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Art can speak volumes, especially when artists like Bahrain-based Mc Junvie Gonzales Ongcoy uses text to make statements and draw out his emotions.
The 35-year-old Filipino, who is a member of the colourfully cool collective called Art Attack Krew which features more than 30 members of different nationalities and artistic backgrounds, is a textual artist that uses words to deliver inspirational messages.
“I like making statements through my art and aspire to be a professional artist,” said the barista living in Arad, who is also an electronics engineering undergraduate.
“Using POSCA, which is a paint marker that’s popular with many artists and creatives, I transform blank canvases into motivational murals that can be hung anywhere. I hope whoever reads them gains confidence or it brightens up their day.”
Textual art has been used for centuries dating back to the medieval days when manuscripts had elaborate illustrations. The artistic expression took off in the 20th century with the likes of artists such as American conceptualist Barbara Kruger and former graffiti artist Steve Powers.
Graffiti art may not appear far off from textual art is it ranges from simple written words to elaborate wall paintings, which is what drew Mc Junvie to this art form too.
“I saw different graffiti artists on social media and liked the artwork,” he said. “I’m fascinated by how letters in graffiti are extended and really catch the eye.
“I’m inspired by Italian graffiti artist Simon Dee. Bahrain’s graffiti artists, Aref Mohammed Guloom ‘aka Master Ayfu’ and Mustafa Halwachi, introduced me to the graffiti world and while I still do a lot of calligraphy work and textual art, I am now learning graffiti to implement on a larger scale.”
Now Mc Junvie is working with acrylic paint and spray cans to create and he hopes his new found style will encourage others to try their hand at art too.
“It’s never too late to create and learn something new,” said Mc Junvie who is working on graffitiing a wall with Master Ayfu for a business.
“If you see something you like, go for it! We have so many talented artists in Bahrain that can also help. Artists, whether beginners or professionals, can always reach out to us.”
For more details, follow @art.attack.krew and @mcjunvie on Instagram.
