About the Artist
About the Artist
Joel Ajero
Joel Luna Ajero was born in Manila in 1947. He graduated from the University of the Philippines with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and up until his retirement was a licensed Chemical Engineer by profession. However, his passion for doing art led him to concentrate on creating functional art.
The works of Ajero range from different furniture and decorative interior design pieces to large-scale sculptures made mostly from a mixture of metal, wood, fiberglass, and resin. He made the Centennial Cauldron for the celebration of the 100th year anniversary of the University of the Philippines in 2008.
Organic Design
Philippine Flora
Functional Design
~ Functional Art ~
Ajero is notably known for his wrought iron works. His expertise is in the creation of organic designs of twigs, branches, leaves, and vines. His works adopt the natural look of the likes of grapevines and various Philippine fruits and flowers. He made a series of candleholders that showcase fruits such as mango, santol, atis, balimbing, calamansi (Philippine lemon), makopa, guyabano and lanzones.
He also makes furniture pieces of wood and metal, and a combination of both media. These works are called functional art, which include tables, benches, chairs, bed frames, mirror frames, and a variety of accent pieces.
Organic Design
Philippine Flora
Functional Design
~ Inspiration ~
Natural
Joel draws deep inspiration from the organic forms and intricate details found in nature. His works often feature elements like twigs, branches, leaves, and vines, capturing the beauty and complexity of the natural world. This connection to nature is evident in his furniture and decorative pieces, which seamlessly blend functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Philippine Flora
Ajero's creations celebrate the rich diversity of Philippine flora, incorporating local fruits and flowers into his designs. His series of candleholders, for instance, showcases the unique shapes and textures of various Philippine fruits and flowers. Through his art, he honors the botanical heritage of his homeland.
Engineering
With a background in Chemical Engineering and Industrial Engineering, Ajero brings a meticulous, scientific approach to his art. His technical expertise allows him to innovate with materials like metal, wood, fiberglass, and resin, pushing the boundaries of what functional art can achieve. This blend of engineering precision and artistic vision results in pieces that are both durable and strikingly beautiful.
Functionality
A hallmark of Ajero's work is the seamless integration of form and function. He creates practical yet artistic items such as tables, benches, chairs, bed frames, and mirror frames. Each piece is designed to serve a purpose while also enhancing the aesthetic environment, embodying the concept of functional art.
Functionality
A hallmark of Ajero's work is the seamless integration of form and function. He creates practical yet artistic items such as tables, benches, chairs, bed frames, and mirror frames. Each piece is designed to serve a purpose while also enhancing the aesthetic environment, embodying the concept of functional art.
Cultural Heritage
Ajero's work is deeply rooted in the cultural traditions and craftsmanship of the Philippines. By incorporating traditional motifs and locally sourced materials, he pays homage to his heritage and promotes a sense of national pride. His pieces are not just art; they are a celebration of Filipino identity and artistry.