World Art Dubai, the prestigious art fair hosted at the Dubai World Trade Center, is set to feature a selection of innovative Filipino artists this year, including the distinguished Michael ‘Chael’ Villareal. At 34, Chael, a college faculty member at First Industrial Science and Technology College, is emerging as a prominent figure on the international art stage with his unique contributions to the Spectro-lucid collection.
Chael’s artwork, which explores the intricate relationship between feminism and nature, particularly the metaphorical and literal aspects of birds, has been described as both powerful and evocative.
“For this exhibition, I wanted to bring attention to the symbiotic relationship between feminism and nature,” Chael explains with The Global Filipino Magazine.
“Birds, in particular, embody this connection, with their ability to navigate both land and sky.”
Chael’s distinctive approach, known as “ligne de contour,” emphasizes bold contour lines, creating a dynamic interplay of shapes and emotions without the use of gradients.
“This style is a result of years of immersion in the art world, a technique that allows me to inject life into my art,” he says.
When asked about the honor of representing the Philippines on this stage, Chael spoke with humility and passion.
“It’s a profound responsibility and an honor to share our cultural heritage with a global audience,” he said. “I feel privileged to contribute to the international dialogue on art.”
Visitors to World Art Dubai can expect to experience a diverse array of surreal art pieces within the Spectro-lucid collection. Chael’s works are steeped in historical, steampunk, and feminist concepts, promising a unique visual feast.
Describing his preparation for the exhibit, Chael reveals, “The process has been intense but immensely rewarding. I drew inspiration from my family, which fuels my creativity. Juggling my role as a full-time educator and a passionate artist is challenging, but I believe in harmonizing both.”
Chael’s work adds a distinctive voice to the narrative of contemporary Filipino visual arts. He believes that art should not only depict beauty but also engage in societal discourse, reflecting and questioning cultural dynamics.
Looking beyond World Art Dubai, Chael aspires to deepen his artistic practice and continue participating in international shows.
He emphasizes his ambition to use art as a means of advocacy, “I aspire to incite dialogue, promote cultural understanding, and inspire change.”
The exhibit will be open to the public from May 2 to 6, 2024.