Celia Diaz-Laurel to launch first book of planned trilogy on June 18

Actress, artist and writer Celia Diaz-Laurel has done a lot in her 86 years. On June 18, she will launch "The Colors of My Life: Celia Diaz Laurel – Painter," a book that will detail some of her achievements in the field of art.

In the first five chapters of the book, Laurel recounts her childhood: from growing up in Talisay, Negros Occidental to her moving to Manila for high school at Assumption Convent and then college at the University of the Philippines' College of Fine Arts on Padre Faura and at UP Diliman.

The chapters will also deal with Salvador Laurel, Jr. and his courtship of her, as well as her studies under Filipino masters Fernando Amorsolo and Guillermo Tolentino.

The second part of the book details Laurel's evolution as an artist, creating works featuring family members as well as people who inspired her, from Fr. James B. Reuter to Mother Teresa.

The book will be launched by the UP College of Fine Arts Alumni Foundation Inc. The guest speaker at the launch will be UP president Alfredo Pascual.

"The Colors of My Life: Celia Diaz Laurel – Painter" is the first of three books Laurel has planned. The second will focus on her work in the theater as actress and production designer. — BM, GMA News

The launch of "The Colors of My Life: Celia Diaz Laurel – Painter" will be held on June 18 at the Executive House, Maramag St. corner Tavera St., Area 14, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City.

For book reservations and inquiries, contact Corito Melotindos at 869-7298 and 478-0575.