IJWBAA [eej-wah]

Paul ‘Pao’ Hafalla (b. 1978),¹ professionally known as IJWBAA [eej-wah],² is a Filipino digital artist celebrated for blending classical influences with contemporary digital techniques. His abstract, minimalist works explore themes of identity, culture, and existentialism, offering a fresh perspective on Filipino heritage in a modern context. The pseudonym IJWBAA—short for “I Just Wannabe an Artist”³—marks his transformation from an IT specialist to a respected digital artist.

Early Life and Education

Family and Heritage

Born in Manila with roots in Pangasinan, IJWBAA was raised in a family that valued resilience, education, and love. His upbringing in a modest household taught him the importance of perseverance and gratitude, guided by the unwavering support of his parents. Their influence fostered a strong work ethic and provided emotional stability, laying the foundation for his artistic and professional journey.

Personal Journey

Curious and resourceful from an early age, IJWBAA discovered his passion for creativity and technology with the help of a secondhand computer. This humble tool became his gateway to exploration, sparking a lifelong fascination with problem-solving and innovation. While his academic path was unconventional, his aptitude for creative and critical thinking helped him excel in projects that required imagination and resourcefulness.

Balancing artistic aspirations with the pursuit of a stable career, he found success in the IT field while continuing to nurture his creative voice. Over time, art became a powerful outlet for self-expression and introspection, bridging the gap between his professional and personal passions.

Cultural Reflections

Growing up in a society that often emphasized academic and financial achievements, IJWBAA experienced the tension between cultural expectations and his creative dreams. However, his heritage became a wellspring of inspiration, as he wove Filipino symbols and themes into his work. This exploration of tradition and modernity has become a defining element of his art, reflecting his journey of self-acceptance and identity.

Struggles and Triumphs

Like many artists, IJWBAA encountered challenges, from moments of self-doubt to creative setbacks. Yet, these experiences strengthened his resilience and determination, shaping him into the artist he is today. For him, one of the most meaningful accomplishments is not a career milestone but the heartfelt connections his work fosters, resonating deeply with others who see their stories reflected in his art.

Looking Ahead

Today, IJWBAA continues to balance his dual passions for technology and art. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-expression, inspiring others to embrace their unique paths. For him, success lies not in perfection but in creating meaningful connections and celebrating the richness of his journey.

Artistic Journey

In 2020, an art exhibit in Tarlac City reignited IJWBAA’s artistic passion, marking a turning point after years of personal and professional challenges. By 2022, he embraced his identity as IJWBAA,⁹ creating works that reinterpret classical forms through modern digital techniques. His compositions blend abstract minimalism with classical motifs, drawing inspiration from icons like Venus de Milo and the emotional depth of Mark Rothko and Alberto Giacometti.¹⁰

Style and Vision

IJWBAA’s digital art merges simplicity with depth,¹¹ creating minimalist designs that explore identity, culture, and existence.¹² His work engages viewers in discussions about the adaptability of Filipino heritage in a globalized world, using contemporary digital tools to reimagine traditional symbols and Filipino mythology.

Notable Collectors

Notable collectors of IJWBAA's art include Sofia Coombe¹³ from London, United Kingdom, co-founder of Art World Database; Bentley Lim¹⁴ from San Juan City, Manila, Philippines; and IJWBAA Art Prints collectors from the US and UK, whose identities remain unknown. Other prominent collectors include Hugh Stiel¹⁵ from Greater New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, owner of the Royal Frenchmen Hotel Bar and Gallery; Dr. Gerard "Toto" Salgado¹⁶ from San Juan City, Manila, Philippines, founder of Jo-Liza Arts & Antiques, Inc.; Alan C. Fleming,¹⁷ an author and poet from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; and Joshua Benson & Nikki Yanong¹⁸ from BGC Taguig City, Philippines, representing JNB Builders Inc and ArtStalkerPh. Gilbert Simpao,¹⁹ based in Cavite, Philippines, is the General Manager and Chief Commercial Officer at PruLife UK, while Juanton Robes²⁰ from Pasig City, Philippines, is a collector of arts and toys. Marty Ian Gideon Flores²¹ from Dagupan City, Philippines, is an art curator and owner of DCTY Micro Gallery. Additionally, IJWBAA NFTs have attracted collectors from around the world, though their identities remain undisclosed.

Awards

IJWBAA has received several notable recognitions and awards over the years. In 2024, he was nominated for the Top 100 Filipinos on LinkedIn²² and the NFT Design Awards,²³ both of which took place in September. In 2023, he participated in the UTGP 2024 event, "Discoveries of the Louvre",²⁴ held at the Louvre Museum and Uniqlo in Paris, France. In 2022, IJWBAA was a finalist in the "Fight 14" competition organized by ArtsFighters²⁵ in Milan, Italy, where he presented "Pirate." Additionally, he secured 2nd place in the unofficial World Children’s Day²⁶ event in Paris, France, for his piece "Children of Meta" in November 2022.

