Father of Composed Photorealism and Builder of Filipino Artists.
Dr. Aladin Septimo Antiqueño transformed Philippine art from individual mastery into a multiplying legacy by pioneering Composed Photorealism - a method that integrates technical precision, narrative composition, and teachable systems that have produced generations of Filipino artists.
Born in Cainta on November 22, 1971, with roots in Cadiz City, Antique, and Cebu, his work reflects a deep commitment to Filipino identity and cultural continuity. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts major in Painting from the Philippine Women’s University (1992), pursued advanced studies at the University of the Philippines (Master of Fine Arts units), and holds a Master of Arts in Education from World Citi Colleges. He was conferred a Doctor of Fine Arts (Honoris Causa) from SJUS (Pennsylvania, USA), and a Doctor of Education from Greenville College (Philippines).
As Dean of Fine Arts at GK College of Business, Arts, and Technology since 2018, Dr. Antiqueño has played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of Filipino artists. With over a decade of teaching experience, he has mentored thousands of students across all ages, many of whom have become award-winning artists in national competitions. His curriculum bridges traditional and contemporary practices, cultivating both mastery and innovation.
He is the President of UFAP (United Fine Artists of the Philippines) and co-founder of the GK Art Gallery in Tagaytay, where he continues to advance Philippine art through education, mentorship, and creative leadership.
An actively exhibiting visual artist since the 1990s, his significant body of work includes 23 Legacy Solo and Select Exhibits, alongside numerous group exhibitions. His exceptional talent was recognized with the Grand Prize Winner (Oil & Acrylic) at the Shell NSAC in 1992.
In recognition of his lifelong contributions to Philippine visual arts, he was conferred the 1st National Treasure for Visual Arts Award at the inaugural FAMAS Prestige Awards in 2025.
Committed to nurturing future generations of artists, Dr. Antiqueño founded the Antiqueño Scholarship for the Arts in 2021, providing access to art education for aspiring talents. His students have consistently earned top awards in national art competitions, reflecting the strength of his mentorship and training system.
Extending his advocacy beyond the classroom, he conducts free fine arts classes and workshops in various communities. He co-founded a Fine Arts school in Cadiz City, Negros Occidental - his mother’s hometown - strengthening regional access to quality art education and fostering new centers of artistic development outside traditional urban hubs.
Through decades of artistic practice and education, Dr. Antiqueño has contributed to the growth of Philippine visual arts not only through his own works, but through the artists he has trained, mentored, and inspired - ensuring a continuing and expanding legacy for future generations.