BenCab holds nude painting session in San Francisco

SAN FRANCISCO–Arguably the best-selling painter of his generation, Philippine National Artist Benedicto Cabrera shared his passion for painting at a nude painting session with Filipino-American artists at the Richard Gervais Collection Warehouse in San Francisco.

The 69-year old painter from Manila, more popularly known as BenCab, is widely hailed as a master of contemporary Philippine art, who loves to work with figures.

“My interest in figures never fades. There’s always a character. When I have a new model to paint, I have a different perspective,” said Cabrera.

BenCab’s creations during the painting session were auctioned to help raise funds for a Philippine collection at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco.

“I’ve been admiring Ben’s work for many years and it’s just a good opportunity to be here and to support the Asian Art Museum,” said Richard Gervais, an avid Asian art collector.

BenCab has made it his mission to teach children about painting through his foundation.

His biggest project so far is the BenCab Museum in Baguio, which not only houses his own work, but art pieces from new Filipino artists.

He says being a National Artist is a commitment.

“There’s more responsibility and you have to give back,” said Cabrera.

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