When you first encounter the name “Turs” within the vibrant landscape of Philippine art, it evokes an air of intrigue, reminiscent of iconic single names like Madonna and Cher. In a culture where artists typically lay bare their identities by signing their full baptismal names—seeking recognition and carving their niche in the spotlight—Turs stands apart, enveloped in an enchanting veil of mystery. This persona thrives in a fiercely competitive art world, amplified by the omnipresent glare of social media, where the public clamors not just to appreciate artwork but to delve into the artist's psyche. Turs embodies a remarkable duality.

While remaining a private figure, she shares her creative spirit with the world through an impressive trifecta of artistic expression: painting, photography, and poetry. Her poetry, in particular, captivates with its unexpected depth—a bridge between the mediums of visual artistry and lyrical reflection. An accomplished poet, Turs’ recent collection of poems weaves tales of love, loss, and longing, serving as a personal, meditative journey that explores the intricate vulnerability and soaring aspirations of the human experience. A prolific wordsmith, she seizes inspiration in fleeting moments, all while juggling the responsibilities of being a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and homemaker.

In a delightful revelation, Turs showcases her extraordinary sensitivity to light and shadow through her photography. Each image becomes an eloquent exercise in the formalization of silence and solitude, where even a simple leaf or petal captures the viewer’s gaze, lingering intimately in memory. This seamless transition reveals her poetic vision—a captivating fusion of simplicity and sophistication that resonates deeply.

As a painter, Turs embodies the spirit of a cosmic abstractionist, unbound and inspired. She explores diverse media, conjuring darkly ethereal landscapes on canvas, encapsulating the essence of a poet's endless twilight. Her art transcends mere aesthetic appeal, inviting the audience into a realm where emotions and artistry intertwine, creating an immersive experience that lingers long after the viewing ends.

—CID REYES