Antonio Blanco

Philippines

1912 – 1999

Antonio Blanco was a flamboyant artist born in Manila to Spanish parents. After studying in New York and extensive travels, including Hawaii, Japan, and Cambodia, he found his artistic haven in Bali in 1952. The King of Ubud gifted him land, where he built his home and museum, immersing himself in the local culture and marrying renowned Balinese dancer, Ni Ronji.

Blancos paintings primarily focused on women, characterized by a romantic-expressive and dreamy style. His art was deeply influenced by Balis scenic beauty and rich artistic culture. He received numerous accolades, including the Tiffany Fellowship, Chevalier du Sahametrai of Cambodia, and the Order of Cruz de Caballero from King Juan Carlos I of Spain. His collectors included Ingrid Bergman, President Sukarno, and Michael Jackson.

The Blanco Renaissance Museum opened in 1998 at his residence in Ubud, showcasing over 300 of his works and reflecting his theatrical personality, often compared to Salvador Dalí. Blanco passed away in Denpasar, Bali, in 1999, and received a traditional Balinese cremation.