Recognitions

His works are part of esteemed collections worldwide,²⁷ including the Getty Research Institute (Los Angeles, USA), Cultural Center of the Philippines (Manila, Philippines), Uffizi Gallery (Florence, Italy), Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía (Madrid, Spain), Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal (MACM) (Quebec, Canada), Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (Japan), National Museum of the Philippines (Manila, Philippines), Library of Congress (Washington, DC, USA), British Library (London, UK), Bibliotheca Alexandrina (Alexandria, Egypt), National Library and Archives UAE (Middle East), National Library Board Southeast Asia Collection (Singapore), National Library of the Philippines (Manila, Philippines), Asia Art Archive (Hong Kong, China), Royal College of Art (London, UK), Tokyo University of the Arts (Japan), and the University of the Philippines Diliman (Manila, Philippines). His works have also been featured in virtual exhibitions such as Homage to Icons (2023)²⁸ and Kizumei Zukaka (2024),²⁹ solidifying his place in the digital art world. Additionally, IJWBAA is the first Filipino artist from the Philippines to be recognized in the Techspressionism movement³⁰ in the US, underscoring his significant impact on contemporary digital art.

Exhibitions

IJWBAA's solo exhibitions include a range of virtual reality (VR) experiences, starting with "Workers of New York",³¹ presented by Digital Arts Blog NYC in the USA, from July 1–31, 2024. Other notable solo shows include "United as One"³² (OncyberIO, June 1–30, 2024), "Kizumei Zukaka (IJWBAA)"³³ (OncyberIO, March 1–31, 2024), "Homage to Icons"³⁴ (OncyberIO, December 1–31, 2023), "Typical Atypical"³⁵ (OncyberIO, November 1–30, 2023), "Breaking Boundaries"³⁶ (OncyberIO, October 1–31, 2023), "365 Art+ Magazine"³⁷ (OncyberIO, September 1–30, 2023), and "Love Pets, Be Kind"³⁸ (OncyberIO, August 1–31, 2023). Other exhibitions include "Made to Order"³⁹ (OncyberIO, July 1–31, 2023), "mari et femme"⁴⁰ (OncyberIO, June 1–30, 2023), "Up and Coming"⁴¹ (OncyberIO, May 15–31, 2023), and "April Fools"⁴² (OncyberIO, April 1–30, 2023).

In addition to solo shows, IJWBAA has participated in various group exhibitions, including "Artwork for a Cause"⁴³ (Postcard Art Exhibit, Texas, USA, September 21–October 10, 2024), "Sophie’s Postcard"⁴⁴ (United Kingdom, June 19–30, 2024), and "Fraction"⁴⁵ (Fox Yard Studio, Suffolk, UK, April 27–May 5, 2024). Other group exhibitions include "Earth Hour"⁴⁶ (Gland, Switzerland, March 23, 2024), "Art x Technology"⁴⁷ (Meta Space Gallery, Liverpool, UK, February 1–29, 2024), "Life Under Climate"⁴⁸ (Adelaide Festival, Adelaide, Australia, March 2024), and "The Wall"⁴⁹ Print it! 2024 – The Show Without Boundaries (Leeds, UK, February 2–March 1, 2024). Additional exhibits include "Love Pets, Be Kind"⁵⁰ (Fight for Kindness, Type Campus, Florence, Italy, November 2023), "Signed Sealed Delivered – Mail Art"⁵¹ (Waterfall Arts Org, Maine, USA, October 20–March 29, 2024), "Beach Boy"⁵² (Heatwave, Dodomu Gallery, Brooklyn, New York, USA, August 3–September 21, 2023), and "Secret Postcard Show 2023"⁵³ (Old Lock Up Gallery, Derbyshire, UK, August 18–September 3, 2023). The artist also participated in Arts + Causes "maritux et uxor"⁵⁴ (July 9–15, 2023), "The Changes"⁵⁵ (Climate Art Collection, Germany, June 26, 2023), "The Place of Memory"⁵⁶ (Cista Arts, London, UK, June 1–30, 2023), and "Meryenda"⁵⁷ (Have You Eaten + Kasama Space, Seattle, USA, May 17–June 17, 2023). Finally, "Celebrate Art with Colours"⁵⁸ (VR Exhibit, Opulent Art Gallery, UK, May 14, 2023) and "Party-Party" (Sticker Icons, Museum of Krypto Art, Italy, April 24–May 5, 2023) rounded out the artist’s group exhibition engagements.

