Elito “Lito” Ballesteros is an acclaimed and well-loved Filipino painter and one of the founders of the New York-based Society of Philippine-American Artists (SPAA). He participated in group shows such as “Suntok sa Buwan” in 1994, “Salamin ng Kagitingan” in 1998, both at the Philippine Center. He held several solo exhibits of his paintings in New york, New Jersey, and Washington D.C. He was a popular artist in Middletown, NY where he lived and owned an art gallery.
Born on Nov. 24, 1940, Lito Ballesteros grew up with the world-famous Filipino painter Fernando Amorsolo in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, Philippines. He served in the Vietnam War (1962-1969) and was a retired U.S Navy personnel. He was also an active member of Mason, Gramercy Lodge No. 537.
Mr. Ballesteros used a wide array of colors to convey a positive message thru his works. Not to shy from a bright palette, he sees color where another may see only muted tones.
He died June 2009 in Middletown, NY.
