Juanita Badillo Guzman Farrens met her husband behind enemy lines in her native Philippines during World War II and they married before the end of the war. She came to the U.S. to begin a new life, and the family settled in Lakeview in New Orleans. A devout Catholic, she became active in her parish church as a member of the choir and host of the weekly prayer group.

Farrens' talent as an artist emerged in the early 1950s when she was given a paint set. Over the next five decades, she studied throughout the U.S. and abroad. Her sculptures and paintings in all mediums won numerous awards. She was also accomplished in wood burning and stained glass. She became a renowned artist and instructor throughout New Orleans. At age 76, Farrens put on a welder's mask and immersed herself in the study of welding. There began her love of sculpting in bronze, aluminum, and cast iron. She was commissioned to create a four-figure, life size depiction of The Crucifixion for a private chapel in Minnesota. Her passion as an artist was driven by her love and devotion to God.