Conversations with Creativity: Exploring the Artistic World of IJWBAA
In a world painted with vibrant colours and diverse landscapes, I found myself in a lively conversation with the talented artist IJWBAA through ZOOM. Sitting comfortably, coffees in hand, we began the chat with an enthusiastic greeting, setting the stage for an exploration into IJWBAA’s life and creative journey.
Hi IJWBAA! It’s great to have you here. Let’s kick things off by diving into your background. You were born in Manila and now live in Pangasinan – how have your Filipino roots influenced your art?
Hey Lisa! Thanks for having me. Growing up in the Philippines has really shaped the way I see things and express myself artistically. The vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and the warmth of the people – those elements play a big role in inspiring my work. There’s a certain energy and colour that I carry from my roots, and I try to infuse that into my art.
Love that! Your recent solo exhibitions, especially the VR ones like ‘Breaking Boundaries,’ are quite innovative. What led you to explore virtual reality for your exhibitions?
Great question! Virtual reality, for me, is like this unique canvas that transcends physical boundaries. It lets the audience step into a different dimension. I find it fascinating how technology can enhance the art-viewing experience. It’s a way for me to experiment with new forms, engage with a global audience, and challenge the norms of traditional exhibitions.
That’s incredible! Your presence is truly global, with exhibitions in places like Leeds and Firenze. How do different cultural contexts influence your creative process and the themes you explore?
Absolutely! Traveling and showcasing my art in different cultural contexts have been incredible experiences. Each place brings its own set of perspectives and challenges, which really fuel my creativity. It’s like this ongoing exchange of ideas and emotions, and I try to incorporate those influences into my work. It’s my way of contributing to a global conversation through art.
And you’re doing it so well! Moving on to your awards, being a finalist in ArtsFighters and securing 2nd place in World Children’s Day is impressive. How do these accolades impact your artistic approach and confidence?
Oh, those were unexpected and humbling moments for sure. Winning awards is like a validation of the hard work and passion I put into my art. It boosts my confidence and pushes me to keep exploring and experimenting. At the same time, it’s a responsibility to maintain a standard and keep evolving as an artist.
Your journey has been covered in interviews, magazines, and even books. How do you think this media exposure has shaped your career and the perception of your art?
Media exposure is crucial in today’s interconnected world. It’s not just about sharing my story but introducing my art to a wider audience. It’s a way for me to connect with people who might resonate with my work. The diversity of publications and interviews reflects the many facets of my artistic journey.
Congratulations on having the National Library of the Philippines acquire copies of your books on Feb 14, 2024! How do you feel about this significant milestone in your career?
Thank you so much! It’s truly an honor and a surreal feeling to have the National Library of the Philippines recognise and acquire my books for their collection. This milestone marks a significant moment in my career, as it validates the impact and importance of my work in the art world. Knowing that my books will be preserved and accessible to future generations of readers is incredibly humbling and fulfilling. It inspires me to continue and I’m deeply grateful for this opportunity to contribute to the cultural heritage of the Philippines.
And you’ve been represented by galleries like Opulent Art Gallery UK. How does this partnership contribute to the growth and reach of your art?
Working with galleries is a collaborative process that extends the reach of my art. It opens up opportunities for exposure, connects me with new audiences, and allows me to focus more on the creative aspect. Each representation brings its own dynamics, and I’m grateful for the support and platform they provide.
Lastly, for those eager to connect with your work, what’s the best way for them to stay updated? Any upcoming projects or exhibitions you’d like to share?
Absolutely! For the latest updates, folks can check out my website wannabelabs.com and follow me on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. I’m currently working on some exciting new projects, and I can’t wait to share them with everyone. Feel free to reach out – I always appreciate connecting with fellow art enthusiasts!
Fantastic! Thank you so much for sharing your insights, IJWBAA. We look forward to seeing more of your incredible work in the future!
Thank you, Lisa! It’s been a pleasure. I’m excited about what the future holds, and I appreciate the opportunity to share my journey with you.
