Ycoy Sitchon and the blooming flower garden in her soul
I was told by a psychic once that in my past life, I was a Russian writer who had a penchant for painting flowers. That was years ago, and I remember I was so amazed because at that time, I was mesmerized by Tolstoy’s War and Peace, and was in love with paintings depicting flowers. Of course, since then, with more exposure and experience in life, my tastes have expanded, not changed, just included so much more. But this attraction to paintings of blooms remains.
When I saw Marinella “Ycoy” Sitchon’s beautiful artworks of flowers, it rekindled my appreciation. I have met Ycoy in my previous hotel life. She headed an events company, La Belle Fete where she is still creative director, that organized stunning weddings and other occasions. Back then, I already noticed her feminine and artistic touch, which was seen and even felt in these events. In 2024, she embarked on the visual arts and mounted three solo exhibits and an installation at the Modern and Contemporary Art Festival. Her recurring subject is always flowers. Ycoy declares, “Flowers have long been woven into the fabric of my life, serving as both muse and metaphor. From painting blossoms in my grandmother’s garden as a child to weaving floral elegance into grand events, I’ve cultivated a profound reverence for their beauty and symbolism. Each petal, fragile yet resilient, mirrors my own evolution as an artist and woman, unfolding with grace and purpose. In their delicate strength, I see reflections of femininity and the quiet power that defines womanhood. Whether working with them or adorning my home or inspiring my canvas, flowers resonate with my soul’s blooming process.”
After graduating from the University of the Philippines with a degree in Economics, Ycoy found herself navigating the worlds of international advertising and banking. "My experience as a government securities trader and investment banker helped shape my leadership skills, which I eventually brought to La Belle Fete. With the support of a talented team, the company gradually gained recognition as one of the leading event companies in the Philippines."
“My creative journey, however, didn’t stop there,” she says. “Driven by a quiet determination to embrace my true self, I rekindled my childhood passion for painting after establishing La Belle Fete and its sister ventures, including La Belle Fete New York. What began as a personal pursuit soon blossomed into something greater, leading to three solo exhibitions in my first year as a professional artist. I consider this not only a fulfillment of a long-held dream but also a reminder that it’s never too late to chase one’s passions.”
After welcoming her second child in 2017, she transitioned into a more supportive role at La Belle Fete, where her husband and business partner Jeff and highly skilled event managers now manage the company. This allowed Ycoy to focus on her love for art and design. “My work as an event planner honed my artistic skills, from curating intricate designs to crafting immersive experiences. Along the way, my passion for flowers deepened as I worked closely with them, familiarizing myself with different varieties and admiring their beauty. While I remain deeply involved in the creative process, I have found balance in embracing motherhood and pursuing my lifelong dream as a painter. This shift has given me the freedom to explore my artistic expression while still shaping the aesthetic direction of La Belle Fete. With Jeff’s expertise in operations and my artistic vision, we continue to create extraordinary experiences for our clients.”
Speaking of her first exhibit, Floral Reverie in Galerie Joaquin in 2024, Ycoy feels that it “marked the genesis of my artistic journey. It was here that I unveiled my signature style—a harmonious fusion of abstraction and representation—that invites a dialogue between the viewer and the canvas.” Her second exhibit, The Tales of These Petals, at the Secret Fresh Gallery in RONAC Art Center, was a continuation of her journey. Her floral artworks were a heartfelt tribute to the strength and resilience of women.
Ycoy’s most recent exhibit, at the Modern and Contemporary Art Festival, was titled In The Vale of Blooms, which she says “seamlessly fused my visual artistry with the world of events. By blending painting with curated set design, graphics, and cutting-edge technology, I crafted an immersive, experiential installation that pushed creative boundaries. Collaborating with luminaries from the events industry and an internationally acclaimed composer, I brought my vision to life, delivering a multi-sensory journey—a vivid tableau that captivated the senses and showcased the depth of my artistry.”
Ycoy’s current solo exhibition is Floriensoul at Galerie Joaquin Rockwell. The title, which means “the spirit of blooming,” perfectly captures her transformation as an artist. In this collection, she fused abstract and realist expression, using a curated palette that ranges from delicate pastels to bold, dark tones. “I incorporated mixed-media techniques, such as manipulating textures with clays and pastes, allowing my floral arrangements to seemingly bloom from the canvas. These techniques reflect my dedication to pushing the boundaries of my craft while staying true to my signature style.” To add another dimension to her artwork is a collaboration with Suki Jewelry, a Manila-based contemporary fine jewelry brand. Ycoy states that this collab “further elevates the exhibition. Sharing my brand and design ethos, we curated a seven-piece collection inspired by the blooms in my canvas, reflecting both our aesthetics. Suki’s gold and floral-themed artisan pieces beautifully complemented my painted florals, adding an element of luxury and elegance. The seamless integration of fine art and jewelry aims to enhance the overall experience for viewers. Floriensoul is not just a visual transformation but a reflection of my artistic evolution.”
Furthermore, the artist believes that Floriensoul "marks a pivotal moment in my creative journey as I explore my evolving artistic identity."
And like a metaphor for a flower garden, Ycoy’s artistry continues to bloom.
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Floriensoul by Ycoy Sitchon will be on view at Galerie Joaquin Rockwell from March 30 to April 8. Galerie Joaquin Rockwell is located at the R3 Level of Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati. For inquiries, contact 09154145502 or email galeriejoaquin@gmail.com.
