Creativity and education comes together in full bloom this Passion Wednesday as Dr. Baldomero F. Defensor, Jr., fondly known as “Doc Bhadz,” unveils Flowrish: A One Stroke Floral Art Exhibit.
With over 25 years of experience as an educator, choreographer, and cultural leader, Doc Bhadz has always believed in nurturing not only academic skills but also the holistic development of students.
Flowrish is a vibrant celebration of growth, resilience, and transformation, principles that Doc Bhadz has long championed both as an artist and as an educator in the arts.
Through this exhibit, he demonstrates how the arts can foster creativity, self reflection, and personal growth, core values that form the foundation of meaningful education.
“Bloom where you are planted,” he shared, reflecting on life’s challenges and the lessons learned through both breakdowns and breakthroughs.
During the exhibit, Doc Bhadz explained how the one stroke painting technique allowed him to explore self expression, mental wellness, and perseverance.
His floating floral compositions, vibrant blooms set against deep black backgrounds, embody spontaneity, precision, and the effortless grace of nature.
They symbolize growth, transformation, and hope, qualities that resonate strongly with his educational philosophy.
As Principal of the Basic Education Unit, Doc Bhadz believes that creativity unlocks the deepest corners of the mind and heart, allowing individuals to explore experiences, emotions, and perspectives while communicating beauty and resilience.
“Art allows us to explore new ways, not only in light but also in shadows,” he said, emphasizing the importance of reflection and emotional intelligence in learning.
The pandemic was a catalyst for Doc Bhadz’s artistic exploration.
Immersed in quarantine, he discovered new ways to express ideas and emotions through one stroke floral painting, demonstrating that creativity often thrives within limitations.
He shared the philosophy that has guided both his art and teaching: “Not thinking outside the box, but instead, what can I do with the box?”
Through this mindset, challenges become opportunities for growth, innovation, and learning.
With Flowrish, Doc Bhadz exemplifies how the practice of visual arts can enrich education, showing that learning is most meaningful when it engages the mind, nurtures the heart, and encourages every student to flourish, even in the face of uncertainty.
His exhibit is a reminder that the lessons of art and education are intertwined: both cultivate resilience, imagination, and the courage to grow where one is planted.