"When asked why she traded certainty for art, The Hermit answers in peace, 'Why not? Art found me, waited for me, and left me with no other path.'"
Embedded Files
About The Hermit Art
A native of the Philippines, The Hermit immigrated to the United States in 2007, becoming the first Filipino American in her family to build a life abroad.
The Hermit Art's path has been shaped by nearly two decades of public service—beginning in the U.S. Navy, continuing through humanitarian work with the U.S. Agency for International Development, and later leading to diplomatic service with the U.S. Department of State at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, Iraq.
Along the way, she earned a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice and built a career grounded in structure, policy, and complex systems—worlds seemingly far removed from the creative practice she quietly nurtured within herself.
Art has always been present, but often interrupted by duty, relocation, and responsibility.
"Work got in the way of Art". - The Hermit
In 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, that quiet pull toward creativity became impossible to ignore.
She chose to pursue art more intentionally through painting, stepping into tattooing through apprenticeship, and laying the foundation for her independent studio, The Hermit Art—where creativity became something lived, worn, and permanent.
In 2022, her creative journey was interrupted once again by deployment to Iraq. Yet amid an environment shaped by conflict and uncertainty, creativity continued to flourish through discreet tattoo work, painting, and participation in art exhibitions within the embassy community.
The austere setting deepened her appreciation for art as a source of connection, resilience, and self-expression—inspiring both her own work and the stories of those around her. Post deployment, she settled in Southern California and stepped more fully into her artistic path, embracing a life grounded in both service and creation.
The works of The Hermit Art are shaped by lived experience, reflecting a creative process that could not be rushed or separated from life itself. Each piece carries the layers of personal journey, transformation, and resilience. At its core is the belief that art—and the gifts and talents we are given—are meant to be shared.
Visit Instagram for latest artworks @The_Hermit_Art
40555 California Oaks Road, Suite 134, Murrieta, CA 92562
By Appointments Only.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse