Rose was born in the Philippines and enjoyed an idyllic childhood full of the rich textures and vibrant culture of that country, but due to political conflict and upheaval, she was forced to leave with little more than a small carry on bag. Arriving in the United States at age 12, she tried to forget the life she left behind to assimilate and discourage discrimination and build a new one. She studied art and received a degree in Fine Arts and Art History. She worked in advertising and fashion, brought up 2 kids and started her own company, but her mind continuously returns to the world she left a long time ago.

She is now a full time artist, with a studio in New York. Her newest and involving collection titled ‘Interwoven States’ is an exploration and celebration of those memories. She combines her love of abstract art with her memories of the rituals, colors, creativity, people and language of her country and with the tradition of basket weaving (which she learned in the Philippines). She reveals these memories and emotions and also covers them up with intricate overlay. She called the work 'Interwoven States' because of her personal journey and the tension between revealing and disguising her true self. 

"Interwoven States" is a study of the tension between memory and dislocation. She represents this tension between what is revealed and what remains hidden. Abstract flowers, forms and her distinct palette of colors are the core vehicles of her works, layered with an intricate weave that echoes her memory of traditional basket weaving techniques and patterns in the Philippines. The weaving serves to bind her subjects in a bond that is both embracing yet restrictive.

These three artworks symbolically recall the women who taught Rose the art of basketry, including her mother. Shared during lengthy weaving sessions are their stories and lamentations about love and courtship, hopes and insecurities, family conflicts and struggles as well as their role in a household grounded by traditional colonial values and where power is held by men. While learning to weave, Rose heard and absorbed them all and is now remembering and celebrating their lives and stories in her art.