Biography

John Mark Libarnes: A Story of Self-Made Creativity

Born in Surigao, Philippines, John Mark A. Libarnes isn't your typical artist. He's a self-taught multimedia wizard, cinematographer, and film editor who built his career from the ground up, proving that passion and persistence can take you further than any formal degree.

Initially, John Mark started down a very different path, studying Electronics and Communications Engineering at USC-TC. But his heart clearly belonged to design. Driven by an insatiable curiosity, he dove headfirst into graphic and web design, teaching himself everything he needed to know through online resources. This "learn-it-yourself" spirit became a defining characteristic of his journey, allowing him to beautifully merge his technical mind with his artistic vision.

His creative world quickly expanded beyond just design. He picked up photography, videography, and even film editing, mastering each new skill. His short film, GASA (2013), starring Vincent Wyze Samson, really put his cinematographic talent on display, earning praise for its visual storytelling and narrative depth.

John Mark's impactful work hasn't gone unnoticed. He's been featured on platforms like ANCX Abs-cbn, sharing insights not just on his artistic process but even on topics like Siargao's property market. His ability to seamlessly move between graphic design, film, and digital media has made him a true inspiration in the Philippine creative scene, showing others that there's no single "right" way to become an artist.

At his core, John Mark believes in the power of continuous learning. His story is a powerful testament to the idea that true artistic excellence comes from unwavering passion and sheer determination, proving that self-directed education and digital tools are democratizing the art world for everyone.

by : P.S.L