Nemiranda

Nemesio "Nemiranda" Miranda Jr. was born on February 14, 1949, in Angono, Rizal. His artistic journey was influenced by two prominent members of the Order of National Artists of the Philippines. Francisco Coching, a Filipino comic book illustrator, served as his role model when he began painting at the age of five. Carlos "Botong" Francisco, a Filipino muralist and National Artist from his hometown, further influenced his artistic development and involvement in scouting through the Boy Scouts of the Philippines. In 1970, Nemiranda graduated from the University of Santo Tomas with a degree in Fine Arts, majoring in Painting.

During his youth, one of Nemiranda's notable accomplishments was winning First Place in the Shankar International Competition in India at the age of 15. His artwork, titled "Storm," was featured alongside other award-winning entries from artists worldwide in Shankar's Children's Art Number, Volume 16, Indraprastha Press, 1965. Nemiranda's imaginative figurative style of art, encompassing allegorical creatures inspired by legends, folklore, and local life, became his signature.

He excelled not only in painting but also in sculpture and mural painting. Some of his significant works include the People Power I Mural, EDSA II Relief Sculptures, and The Way of Mary, a collection of 20 relief sculptures depicting the Mysteries of the Holy Rosary from EDSA Shrine to Antipolo. In 1975, Nemiranda co-founded the Angono Ateliers Association to recognize the exceptional talent of Angono's artists. He played a crucial role in establishing the Angono School for the Arts, nurturing young and talented students in the arts. Additionally, Nemiranda promoted Angono's cultural heritage and tourism through the well-celebrated Higantes Festival and established the Nemiranda Family Museum, Nemiranda Atelier Restoran, and Nemiranda Art Camp to engage people in the arts.

With over 100 solo exhibits and numerous group exhibits, Nemiranda has made significant contributions to culture and the arts. His remarkable artworks, such as "Ang Nuno," "Habagat," "The Mermaid of Angono," "Maria Makiling," "Malakas at Maganda," and "Bernardo Carpio," continue to captivate audiences and showcase his artistic prowess.