Photo credit: China Tolentino

When you think of the life of an artist, you might imagine long days fueled by passion, creativity, and purpose. But what happens when the art gets sold, delivered, even displayed—and the artist still doesn’t get paid?

Visual artist China Tolentino recently took to social media to air her frustration over a delayed payment that’s been dragging on for nine months since her exhibit ended. And she didn’t hold back.

“A lot of patience—I really gave it my all just waiting for the payment from my sold artworks,” she wrote. “It’s been 9 months since the exhibit ended, yet I haven’t received a single cent.”

What stings more? She’s seen her artwork already hanging in the buyer’s home, proof that the transaction was completed—except for the part where she gets paid.

“Why should I be the one left waiting?” she asked. “This is my work, my time, and my passion. Artists deserve to be treated with respect and fairness.”

And she’s not asking for more time. She’s asking for what’s long overdue: “I need it this week, not next week or any other month. Pakisama niyo na ’yung Xavier piece na sold na rin.”

China’s not alone.

On Threads, Leeahjoo, another artist, opened up about a painful experience with Art Anton during the Manila Bang Art Fair in November 2024. According to her, she’s still owed $13,000 for sold artworks—and has five more pieces that are still sitting in the gallery.

“I thought I did my homework prior to sending work, I am completely at a loss,” she shared. “What can I do and how do I claim back remaining work? I am in the works contacting lawyers in the Philippines.”

Her post wasn’t just a cry for help—it was also a warning to other artists: “Please share anything helpful. And warning to any artists considering future opportunities there.”

These stories are a stark reminder that being an artist doesn’t just mean creating—it also means fighting to be treated as professionals. And right now, China and Leeahjoo are making sure their voices—and their value—are heard.