Ycoy Sitchon | Photography by Miko Gonzales

Event planner extraordinaire-turned-painter Ycoy Sitchon is a testament to how it's never too late to pursue one's passion. True to her signature art style—where flowers in various shapes, sizes, and symbolism take center stage—Ycoy is a late bloomer in this scene, having decided to pursue painting as she was about to turn 40. But now that she has flourished as an artist, she just keeps growing and glowing.  

In an interview with Metro.Style, Ycoy said that her love for flowers and painting started when she was really young, and her grandmother was instrumental in her developing a deeper love for this type of art. She recalled, "My lola bought me a huge set of crayons... I only had 12 pieces, 24, and then she bought me a huge one with special colors like carnation pink, gold, silver, flesh, so I played with it. Then, my love for drawing and painting started from there. Then, from crayons, she bought me the beige palette of watercolor." 

But a life and career detour saw her become a banker and an event planner who co-founded La Belle Fête.  Despite her busy schedule, she secretly nurtured her artistic side, considering painting as her safe space. "But I guess beautiful things are meant to be shared," Ycoy thought. "I started to come out of my shell and share the beauty of painting with the people around me." 

Painting also helped Ycoy cope with depression. That creative outlet was therapeutic, making her healing journey meaningful and purposeful. "If you have something you're passionate about, go for it! There's a way! And there will always be people who will help you. Nothing is impossible talaga. You can do it. If you really set your mind [on it] and your heart, of course, you can make it happen," she reflected.

Ycoy held her first solo exhibit, titled "Floral Reverie," in January 2024 at Galerie Joaquin BGC. Months later, in July, she joined the Modern and Contemporary Art Festival (MoCAF) as an installation artist with an artwork called “In the Vale of Blooms.” The following month, she marked her 40th birthday with a solo art exhibit called "Florence" at Galerie Joaquin Rockwell. The pieces from both "Floral Reverie" and "Florence" were sold out, fueling Ycoy's drive to create and inspire with every flower-themed masterpiece. 

This creative wraps up Women's Month with another solo exhibition, interestingly dubbed "Floriensoul," a 25-piece collection that showcases the heart of her art: "[It's] a vibrant blend of abstract and realist expression that evolves with me as an artist," she described. The exhibit will be on view from March 30 until April 8 at Galerie Joaquin Rockwell.

Related: La Belle Fête’s Ycoy Sitchon Joins MoCAF 2024 as an Installation Artist

Photography by Miko Gonzales 

In this exclusive interview, Ycoy talked about her upcoming exhibit, "Floriensoul," and her collaboration with Suki Jewelry:

What is the story behind the name of your upcoming exhibit?

“In my latest solo exhibition, 'Floriensoul,' I unveil a profound exploration of creative freedom and self-expression. The term 'Floriensoul,' a fusion of 'florien' (bloom) and 'soul,' reflects my journey of breaking free from artistic constraints and embracing the raw, authentic spirit of creation.

“'Floriensoul' is about surrendering to the rhythm of creation and allowing the materials to guide me. By integrating clay and pastes, I was able to break the mold—quite literally—and express emotions that traditional mediums couldn’t capture.

“It marks a pivotal moment in my creative journey as I explore my ever-evolving artistic identity. It truly represents the blossoming of my spirit, which is why I chose this title.“

What conscious efforts did you have to make this exhibit different from your previous ones?

“Departing from traditional techniques shown in my previous exhibits and branching forth from acrylic painting, I experimented with mixed media—clay, pastes, and acrylics—allowing my hands to sculpt and mold the essence of my soul directly onto the canvas. This innovative approach defies the flatness of paint, giving life and texture to my floral visions. 

“The result is a collection that pulsates with vitality. Layers of clay form petals that seem to stretch and bloom, while acrylic strokes infuse movement and energy into the composition. The imperfections and cracks in the medium become part of the narrative, reflecting the beauty found in vulnerability and transformation.“

Photography by Miko Gonzales

If you could encapsulate the mood of your collection through a travel destination, what place would be closest to it?

