ARTIST STATEMENT

I’m a Canadian artist currently working in Seoul. My work has been featured in exhibitions in Korea and Canada. My last exhibition was under two pseudonyms: Niklas Bergman and Alan Robbins. The exhibit showcased two different styles which were presented as two different bodies of work. I started exhibiting using pseudonyms because I find that the each body of work needs an environment that is separate from the artist. On my last shows I hired an actor to play the part of the artist. I think it’s interesting to see how the audience interacts with the pretend me.

BIOGRAPHY

I was born in the Philippines and moved to Canada as a child. I grew up in Winnipeg and graduated from the University of Manitoba’s School of Fine Arts (with Honours). I had an interest in both sculpture and drawing during my university years but later focused on drawing. I’ve exhibited in several galleries, submitted works to minor art projects and sold my pieces ever since I graduated from university. Though it’s always good to have the rare opportunity to exhibit in galleries, I’m always thinking of alternative ways to show art. This is the reason why I experiment with book publishing and the use of pseudonyms and actors as stand-ins.   My drawing style consists of images made up of smaller images and text. It is a visual diary which allows those who are physically able an intimate window into the artist’s psyche. I enjoy exploring this need for public expression versus the need for personal privacy. I think the style also gives the viewer a sense of accomplishment as well as satisfying their inner voyeur.   I also create sculptures as ready-made products. My “Action Figure Expo” featured small sculptures of everyday people, which is a more lighthearted way of critiquing my environment. Samples of my work can be found at http://josephmreyes.com/.