Leo Cunanan, Jr. was born in the Philippines and moved with his family to Canada when he was 9 years old. His early interest was in music and he took up drum lessons at age 13. At 21, he joined a band as a drummer and toured with Butch and The Sundance Kids professionally for a number of years. In the late 90’s, he studied graphic arts and worked as in-house graphic artist for a family-owned publication, Dahong Pilipino, the Filipino Canadian Community and Business Directory, of which he is now the president and publisher.
Leo developed a strong interest in fine arts upon meeting the maestro SYM Mendoza who provided him the inspiration to pursue an art career. “Everything I know in art, I learned from Tito SYM; he opened the door for me to discover my potentials and really enjoy painting more than anything else.” Leo works in pastel, charcoal, watercolour; and also enjoys creating digital art. Leo is an Active member of DIMASALANG III International Artist Group, led by SYM Mendoza and Active Member of the Federation Of Canadian Artists.
AWARDS
2015 Third Place Award for “Melissa”, Federation of Canadian Artists’ AUTUMN SALON SHOW
2013 Award of Excellence for “Wine and Fruit Medley”, Federation of Canadian Artists’ (FCA) STILL LIFE SHOW
2013 Finalist for City of Vancouver’s IRONCLAD ART MANHOLE DESIGN CHALLENGE
Visit Leo’s website for a full list of exhibitions and galleries of his work.