Joel Reglos and his fascination with abstractions

Abstract art is pretty much one of the most common styles people see in the contemporary visual art scene. It is wild, uninhibited, and dramatic. While many would see it either as a chaotic display of brushstrokes or as a serene view of lines and shape, abstract art depicts more than just the elements jumbled together on a canvas—especially for creators who practice this.

That’s what goes into the artwork of abstractionist Joel Reglos. Born in Sta. Cruz, Manila and raised in Calauag, Quezon, this 27-year-old visual artist discovered art as one of the best mediums to share his sentiments. Although he could have painted a more precise picture of what he is feeling or thinking, he chose to interpret his thoughts in a more abstract way.

“Personally, I believe that portraying the exact image that our eyes see is not always necessary,” Joel says “ As a result, rather than painting what I see, I create art based on how make me feel.”

In this Featured Young Artist (FYA!) story, Manila Bulletin Lifestyle chats with Joel as he shares more about his creative process, his view on youth pursuing a career in the arts, and how art that is so conceptual can be relatable to others.

Hi, Joel! First off, how would you describe your art, and yourself as an artist?

My art is simply a reflection of who I am and how I feel. It's basically a piece of me transferred on a canvas and made pleasing to the eyes. My pieces are contemporary in style. The concept of my works revolves around my daily life, based on what I see, experience, and feel every day.

As an artist, I would describe myself as dedicated, passionate, and certain this is what I truly desire in life. Ever since I was young, I have always had this feeling that is what I am meant for. I want to create my own art style, be known for my perspective, show people how I see life, and try to inspire others and to leave a legacy. I am in a constant and continuous process of discovery to develop myself and my style further.

Where do you draw inspiration for your art?

As a visual artist, there are three things I consider as foundation for the creation of every artwork: day-to-day experiences, life choices, and the sensations things make me feel.

As a child, I was very observant. Coupled with my creative and imaginative mind, this caused me to look at things and reflect on them in a variety of ways. That's when I knew I wanted to show real-life events in a unique and unusual way. I believe that portraying the exact image our eyes see is not always necessary. As a result, rather than painting what I see, I create masterpieces based on how these things make me feel.

Also, one of my objectives that really enthuses me to create art is how it allows me to share with my audience who I am and what my life experiences are. They are able to connect with me through my art and that I am able to share my life with them. I hope to enable people to freely relate to my pieces based on their own understanding of them.

Among your current body of works, do you have a particularly favorite piece? Which is it and why?

My piece, “Source of Grace” is one of my favorites. It means that we should appreciate and be grateful for all the blessings the Lord is giving us. It’s about realizing that each thing we see, every single thing we have, everything in this world was created and was given to us by the Almighty. So we should deepen and strengthen our faith in him.

What is your personal opinion about young people pursuing arts, whether as a passion or a profession?

Continue what you're doing because you're doing a fantastic job. You may not see it clearly right now, but it is all well worth your time and effort. It will never be easy, especially in the beginning. As a young artist myself, I believe we should never stop working hard and continue to allow our passion for art to shine. Never ever doubt yourself and keep your mind focused on what you want to achieve. All of your hard work to become a well-known and respected visual artist will, before long, begin to pay off. Soon enough, we will slowly see our dreams and plans unfolding right before our very own eyes. For this very reason, I already want to congratulate each one of us.

Any message you want to give to aspiring artists?

It sounds like a cliché, I know, but every great artist began as a novice. Like every other artist, I had to start from the very beginning. It really takes time and devotion. So keep creating and never stop studying your own art, your own style, and simply be inspired by what you do. Humbly follow your heart because the most important thing is that you are happy with whatever you choose to do. Being happy and enjoying is already a win-win situation.

Visit Joel’s Facebook and Instagram pages to see more of his works.

Interview by Dom Galeon

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