This year is a significant one for the artist who not only turns 50, but is also celebrating his 34th year in the local art scene. His decision to work in Laguna is mirrored in his more recent artworks, including portraitures and more figurative renditions of various subjects.
The year 2022 is a milestone for artist Nikulas Lebajo, as it not only marks his 34th year in the business. After years of perfecting his craft and drawing inspiration from various themes and sources, the son of equally respected artist Raul Lebajo is also celebrating his 50th birthday this year.
Like his father’s works, there are echoes of the countryside in the younger Lebajo’s paintings, as he is currently based in Laguna, spending most of his free time cycling through fields, rivers and valleys. In a way, Lebajo is continuing the spirit of his father’s work but with his own distinct voice.
Another subject that he has continuously explored over the years is still life. A rather common genre, it is a challenge for any artist to take on this subject while giving it a fresh take. On this, the artist says: “I’m more fascinated with repetition, composition and perspective. How far can I take this bottle or jar—modify it, diversify it, change it, without disguising its identity?”
And perhaps that is what has come to define Lebajo, who now carries the torch of his father’s legacy, and his works.
They say beginner’s luck usually means one has chosen the right path. Even before Lebajo started college as Fine Arts student at the University of the Philippines, for instance, he had already won the grand prize at the Shell National Student’s Art Competition in 1989 at 17.
Throughout his college years and soon after graduation, he would continue to win awards in art competitions, most notably the Metrobank Art Competition and the Philippine Art Awards. Exhibits at the prestigious Luz Gallery were also a regular affair. Back then, he was one of the youngest to have his works grace the gallery’s halls.
Recently, as the country’s economy and cultural scene began to open up, Lebajo has exhibited in ManilART 2021 under Artes Orientes Gallery and Galerie Stephanie. He is currently working on pieces commissioned by Solaire Resort and Casino.
Despite moving into more contemporary styles, namely portraiture and other representational genres, Lebajo has found a renewed appreciation for his and his father’s signature style.
Aside from living and working in the countryside, he also meditates regularly. And such a practice “bleeds” into his art-making. This focus on mankind’s place in the circle of life, he says, is what connects his work to his father’s.
At this point in his life, Lebajo shares that he wants to start giving back to the art community, encouraging younger creators towards a steady practice while finding their voice.
“I will be forever grateful to my father for the creative genes,” and the late National Artist Arturo Luz, whom he cites as a supporter, he beams. Now, he adds, it’s time to pay it forward.
Truly, the practice of art is not a race, but a marathon, and is best enjoyed with a team and, ultimately, a community of equally dedicated and supportive practitioners.
To know more about Nikulas Lebajo, visit his Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/NikulasLebajo, and follow his IG page @https://www.instagram.com/nikulaslebajo.
