This will be the first in a series of blogs for the sculptors who have finished their works for the Langkawi Art Biennale 2016.

Today we take a look at Angelico “Jik” Villanueva and the pieces of sculptures he has produced for this event.

Photo by Celso Pepito

Angelico Villanueva also known as Jik to friends, came from a clan of artists. He attended Fine Arts classes from the University of the Philippines. He started with painting but later veered towards sculpture, as he liked this challenge of working with three dimension materials, softening the look of stiff materials like wood, marble, brass, etc.

He had exhibited his works in various international locations such as New York, Malaysia, Indonesia, Hongkong, Singapore, among many others. He has also participated in international competitions and has garnered some awards.

One of his colleagues said of the way he worked for these LAB sculptural projects; “He worked like a madman. He finished his work ahead of all of us.” Jik finished three sculptural pieces in three days. Here are the pieces he is exhibiting for our Langkawi Art Biennale this year, with my description and the significant, interpretive thoughts he has written for each one:

Fly High! These are two marble sculptures where one observes the dominant lines denoting the figure of wings.
As transformation in our surroundings is inevitable, we are exposed to constant environmental changes. But one must be always resilient to courageously face any situation. One’s capabilities are significant and may stimulate a positive influence. One must always grab every opportunity to discover. So go on and explore, soar to greater heights. Aim to always FLY HIGH!

Emerged This piece of driftwood stands tall, again showing semblance to wings that soar.
For purpose of development, we are in continuous search and exploration. Everyone aims for progress to become prominent. We must then be bold to achieve a better environment for all. So come forth, manifest yourself and help with the best of your abilities.

Voyage The body of the whale is made of Philippine jade, brass flippers positioned on top of a piece of Philippine coral.
Whales tend to migrate and explore, always in continuous voyage to find better feeding and breeding grounds. Like humans, they are in continuous search for food and habitat agreeable to them. Though the largest fish in the entire ocean, they are harmless and unafraid of swimmers. Whales are fondly known as “The Gentle Giants”.

Exploration The human figure is made of brass and the boat is carved from hard wood with Philippine jade used as the base.
This artwork depicts a journey. A continuous travel for enrichment with all challenges to encounter. But with that also comes joy and triumph. Life is a celebration!

These are Jik’s finished sculptures.

We look forward to more surprises coming from other sculptors in the coming days.