Claire Jaun-Torres, an abstract expressionist artist, recently unveiled her 8th solo exhibition titled “Provoking Summer” or “Kalgaw,” drawing inspiration from the Iloko word for summer. Held at The Gallery by Witchcraft, this exhibit was a celebration of her vibrant artistic journey, enriched by her heritage from Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, and her life in Switzerland.
“Kalgaw” launched on September 7 reflects the extreme heat, drought, and festive atmosphere of Ilocano summers. Claire’s abstract works showcase the warmth of this season through rich hues of orange, red, and yellow, invoking nostalgia for the harvests and fiestas of her youth. Her painting “Warmth of a Kiss” echoes the passion of Klimt’s famous work but is unmistakably Claire’s own. “The Rise” captures the interplay of light and nature in Switzerland, while “Attraction” plays with reds and greens to explore the pull of love. “Tenderness” presents a vivid battle of colors, combining gold, red, and blue to reflect moments of peace after conflict — a theme drawn from Ilocano culture.
The exhibit was graced by notable guests, including Atty. Sonny Boy Sanidad Jr., who Claire thanked for “another wonderful introduction” to her exhibit. She also expressed her gratitude to Jackson and Cristina So for opening the doors of The Gallery and to her esteemed guests and friends, Mayor Atty. Pablito Sanidad Sr., NBI Asst. Director First Lady Atty. Janet Francisco, Baguio City Budget Officer Atty. Leticia Clemente, Maricar Docyogen and the Pasa-Kalye Group, Venus Tan, 96.7 Radio Station’s Letlet Dela Cruz, and members of the Baguio media, saying, “Thank you for sharing your support.”
Claire’s 8th exhibit showcases her distinctive bold strokes and expressive use of color, a style that continues to garner praise within the art community. Her works have even found their way onto Witchcraft’s limited-edition single malt whisky bottles — a harmonious pairing of two of her passions, whisky and art.
Claire’s artistic roots run deep. Born in Barangay Nagsayaoan, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, to Simon and Olivia Torres, she attended San Pedro Elementary School and Ilocos Central Academy before embarking on her professional journey. After working at the Court of First Instance in Narvacan and the National Irrigation Administration in Sta. Maria, her life took a global turn when she married the late Engineer Heinz Jaun of Switzerland. Together, they navigated life across continents, melding the rich traditions of Ilocos Sur with the cultural sophistication of Europe.
Upon returning to the Philippines, Claire made Baguio City her home, where her art truly blossomed. Her membership in the Pasa-Kalye Group of Artists in 2022 marked a pivotal moment in her career, leading to her debut exhibit. Today, her artwork graces galleries and hotels in Baguio, Clark, and Metro Manila, each piece narrating her life’s journey, from her Ilocano heritage to the alpine beauty of Switzerland.
