Nani Reyes is born on February 27, 1977, is one of the new wave artist of Angono who is known for introducing his own style of cubism. He rediscovered new styles of cubism and developed works of full characters by using flows and graceful anatomic movements.
Cubism, emerged in the era of Cesar Legaspi and Vicente Manansala These artists portrayed social relativism who were self-consciously renouncing previous art styles they thought had become boring and stale.
Remarkably, Nani Reyes has introduced new styles in his artworks, he has exploited the full potentials of colors in his paintings, using warm and intense colors in his fragmented pictures.
Nani wants to portray in his artworks, his life as a kid, the games that they have played during their child-hood days to try to display it to the kids of this generation who were in the high-tech era. Depicting games such as Luksong Tinik, Sipa, Laban ng Gagamba, etc. is his prevailing artworks.
Growing up as a church sacristan also influenced his works and his latest works including Mama Mary, Sleeping St. Joseph, Prusisyon and other religious figures
Also his mother and child masterpieces and works showing family values are popular among his collectors.
Nani is a self-taught artist. He used to watch older artist and then he will remake it when he got home.Amazingly, through the ages he now mastered modern social expressionism that art lovers easily can relate into.
What inspired you to become an artist?
I always consider myself an avid fan of art, such as the works of Vicente Manansala, Botong Francisco, and other notable Filipino artists. Luckily, I was able to transform this desire to seek the beauty of art into tangible material by improving my artwork which is paintings where people–art seekers alike, were also able to experience the feeling of enjoying various crafts one of which includes my art.
What was your first exhibit like?
My first exhibit was held at The Second Gallery in the house of the late national artist Botong Francisco, age 27. – My first exhibit was held at the Second Gallery in the House of the late National Artist Botong Francisco in 2004. It was an overwhelming experience because I used to enjoy his artwork and being able to showcase my works in the home of “the Botong Francisco” was truly a great honor for me.
What are you currently working on?
I am currently working on my 7th Solo exhibit entitled Play+Pen which showcases my “Larong Bata” collection at the ArtAsia Gallery in SM Megamall. This exhibit also serves as a fundraiser to help the poverty-stricken communities of Antipolo where a part of the proceeds will go to “Tinapay ng Birhen,” an Apostolate of Antipolo Cathedral.
What is your process like?
Since my artworks subject the “child-like wonder” through Larong-Bata, I always think about my childhood experiences.
What was the most valuable thing you learned doing your art?
I learned that nostalgia is truly a powerful tool for creating art.
What is your favorite piece you’ve created?
My favorite piece I worked on was the Antipolo Cathedral Collection. I am devout of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage so it is an unforgettable memory of mine when I worked on this project. Being able to see my artworks lined with the crafts of other artists is truly a fulfilling experience. What is your favorite piece by another artist? -Manansala’s Pila ng Bigas
Why do you work in the medium that you do?
I find it easier to work with and I can express myself more. On the technical side, acrylic dries off quickly so I was able to paint my artwork faster than oil painting.
What is your favorite place to create in?
It may sound cliché but there’s no place like home. I always feel at ease when I am at my studio. That way, I can relax and think about my next artwork.
