Filipino sculptor Ombok Villamor has deep dived into the ocean’s mysteries in his latest exhibit “Wonders of the Deep.” Inspired by the breathtaking beauty and intricate ecosystems of marine life, his sculptures bring to life the ethereal glow of bioluminescent creatures. 

“I drew inspiration from the breathtaking beauty and mystery of the ocean’s depths, fascinated by the intricate beauty of marine life and ecosystems,” says Villamor. “I was able to observe these in my younger days spending time with fellow fishermen and watching it on documentaries.”

His choice of manta rays, jellyfish, and corals as the main subjects of his collection is not merely aesthetic. “I research about them and found that they emit light that we are mostly unaware of, hence, it is only visible during night time and sometimes very faint that only other marine animals can see it,” he explains. “These functional sculptures I have created featuring manta-rays, jellyfish, and corals, showcase their beauty and importance. Manta-rays are graceful, jellyfish are truly adaptable, and corals connect us all. Their soft, warm glow, which I installed inside them, symbolizes elegance and exquisiteness. In any given space, I believe it can spark conversations about ocean conservation.”

Light plays a pivotal role in Villamor’s work. “Light represents life and energy in my sculptures, echoing the vital role it plays in producing oxygen through photosynthesis as well as communication among marine creatures, and navigation,” he says. By incorporating luminescent materials, he evokes the otherworldly radiance of deep-sea creatures, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.

To capture the essence of these creatures, Villamor combined his artistic intuition with his background in architecture and engineering. “I planned and worked on it for more than a year with some brainstorming and consultation with my curator and friend Abe Orobia. I made all of these using artistic intuition and research,” he says. “I did not only make sculptures that glow but as well made my paintings three dimensional. It is inspired by different things but mostly the rhythm of the ocean waves and kelp or sea grass making my sculpture dynamic and free-flowing.”

To create a truly immersive experience, Villamor has carefully curated the exhibition space. “The soft lights, calming colors, pulsating layers of paints, and ocean wave background music create an underwater feeling,” he explains. “The exhibit’s design helps you relax and feel like you are in a different world and yet part of it.”

Villamor’s artistic style is deeply influenced by his experiences as a fisherman and architect. “My experience as a fisherman helped me understand the ocean’s patterns and creatures. Studying architecture taught me to notice details and arrange spaces, skills I use to show the beauty of marine life,” he muses.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, “Wonders of the Deep,” is a powerful call to action. “Through art, may I inspire emotional connections, raise awareness about climate change that is connected to our oceans, promote sustainability, and foster a sense of responsibility to our planet’s vital ecosystems. Additionally, I want my gallery OMVI Art to serve as a light to my fellow artists. I envision it as a sanctuary, particularly for those who are emerging, nurturing creativity, and fostering artistic expression,” says Villamor.

By immersing viewers in the beauty and fragility of marine life, Villamor hopes to inspire a new generation of ocean stewards and invite them to connect with the natural world and commit to its preservation.

“Wonders of the Deep” was recently part of ManilART 2024, the longest-running visual arts fair, which ran in early October at the SMX Convention Center Aura.