Jayson Dominguez Duclan: Self-Taught Igorot Artist from Benguet Shaping Cordilleran Portrait Art

Category: Arts & Culture | Cordillera, Philippines | Feature Article

In the mountainous Cordillera region of Northern Luzon, art continues to serve as a powerful expression of identity and lived experience. Among its emerging artists is Jayson Dominguez Duclan, a self-taught Igorot artist from Benguet whose portrait works reflect resilience, culture, and emotional depth.

Early Life and Artistic Beginnings

Born in La Trinidad, Benguet and raised in Baguio City, Duclan discovered drawing at an early age. He often filled school notebooks with sketches of portraits, characters, and everyday scenes.

He later pursued a degree in Criminology at the University of the Cordilleras but was unable to complete it due to financial challenges. During this time, he worked in a bakery in Baguio City while continuing to draw in his free time.

Self-Taught Artistic Development

Without formal training, Duclan developed his skills through constant practice and commissioned portrait work. He began by drawing for friends and gradually transitioned into paid portrait commissions.

His artistic style focuses on realism, emotional expression, and cultural identity rooted in Cordilleran life.

“Art became the only way I could express what I could not say in words through experience and life challenges.”

Family Struggles and Creative Purpose

As the eldest sibling, Duclan carried family responsibility early in life after the passing of his father. Financial challenges became more difficult when his mother was diagnosed with a serious illness.

During this period, commissioned portrait work became his primary source of support for his family. Art served both as emotional expression and livelihood.

“Every portrait I created during difficult times carried meaning beyond the artwork itself.”

Growth Through Tam-awan Village

A key stage in his development came through his involvement with Tam-awan Village in Baguio City, a cultural space known for promoting Cordilleran heritage and Indigenous art.

There, he worked as a live portrait sketch artist, drawing visitors in real time and refining his technique and speed.

Recognition and Art Platform Exposure

Duclan’s works gained attention for their emotional realism and cultural grounding. His profile has been featured on contemporary art platforms showcasing Filipino artists and Indigenous creativity.

His portfolio is also listed in online art collections such as Nami Art Gallery, highlighting his growing visibility in the digital art space.

Collaboration with Kape Balai

In a recent collaboration, Duclan’s artwork was featured in a coffee packaging design project with Kape Balai. This initiative brought his art into everyday consumer products, expanding its cultural reach beyond galleries.

Conclusion

Today, Jayson Dominguez Duclan continues his journey as a full-time visual artist in the Cordillera region. His work reflects resilience, cultural identity, and the lived experiences of Indigenous communities.

Jayson Dominguez Duclan: Inspiring Igorot Artist from Benguet Who Turned Struggles into Success Through Portrait Art