Maureen Alcantara Villanueva

Mau, is from the province of Sorsogon, Philippines in Donsol where the endangered whale shark or Butanding are found. At the age of 16 she started to earn a living by singing in her nearby town that mainly supported her studies by singing at night and attending college during the day. 

After her stint in Malaysia from 1995-97 she went back to Phil and joined a local band where she was one of lead vocalists of her band called Whaleshark Band. But in 2013 she took a different path, she is now currently working her as domestic worker in HK. Her journey as an artist was ignited by her fascination to world renowned artists, their meticulous and expressive way in executing their masterpiece. As a self-taught artist, the learning curve is huge but she is a person of firmness to pursue her dreams. As a breed of musician, she has this strong passion for all facets of arts. She said she is also very well aware of politics philosophy and everything that comes with it. 
"Until I met and joined my Guhit Kulay family last year. Everyone in the group is such an inspiration. It gives me courage to pursue my dreams in painting. I have learned a lot from their guidance and tips, Mau said.”

Her first art competition was the HKHRAP 2018 where, out of 126 artworks from different artists, she was among the 23 shortlisted. She said it was a great experience and accomplishment she rather put. It's priceless.  Mau, create abstract arts in acrylic. Her hectic schedule did not hamper her progress. She continues to hone her skills, paint as much as she could during her spare time. She said she has two things during her day off, it’s her devotion to go to church and play guitar for the church and paint.