From beauty pageant to brushstrokes of the soul: The many colors of Hemilyn Escudero-Tamayo
Before making her mark in the art world, Hemilyn Escudero-Tamayo had already earned several prestigious titles — Mrs. Tourism Universe 2021, former president of the Mutya ng Pilipinas beauty pageant, and a respected civic leader. But beyond the crown, public engagements, and her roles as a wife and mother, there exists a quieter yet equally powerful force in her life: art.
Born in Manila, Escudero-Tamayo now leads a vibrant, fulfilling life with her husband, Richard Tamayo — president of the Perpetual Help Medical Center in Las Piñas — and their two sons, Richard Antonio Jr. and Oscar Antonio. Despite her demanding schedule, Escudero-Tamayo carves out time for the canvas, proving that artistry can thrive even amid life’s many roles.
The artistic awakening
“Marami ang hindi nakakaalam na visual artist ako (Many people don’t know that I’m a visual artist),” Escudero-Tamayo shared with a warm laugh. “The curiosity started early. At a young age, I already knew I enjoyed doodling and going to museums.”
Her love for the arts deepened when she encountered a painting by Mauro “Malang” Santos. “It was colorful and beautiful. Then I saw Claude Monet’s works in a magazine — soft, dreamy, and full of life. That’s when I started researching more about him and other artists.” These early visual experiences planted the seeds that would later blossom into her distinct painting style.
The impasto impression
Under the mentorship of noted Filipino artists Crisel Malait and Rene Cuvos, Escudero-Tamayo developed a signature style that favors impasto — a technique that emphasizes texture through thick, expressive layers of paint. Whether working in oil or acrylic, her canvases come alive with bold colors and rich textures.
Her favorite subjects include Mother and Child, trees, flowers, and natural landscapes. “I love painting Mother and Child because it captures one of the purest forms of love and connection. It’s a bond I’m always drawn to express.”
She added, “Nature — whether trees, flowers, or landscapes — gives me peace. Through these subjects, I find calm, inspiration, and a sense of connection to the world around me.”
The unintended spotlight
What began as a private hobby and creative outlet has become a celebrated part of Escudero-Tamayo’s identity. “This started as a stress reliever. I never intended to highlight it,” she admitted.
But fate had other plans. A friend from Rotary invited her to join the United Women Artists Association, led by president Menchu Arandilla and Zharine Carbonell of the Shaped Women Organization. “Zharine has been including me in these fabulous art exhibits. I must be doing something right for people to notice — and for that, I’m grateful.”
Letting go to let in
Despite the joy of creation, letting go of her artworks is never easy. “Yes, most of the time it’s hard because you spend hours making them. But I remind myself — I have to let go for new ideas to come.”
Whether born out of joy or painted in solitude, Escudero-Tamayo never waits for the perfect emotional state to create. “When I feel the urge to paint, I go for it. Whether I’m sad or happy, the emotion comes out in the artwork.”
A voice for fellow artists
To her fellow artists — especially those quietly working in the margins — Escudero-Tamayo offers this message: “Keep on creating and expressing. Even when the world feels upside down or confusing, your art matters. There will be days of self-doubt, when inspiration feels distant or your work goes unnoticed — but growth doesn’t always look loud. Sometimes it’s quiet, slow, and behind the scenes. Keep going anyway.
“Art has the power to uplift spirits, move hearts, and challenge minds. Stay true to your vision, trust the process, and never stop striving. The world needs what only you can create.”
On exhibit
This month, Escudero-Tamayo joins a distinguished ensemble of artists in a group exhibit at Nami Art Gallery in White Plains, Quezon City. Running from 19 to 31 July, the exhibit will feature works by celebrated visual artists, including Jeff Dahilan, Mari Zhar La Gemina, Jes Luna, Pam Diel, Girl Lee, Marko Bello, Cris Manalo, Dwight de Leon, Angelo Roxas, Julius Legaspi, Maldita Magsaysay and Cas Lib. Guest masters, such as Anthony Palomo, Lydia Velasco, Dr. Renato Cheng, Raul Isidro, and Fernando Sena, will also grace the show.
As the world rediscovers Escudero-Tamayo through her art, one thing is certain — her journey proves that beauty, in all its forms, never fades. It evolves, deepens, and — like paint on canvas — leaves an indelible mark.
