Born in Marawi City and descended from a Maranaw royal lineage, Tomas Concepcion left for the United States in his teens to study painting and theater design. After stints in Canada and in different countries in Europe, he finally settled in Rome where he set up a thriving studio.
He became a much sought-after portrait painter for the nobility and the intellectuals.
Concepcion is known for his eloquent bronzes where he said is a skill influenced by his proud Maranaw roots, who were the only people in the Philippines known for casting bronzes.
His remarkable bronze sculptures include Pope John Paul II in Guam and Mexico and that of Ninoy Aquino on Edsa, his pieces are also found in various private collections all over the world.
His exhibition in Italy, which is presented by Salida Filipina--an online independent filmmaker's portal--and the Italian Embassy, is entitled "A Homage to Michelangelo."
Concepcion will be presenting large-scale paintings, prints and bronzes which was influenced by the 15th Century Renaissance artist whom Concepcion considers as his "mentor."
Aside from the NCCC mall exhibit, Concepcion is also conducting an art lecture at the Philippine Women's College of Davao College of Fine Arts on July 17.
He is also conducting a signature drive for the release of kidnapped Italian priest Fr. Giancarlo Bossi.
From Rome, Concepcion has brought with him his unfinished portrait of the abducted priest which back in Italy has become a symbol of that country's anti-terror effort.