“When I look at the whole collection, I am transported to the enchanting landscapes of Provence, France. Known for its expansive lavender fields, delicate wildflowers, and picturesque countryside, Provence perfectly mirrors my work's botanical elegance and dreamlike quality. The region's soft pastel hues, golden light, and rustic charm resonate deeply with the ethereal and organic nature of my floral-inspired creations. 

“Provence has historically inspired great artists like Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne, who beautifully captured nature's vivid yet tranquil essence—qualities that echo in my artistic expression. The region’s focus on slow living and natural beauty aligns seamlessly with the narrative of growth and blooming found in Floriensoul. Provence reflects my art visually and embodies the emotional and spiritual essence of my creative journey.“

Also featured in your exhibit is your collaboration with Suki Jewelry. Please share what led to this partnership.

“My collaboration with Suki Jewelry was a natural and meaningful evolution of my artistic journey. As an artist who deeply connects with themes of womanhood and empowerment, I’ve always believed that art extends beyond the canvas—it’s a form of expression that transcends mediums, including style and fashion.

“Suki Jewelry’s ethos resonates with mine. Their brand, led by brilliant, young, and professional creatives, brings a fresh and distinctive flavor to fine jewelry. This alignment in values and aesthetic vision made our partnership not just seamless but deeply authentic.

“Beyond painting, styling and accessorizing have long been integral to my self-expression. Jewelry, much like art, tells a story, evokes emotion, and captures individuality. Collaborating with Suki allowed me to channel my creativity into a different medium while celebrating femininity and craftsmanship. It’s a collaboration rooted in shared artistry and empowerment, and I’m honored to be part of this creative narrative.“

Photography by Miko Gonzales

What are the pieces that are part of the collection?

“The Ycoy Sitchon x Suki Jewelry Collection is a heartfelt extension of my artistry, where painting meets fine craftsmanship. This exclusive 10-piece collection of solid gold earrings draws inspiration from the ethereal blooms that grace my Floriensoul paintings. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans, capturing the delicate forms and textures of the flowers I’ve molded onto my canvas.

“In homage to the universal language of nature, we’ve named each piece after the word 'flower' in different languages, symbolizing the diversity and beauty of femininity and growth. This limited-edition collection will debut during my artist reception at Galerie Joaquin on March 30, with only one pair of each design available on the day itself.

“While we will accept custom orders following the exhibit, the collection will remain exclusive, as each piece is uniquely handcrafted. This collaboration with Suki Jewelry celebrates artistry, craftsmanship, and the timeless elegance of nature—a true fusion of my passion for painting and personal expression through style.“

Photography by Miko Gonzales

What connection do you see between painting and designing jewelry? 

“The connection between painting and designing jewelry lies in the shared pursuit of storytelling and self-expression. Both mediums allow me to channel emotions, memories, and experiences into tangible forms that resonate with others.

“In my paintings, particularly in Floriensoul, I capture the delicate essence of blooming flowers—symbols of growth, transformation, and femininity. Each brushstroke breathes life into petals and textures, much like how a jeweler molds gold and precious materials into intricate designs. With my collaboration with Suki Jewelry, I sought to extend this narrative into wearable art, allowing the spirit of my canvas to be embodied in fine, handcrafted pieces.

“Jewelry, like painting, is deeply personal and expressive. It holds stories, emotions, and identity within its form. By translating the flowers from my artwork into golden, sculptural earrings, I bridge the worlds of visual art and adornment. This collection is not merely about aesthetics but also about celebrating womanhood, individuality, and craftsmanship—echoing the ethos that has defined my artistic journey.“

Check out Ycoy Sitchon's solo exhibit, "Floriensoul," at Galerie Joaquin Rockwell from March 30 until April 8.