Artist Bio

John DeCastro or Jonji, is a Filipino-American visual artist and instructor originally from Upland, CA and based in Los Angeles, CA. He works in a variety of large scaled papers, paintings, drawings, and sculpting. His work is influenced by the queer Filipino-American experience. John explores indigenous or aboriginal art, modern to contemporary Filipino arts and sociopolitical subjects such as queerness or POC ecological and social struggles. He incorporates techniques like embroidery, paper-making, and recycled collaged paper. Manila Paper, cardboard, construction paper, or handmade recycled paper are some of the materials that speak to the meaning of his art, as it further represents his Filipino-American heritage and intends to decolonize western academic traditions in the arts. His works are known for being playful, bright, or pastel and open dialogue for individuals who experience otherness in society. ​
John opens access to his work through public art in the Los Angeles County region. Community centers such as Center for the Arts Eagle Rock, and Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA), and The Sunday Jump: Open Mic Series have featured and honored his work. He's the first graduating student to exhibit a public series showcase featuring him and his colleagues work, at Glendale Community College, CA. John is currently a studio apprentice to Los Angeles renowned contemporary artist April Bey.
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​John is related to national Filipino painter, Federico Aguilar Alcuaz.
CONTACT
Pronouns: He / Him
Email: johndecastro.art@gmail.com
Instagram: @Decastronaut
Tiktok: @Decastronaut

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