A Parallel Planets piece by Unknown
Parallel Planets presents Anjo Bolarda
in Carved Curiosities
Interview by Erin Emocling
Mentioned: Japanese artists, being an undergraduate, and a very sad universe
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Erin Emocling: Hey, Anjo! Tell us something about yourself as a visual artist and before you became one.
Anjo Bolarda: Hello! As a visual artist, I’m known for working with a lot of mediums and styles. I have a range of style in illustration, painting, and installation. I believe that an artist should not limit themselves and shouldn't be concerned about iconography and signature since no one in this world is telling you to stick to a singular look and identity. Before I got into visual arts, I worked as a designer for Folded and Hung and earlier worked as Media Relations officer for an Advertising and Public Relations firm.
EE: When/How did your inclination with the arts begin?
AB: I started drawing when I was 3 but didn't really plan to be an artist as I grew up. I got introduced to the arts when a friend of mine brought me to a gallery opening in Saguijo back in 2009. It was surreal, and at that moment I knew I was in the right track of my life.
EE: What defines your artistic style? What are your “trademarks?”
AB: Since I have a lot of styles, I think my trademark is making a great piece and putting a part of myself in my works. Nothing more.
EE: What influences your work? Who inspires you?
AB: I have a lot of influences but they change through time. However, I'm always inspired by Japanese artists like Makoto Aida, the late Tetsuya Ishida, Shintaro Kago, Yoshitomo Nara, Yayoi Kusama, Takashi Murakami, and Kenichii Tanaami, to name a few. I am inspired not just by their work but their thought process and ideology as well.
EE: What are your most recent collaborations with other artists?
AB: Recently, I collaborated with Dee Jae Paeste for a mural in SM Manila, and helped out painting an ice cream cart with Gary Baseman. I also had a collaborative workshop with Cordillera Green Network in Baguio, where I did an art workshop for teachers in Sabangan, Mt. Province. I taught them how to make art pieces and materials using found objects in their environment.
EE: How do you deal with the so-called “artist’s block”?
AB: I go get a massage, watch a movie, or hangout with artist friends. I think for me it’s the best thing to do.
EE: How about your creative process? From conception of ideas to execution of thoughts, how do you go about creating something?
AB: Once I have a concept I try to finish it first in my head. That's why people always think I'm procrastinating. I can’t start a painting or illustration if it’s not yet finished in my head. I spend more time conceptualizing than doing the actual work. For me, real art is about the process of conceptualizing and planning the artworks, not really the finished piece.
EE: How do your artworks relate to your personal story?
AB: Lately, I learned how to use my personal experiences as inspiration for my work.
EE: What is your mantra in life?
AB: I don’t actually have one...
EE: As one of today’s young generation of visual creatives in the Philippines, how can you “Inspire. Interpret. Express.” your fellow local artists
AB: I think my life story could be an inspiration, looking back at what I was before to what I am right now. It sounds dramatic but I think that’s one of the things I’m proud to share. I was an undergraduate who didn't have any background in arts and design but was able to work with clients and galleries locally and abroad. This proves daydreaming is the first step to achieving something awesome!
EE: Aside from graphic design, what other creative pursuits are you interested in? Also, what’s a typical day in Anjo Bolarda's life? Tell us more about the other side of yourself.
AB: I’m into Marketing and Branding but also interested in learning other crafty works like pottery, weaving, wood carving, etc.
EE: Mention three of your favorite things in the world.
AB: It's hard to pick just three, but I guess, travel, food, and art.
EE: It's 3 AM in your part of the globe. What would you be most likely doing?
AB: Sleeping. Artists are humans too; we're not owls or any kind of nocturnal beings.
EE: Do you have any weird habits? Strange desires? Unlikely fetishes? Surprise us.
AB: I’m jumpy. I talk to myself. I have strange "what if " thoughts about waking up, like, what would it be like to wake up as a hotdog or a keyboard?
What project(s) are you currently working on?
AB: I'm working on my solo show this coming May, it’s titled “ SORRY FOR THE INCONVENIENCE” Hope you guys join me in the opening if you got the time. And currently doing some illustration for a project called Google Doodle.
In this planet that we're thriving in—
What is your power animal? Why?
A bear of my size, of any kind.
Who is your alternate ego? Why?
My alter ego is Anjo Bolarda.
In an alternate universe where art does not exist—
What would your name be? Why?
That would be a very sad universe and I would therefore decide not to exist there.
What would you be doing instead? Why?
Sleeping. It burns fats!
In collaboration with Bratpack, a special write-up by Erin Emocling on Anjo Bolarda also appears on their blog for their Remix project, which you can check out here!
More from Anjo Bolarda: Behance
