Raul Agas’s participation in “Mezzo at its CORE” brought a culturally enriching experience to Mezzo Hotel’s guests. For one week, visitors were greeted by an impressive collection of Raul’s artworks, each piece telling a story of perseverance, passion, and creativity. The event not only highlighted Raul’s artistic talents but also underscored Mezzo Hotel’s commitment to supporting local artists and contributing to the cultural significance of the community.
Raul Agas’s journey to becoming a celebrated artist is nothing short of inspiring. Born into a family of commercial artists, Raul is a third-generation artist, following in the footsteps of his grandfather and father who worked on signboard lettering and t-shirt printing. However, Raul’s love for painting set him on a unique path. He discovered his innate skill for painting without any formal training, inspired by legendary artists like Van Gogh, whose works he admired from books.
From a young age, Raul showed an exceptional affinity for art. At just eight years old, he began experimenting with crayons and watercolors, creating his first artworks. He was also encouraged to do on-the-spot paintings, such as flower vases, which helped him hone his skills. Despite growing up in a poor family, Raul’s determination to pursue his passion never wavered. He would attend art exhibits to observe and learn, despite not having the means to formally study art.
At the age of 23, Raul started painting seriously and began participating in art contests. His talent quickly garnered recognition, and one significant milestone was his participation in the Philip Morris event, where he was selected as one of the finalists out of 400 entries from Cebu. This achievement marked a turning point in his career, as it brought him media attention and helped establish his reputation in the art world.
Over the years, Raul Agas has received numerous awards and accolades for his work. Now 57, he continues to evolve as an artist, always striving to refine his style. His dedication to painting has led him to host eight solo exhibitions throughout his career. Raul’s distinctive style, characterized by the use of an ATM card as a painting tool, has set him apart in the art community. This innovative technique, prompted by a mentor’s challenge to find a unique painting method, has become his signature and brought a remarkable touch to his impressionist works.
Raul’s journey has not been without challenges. During the pandemic, he had to temporarily set aside his passion for painting to earn a living. He worked for IPI, painting large tank posters, a job that required immense effort and resilience. Despite the harsh conditions, Raul completed this task in four months, showcasing his unwavering determination and talent. Once the job was finished, he returned to his true passion—painting—and has since dedicated himself to his art full-time.
Today, Raul’s clients include art collectors and lawyers who appreciate the intricacy and emotional depth of his paintings. His works, often nostalgic scenes crafted with the unconventional ATM card technique, captivate viewers and demonstrate his unique perspective and skill.
Mezzo Hotel’s decision to feature Raul Agas as part of their “Mezzo at its CORE” program highlights their commitment to supporting and uplifting local talent. By providing Raul with a platform to exhibit his paintings, Mezzo Hotel not only enriches the cultural experience of their guests but also reaffirms their role as a community-focused establishment. The week-long exhibition allowed visitors to connect with Raul’s art and his remarkable story, inspiring many with his dedication and passion.
Raul’s exhibition was a testament to his incredible journey and talent, offering guests a unique and enriching experience. Through “Mezzo at its CORE,” Mezzo Hotel continues to make a meaningful impact on the community, celebrating and nurturing the diverse talents that make up its ever-evolving cultural landscape.
