Metals pose a formidable challenge as a medium for artwork due to their hardness. However, an artist in Bacoor, Cavite, challenges this notion, showcasing how these raw materials can be shaped into captivating artworks as home decor.
Nixxio Luarca Castrillo, 53, a sculptor, artist, and designer, immersed himself in the art world from a young age, spending time in his father's studio. Eduardo Castrillo, his renowned sculptor father, crafted notable pieces such as the People Power Monument along EDSA and the Bonifacio Shrine beside Manila City Hall.
Castrillo creates a diverse range of artworks, including home decor items like candle holders, tables, crucifixes, decorative chess pieces, and chandeliers. Additionally, he takes on crafting projects like statues and figurines. His piece "Reflection," a mirror frame, is influenced by Michael Jackson's "Heal the World," reflecting the idea that to make a positive change in the world, one must start by looking within themselves.
“I wanted to do something different because we know that mirrors are just easily obtained, and what can we do to make it different, to make it stand out? For me, that's the reason why I designed the frame of the mirror to give it more meaning. There's an individuality to it, that's what I decided to focus on,” Castrillo shared.
Each masterpiece begins with inspiration, often sparked by understanding the client's needs. Castrillo then studies the environment, conceptualizes the piece based on his intuition, and then renders it. Once the design is agreed upon, he executes the work.
Using metals like copper or stainless brass for its malleability, he uses wooden mallets in the sculpting process. Despite making the process look easy, creating a piece like a sphere from a sheet of metal is similar to taming a wild horse – it buckles and fights back, demanding careful handling.
Castrillo blends functionality and artistry in these home decor metal sculptures, serving as testaments to the boundless possibilities when creativity meets craftsmanship in the evolving design world.
For those aspiring to delve into metal sculpting, Castrillo shares these words of advice: "Follow your hearts and pursue your dreams. The key to being a metal sculptor lies in understanding the basics and building a strong foundation. Embrace each day as a learning process, and therein lies humility. To hone your craft, the most important thing is being observant."