Shaira Luna, Artu Nepomuceno, and Pepe Diokno are three Filipino visual artists who have carved their paths in the world of art, each defying expectations and embracing the thrill of creative exploration. Their stories are a testament to the power of risk-taking, experimentation, and unwavering commitment to their craft – qualities that resonate with the spirit of Glenfiddich, a Scottish distillery known for its pioneering spirit and dedication to honoring like-minded individuals, known as ‘mavericks’.
Shaira Luna, a fashion and commercial photographer, initially planned to become a doctor. But fate had other plans. Drawn to the world of music, she started photographing musicians and the band scene in the 2010s, a path that was unexpected for someone with her background. Despite no formal education in photography, she saw every shoot as a chance to learn and grow, pushing boundaries and defying genre limitations. Luna’s work is characterized by a playful curiosity, transcending traditional norms. This unique approach allows her to blend commercial work with her artistic style, embracing the technical challenges and learning opportunities it presents.
Artu Nepomuceno, whose passion for capturing “chaos” defines his photography, initially faced a detour on his path to filmmaking. Inspired by his late grandfather, legendary film producer and director Luis Nepomuceno, he was initially discouraged from pursuing filmmaking and directed towards photography. This unexpected turn proved to be a valuable lesson. His grandfather instilled the principle that a single image could tell a story as powerfully as a thousand images in a film, shaping his photographic approach. Nepomuceno’s work embodies this principle, showcasing the power of a single image to capture narratives and evoke emotions. He envisions a future for Philippine photography rooted in education, advocating for impactful visuals that tell meaningful stories and prioritize quality over quantity.
Pepe Diokno’s journey into filmmaking began at the young age of 21 with the film *Engkwentro*, driven by a passion that compelled him to take significant personal and financial risks. Although he initially wished he had honed his skills through more short films and diverse roles, Diokno’s determination led him to advertising, where he directed commercials that went viral on social media. His approach to storytelling is marked by consistency – a structured framework allowing for improvisation. This allows him to push boundaries while staying true to the heart of the story. Diokno emphasizes the importance of maintaining authenticity, even when navigating commercial demands and considerations. He remains committed to his craft, returning to filmmaking with the 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival hit *GomBurZa* and currently working on a musical adaptation of *Himala*. With a renewed vigor, he’s eager to adapt to new platforms while hoping for a resurgence in cinema-going experiences, believing in the enduring power of classic mediums like vinyl and theatre.
These three Filipino mavericks, each with their unique journeys and unwavering commitment to their crafts, embody the spirit of Glenfiddich’s ‘Where Next Club’. They remind us that pushing boundaries, embracing risks, and staying true to one’s artistic vision are key to creating lasting impact and inspiring generations to come.