Advocacies

A passionate advocate for Filipino artists, IJWBAA mentors emerging creators, collects their works,⁵⁹ and uses his online platform to amplify their voices.⁶⁰. He advocates for "art with a purpose," using his work for cancer research and to raise awareness on issues like alienation, climate change, and kindness. His "Green Aliens"⁴³ piece in Texas (Sept 2024) explores societal disconnect, while "Figures" in the UK’s "Sophie’s Postcard"⁴⁴ exhibition (June 2024) supports cancer research. He also participated in "Earth Hour"⁴⁶ in Switzerland (March 2024) with "Lit Off", symbolizing environmental action. "Life Under Climate"⁴⁸ (March 2024, Adelaide Festival) urges sustainable choices, and "Love Pets, Be Kind"³⁸ (Italy, Nov 2023) promotes kindness to animals. His work "maritus et uxor"⁵⁴ (July 2023) explores equality in relationships, and "The Changes"⁵⁵ (Berlin, June 2023) highlights the urgency of addressing climate change.

Books

IJWBAA's book series "I Just Wanna Be an Artist" consists of three volumes. Book 1,⁶¹ which is a collection of works by IJWBAA from August 2022 to December 31, 2022, was published in 2023. Book 2,⁶² covering works from January 2023 to December 31, 2023, was published in 2024. Finally, Book 3,⁶³ which will feature works from January 2024 to December 31, 2024, is set to be published in 2025.

Personal Life and Legacy

From IT professional to acclaimed artist, IJWBAA’s journey is one of personal reinvention and resilience. Despite setbacks, he has used his challenges as fuel for creativity, inspiring others to pursue their artistic passions.⁶⁴ Based in the Philippines, he continues to push the boundaries of digital art, elevating Filipino identity on the global stage.

Press and Publications

IJWBAA has been featured in various interviews, with notable mentions including the "Digital Arts Blog"⁶⁵ (New York, USA, July 1, 2024), "Artwork Gallery"⁶⁶ (Kyiv, Ukraine, June 1, 2024), "The Global Filipino Magazine"⁶⁷ (Dubai, UAE, March 27, 2024), "The Flux Review"⁶⁸ (London, UK, March 2, 2024), "In Conversations: Insights of an Eco Artist"⁶⁹ (Portugal, December 5, 2023), and "Al-Tiba9 Contemporary Art"⁷⁰ (Barcelona, Spain, August 17, 2023).

IJWBAA has also been featured in several prominent magazines, including "Quadro Magazine"⁷¹ (Milan, Italy, December 15, 2024), "Art Up Mi Digital"⁷² (Issue 18, Milan, Italy, December 1, 2024), "Marika Magazine, Fine Art & Fantasy"⁷³ (New York, USA, November 16, 2024), "Artwork Gallery Magazine"⁷⁴ (Issue 9, Kyiv, Ukraine, September 26, 2024), "6X Media - Fine Arts"⁷⁵ (Vol 86, New York, USA, September 24, 2024), "Artego Magazine"⁷⁶ (New York, USA, September 19, 2024), "Artells Magazine"⁷⁷ (Aug Vol 2616, New York, USA, August 19, 2024), "Dolor Magazine"⁷⁸ (Issue X, New York, USA, May 1, 2024), "Goddessarts Magazine"⁷⁹ (Issue XII, Germany, December 26, 2023), "Hidden Talents"⁸⁰ (Arches Project Org, Birmingham, UK, December 24, 2023), "Inside the Artist Mind"⁸¹ (Opulent Art UK, December 1, 2023), and "365 Art+ Magazine"⁸² (Tokyo, Japan, August 2023).

IJWBAA's works have also been featured in various books, such as "Order, Suburban Utopia, An Infertile Place"⁸³ (Sheffield, UK, March 30, 2024), "The Show Without Boundaries"⁸⁴ (Leeds, UK, January 5, 2024), "Posters for Human Kind: Fight for Kindness"⁸⁵ (Firenze, Italy, December 19, 2023), and "The Place of Memory"⁸⁶ (Cista Arts, London, UK, June 2023).

Additionally, IJWBAA has been prominently featured on several platforms, including "Archive of Digital Arts"⁸⁷ (Krems, Austria, April 5, 2024), "Unveiling the Canvas of Creativity"⁸⁸ (IssueWire, Wyoming, USA, January 7, 2024), "Everybodywiki"⁸⁹ (United Kingdom, January 2, 2024), "ArtFacts"⁹⁰ (Berlin, Germany, December 23, 2023), "Portfolios: IJWBAA"⁹¹ (Creative Manila, Philippines, December 19, 2023), "Featured Artist: IJWBAA"⁹² (Agimat: Sining at Kulturang Pinoy, Manila, Philippines, December 8, 2023), "Art World Database"⁹³ (London/Singapore, November 25, 2023), "Artist Database"⁹⁴ (USA, November 20, 2023), "Embark on Artist Journey with IJWBAA"⁹⁵ (PressCenter, June 8, 2023), and "Twoucan by TINAMI"⁹⁶ (Tokyo, Japan, February 2023).

Representation

The Opulent Art Gallery UK represented IJWBAA⁹⁷ through standard representation from July 5, 2023, to October 31, 2023. Located in Leicester, United Kingdom (LE67 1EE), the gallery served as a platform to showcase the talent and creativity of international artists.

References

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