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By Marissa Dilmeang Spires
Jomil Garcia, a self-taught artist from Palau, has turned her love of art into a thriving entrepreneurial business. Through her Instagram account @pw.artsthetics, she promotes her designs on stickers, t-shirts, tote bags, and phone cases. Garcia also accepts art requests and commissions, including a mural for a VIP guest hotel and a logo for OneReef Worldwide Stewardship’s Youth Forum.
One notable commission came from Sandra Pierantozzi, who has mentored Garcia in life and business. Garcia’s artistic journey began in 2019 when she entered various art competitions. In 2020, she was named the overall winner of the Palau International Coral Reef Center’s 2021 Art & Tides Calendar, a milestone that boosted her confidence and opened up new opportunities.
Garcia works in a variety of mediums, including drawing, acrylic painting, and digital art using an iPad. Her online presence has garnered a lot of positive attention, helping her build her reputation. Garcia’s love for Palauan culture and stickers inspired her to create shareable art that reflects her heritage.
Garcia credits her mother, Sunshine Garcia-Ngirmidol, and her aunt, Vivien Ngirarsaol-Protine, for their unwavering support. Vivien, an entrepreneur and youth advocate, provided Garcia with valuable experience and networking opportunities. After graduating from high school, Garcia took a gap year to volunteer and gain insights into various fields before deciding on a career path.
She has worked with organizations such as the Palau Chamber of Commerce, AD HOC Art Center, and the Palau Red Cross. Her experience with the Chamber of Commerce strengthened her business acumen, while her experience with the Red Cross helped her develop independence and responsibility. As secretary for the AD HOC Art Center, Garcia assisted in many art classes and embraced the center’s mission to express the essence of art.
Garcia’s two main sources of inspiration are full-time artist Tati Tikhanina and local Palauan artist Elsei Tellei, founder of Tiuladokow Artwork. Garcia admired Tellei’s work and dreamed of collaborating with her. This dream came true when they worked together as stall owners at the 680 Night Market. Tellei has since become Garcia’s mentor, providing guidance and support.
Despite challenges like self-doubt and criticism, Garcia persevered. Her mentors advised her to view criticism as a learning opportunity rather than a frustration. “There will always be people who disagree with you or don’t support your work, but that should be a motivation,” Garcia said.
Garcia is grateful for the support she has received from the community and encourages other young people to pursue their dreams. “There are so many opportunities, especially for young people. It’s scary, but with the right guidance, you can succeed,” she said.
Looking to the future, Garcia hopes to expand her audience and continue doing what she loves.
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