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Susan Villanueva-de Guzman is a painter, muralist, and art/design educator currently based in the UAE. Her artistic journey began at the University of Santo Tomas, where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting. She later completed her Master of Education in Online and Distance Learning from the University of Southern Queensland, Australia and is currently completing her PhD in Educational Management.

With more than three decades of experience, Susan has taught, mentored, and shaped future artists across the Higher Colleges of Technology system and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. Her work spans fine arts, graphic design technology, curriculum development, and large-scale murals, both for art and design.

As an artist, Susan’s practice explores culture, identity, and movement, and often reflected in her expressive brushwork and vibrant mural compositions.

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“My art captures movement, stories, and the emotional rhythm of cultural identity. Each piece is an exploration of heritage, reflection, and the unspoken narratives of community.”

Susan Villanueva-de Guzman

A woman sitting on a rocky ledge drawing or writing in a notebook, with a vast canyon of layered mountains in the background.

View from Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE

  • “I believe excellence comes from empowering learners through creativity, discipline, and hands-on exploration. My work in education centers on building confidence, skill, and purpose.”

    Susan de Guzman

Awards & Recognitions

    • Artist of the Year, The Filipino Times — 2016

    • Featured Artist, Negosyo Expo “Shukran Baba Zayed” — 2018

    • Featured Artist, “Inspirational Women, Art Couture” — 2015

    • Movement Series published and recognized internationally

    • Pintados – Solo Exhibition Special Recognition (Philippine Consulate Dubai) — 2017

    • World Art Dubai — 2025 (Exhibitor recognition)

    • HERE Exhibition — 2023

    • UAE 50th Faculty Exhibition — 2021

    • Virtual Exhibition “Untitled Reasons” — 2020

    • Solo & Group Shows across UAE, Philippines, USA (1982–2025), many of which were “featured artist” invitations.

    • Excellence in Inspiring Innovation & Creativity — 2016

    • Excellence in Extra Curricular Activity — 2014, 2015

    • EmiratesSkills Distinguished Contribution Awards : 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016

    • Learning by Doing Award (Community-Based Project) — 2013

    • Director’s Award for Excellence, Commitment & Service — 2007, 2008

    • Innovation Champion — 2016, 2017

    • Teacher with a Cause — 2015, 2016, 2017

    • Outstanding Contribution, Deputy Chief Expert — WorldSkills Leipzig 2013

    • Outstanding Contribution, Expert — WorldSkills Brazil 2015

    • Outstanding Contribution, Expert — WorldSkills Kazan 2019

    • Chief Expert appointments, 2007–2016

    • Deputy Chief Expert appointments for GCCSkills and WorldSkills

    • Certificate of Recognition for Scholarly Activities — 2019

    • Nominated: Outstanding International Alumni, University of Southern Queensland — 2013

    • Blackboard Academy Certifications (Expert, Practitioner, Associate)

    • TESDA Graphic Design NCII Certification

    • Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf

      • 2015 (Top 100)

      • 2016 (Top 100)

      • 2017 (Top 100)

      • 2018 (Top 100)

      • 2020 (Top 300)

    • Women of Substance Honoree, Illustrado Magazine — 2011

    • Community Service Award (Sharjah Women’s College)

    • Featured Artist for Filipino diplomatic & cultural events (Philippine Independence Day, community celebrations)

    • “From Canvas to Community: The Power of Art in Filipino Women’s Empowerment” — FILSOC Club

    • Philippine Literature Month participation (2024)

    • AKLAT Initiative at Mohammed bin Rashid Library

    • Abu Dhabi Sports TV Interview — 2019

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