intimate spaces where participants are drawn closer to
God and inspired to explore the divine through thoughtful conversation and creative
expression. This practice not only grounds her ministry but continually fuels her
artistry.

In June 2023, Eva held her first solo exhibit, Sidlak, at Gateway Gallery, showcasing
55 artworks. The exhibit was paired with the launch of her memoir, Why Three,
Lord? Chronicles of a Cancer Warrior—a poignant account of her battle with cancer
and her transformative spiritual journey. The event also raised support for charitable
organizations including Wipe Every Tear Foundation, Open Doors Ministry, and
Radya Al-Salam Foundation, Inc.