Dubai-based artist Elton Cosinero Lipanta. SUPPLIED

For many, art is a hobby, but for Elton Cosiñero Lipanta, it has always been a calling. From his humble beginnings in Claveria, Misamis Oriental in the Philippines, to becoming a creative force in Dubai's art scene, Elton’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and a little serendipity. In an exclusive interview with Expat Media, the 44-year-old Filipino artist shares his story of turning hand-painted bags into works of art cherished by Filipino stars visiting the UAE. “I’ve been drawing since nursery,” Elton recalls with a chuckle. “I remember charging my classmates a peso for drawings back in school. I even filled a shampoo bottle with coins I earned!” This early entrepreneurial spirit and his love for art set the foundation for his future endeavors. Growing up in a modest household, Elton was the eldest of several siblings. His father, a banker, and his mother, a homemaker, instilled in him the value of hard work. A double scholar at Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan, Elton pursued a technical course, never burdening his family with education costs. In 2014, what began as a short vacation to visit his brother in Dubai turned into a life-changing adventure. Now, as a receptionist by day and an artist by passion, Elton has embraced the multicultural vibrancy of Dubai, calling it his second home.

From murals to hand-painted masterpieces

Elton’s journey as a bag artist began almost accidentally at a friend's birthday party. Tasked with sprucing up a plain gift box, he painted a design that garnered admiration and trust. “The first original Louis Vuitton bag I painted was for my friend,” Elton recalls. “It was nerve-wracking, but I knew I had to start somewhere.” Then came his big break: painting a bag for Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach. “I found out she was attending an event at Dragon Mart, and I couldn’t pass up the chance,” he says. Elton remembers waving the bag high in the air to catch the attention of Miss Universe staff. “When Esther Swan, her manager, saw it, she told security to let me in. The rest was history!” The bag made it to the Miss Universe’s Instagram story, giving Elton his first brush with celebrity recognition. Since then, he’s created custom designs for Filipino stars like Kim Chiu, Lovi Poe, Anne Curtis, Catriona Gray, and Sarah Geronimo. He has also worked with Dubai-based fashion designer Michael Cinco. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted, inspired by the personality and passions of the recipient. “For Anne Curtis, I painted Audrey Hepburn’s face with her favorite quote. For Megan Young, I included her cat and her mother’s favorite saying, ‘You can never go wrong with kindness.’” Elton credits Dubai for nurturing his creativity. “This city brings together artists from all over the world,” he says. Exhibitions like World Art Dubai have exposed him to diverse styles and stories. He also finds inspiration in everyday experiences—long bus rides, walks under Dubai’s blue skies, or even a good plate of odong with sardines. But Elton’s talent doesn’t stop at painting. Dubai has also unlocked his hidden skill as an emcee, surprising many who know him only for his art. “They think I’ve done it before, but hosting is something I discovered here,” he admits.

More than just fan art

For Elton, his creations are acts of appreciation and inspiration. “When I give my work to celebrities, it’s my way of saying thank you for inspiring us,” he explains. One standout moment was when Gazini Ganados, Miss Universe Philippines 2019, used his hand-painted bag at high-profile events like the Preview Ball. “It’s surreal to think my art is traveling to places I’ve never been,” he says. Elton’s philosophy is simple: pour your heart into every piece. “My art isn’t just about the paint or the bag—it’s about my struggles, triumphs, and everything in between.” Elton dreams of expanding his reach beyond the Filipino community. “From the Philippines to the world,” he envisions collaborating with international celebrities while continuing to celebrate Filipino talent. Whether hosting events or creating art, Elton’s mantra remains the same: “I am not limited; I am unlimited!”

10 rapid-fire questions with Elton Lipanta

Celebrity dream client. Angelina Jolie—She’s made such an impact on the world! Most unusual canvas. A bag with grooved surfaces—it was a challenge, but I did it! Creative playlist. Instrumental feel-good music—lyrics distract me. Tea or coffee? Tea—it keeps me calm. Favorite Filipino dish. Odong with sardines—reminds me of family meals. Artistic style in three words. Fun, unique, celebration. Inspiration spot in Dubai. Al Seef—the perfect mix of old and new Dubai. Actor to play you in a movie. John Lloyd Cruz. Ha! Ha! Ha! Oddest client request. Paint a bag overnight with a complex design—it was wild! Your life motto What my mind conceives, I can achieve. ALSO READ: Pia Wurtzbach takes on the Expat Media Challenge PIA/Expat Media
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