Junyee, a master of wood and other organic materials, seamlessly blends art and environmental consciousness in his latest exhibit “of MAN and Nature.” His sculptures, crafted with reverence for the environment, transcend mere aesthetics, delivering a powerful message of sustainability and interconnectedness.

“My boyhood games and play usually included the use of wood,” Junyee shares. We didn’t have electronics gadgets, so I would make tops and other toys out of wood. Woods and other natural materials were part of my growing up. Wood became second nature to me.”

Growing up amid the lush landscapes of Agusan del Norte, a region known as the timber capital of the Philippines, profoundly influenced Junyee’s art. “Growing up, I fell in love with nature,” he recalls. “Our province was surrounded by nature. My grandfather had a big farm in Surigao City, where we spent our summer vacations. There, I learned more about the beauty of nature, animals, birds, and even crocodiles.”

His exhibit is a call to action. Junyee believes art can play a crucial role in raising environmental awareness. “Artists must be aware of this environmental crisis,” he says. “Those who bravely use their art to raise awareness can inspire others to join the environmental movement.”

A diverse range of sculptures is on display at Junyee’s show, each a testament to his deep connection with nature. His use of reclaimed or locally sourced wood underscores sustainability, while his masterful incorporation of soot and other organic elements highlights the delicate balance between creation and destruction.

Among the works featured, Junyee holds a special place for his entry to the 12th Paris Biennial in 1982 called Wood Things. “It was a groundbreaking exhibit that truly excited the art community,” he recounts. “After many years of our country’s absence from the biennale, I was invited. In that Paris show, I exhibited 700 wood pieces. I’ve recreated this work for this show because it was never previously exhibited here. It’s a significant piece in the context of contemporary art, especially considering that many Filipino artists today focus on modern or postmodern styles. Very few are actively engaged in contemporary art practices.”

Through his art, Junyee urges a deeper appreciation of the connections that bind humanity to the earth and to one another, ultimately inspiring a collective effort to protect and nurture our planet. His current exhibit encourages its viewers to contemplate their own relationship with the natural world. 

The exhibit is part of Altro Mondo Arte Contemporanea’s ICON series, which runs until Jan. 11, 2025. The series is an annual showcase of the work of prominent local artists who have made significant contributions to the art community and to the development of contemporary art.

Altro Mondo Arte Contemporanea is at 1159 Chino Roces Ave., Makati City.