Interview
Mary Ann Manuel
Mary Ann Manuel is a Filipina painter who first picked up a paintbrush in 2016. She loves exploring the wonders of painting, and challenges herself to create art through expressing a soul-deep world of emotions.
Ann’s paintings can be described as abstract realism, visual art, and contemporary art with a deep, dreamy, romantic element.
Ann expresses beauty, mystery, authenticity, hope, and love through her brushstrokes.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I moved to Singapore in 2016 for two years, and then to Canada in 2018 after exploring the different cultures of Singapore. In 2021, I became a Canadian immigrate and I’m now perfecting my skills, working towards becoming a professional artist.
I’ll forever be grateful for trying my hand in painting because it brings wonderful, refreshing feelings to my life. I feel anything is possible through this art.”
What inspires you?
“I find beauty in the raw and intense emotions that make us human, and I convey them through my art. Colors, shapes, and textures become the language through which I express the depths of the soul, the turmoil of the mind, and the essence of being. The world is a stage for human stories, and as an artist, I delve into the individual narratives that unfold around me. I draw inspiration from personal experiences, social issues, and the universal aspects of the human condition.
Expressionism allows me to break free from conventions and express the unfiltered truth. It’s a form of art that embraces the subjective and invites viewers to engage with their own emotions and interpretations. Through my work, I hope to ignite a spark within others, to stir emotions, and to encourage them to explore their own inner landscapes. My masterpiece is a celebration of authenticity and the power of art to speak to the deepest parts of our being.”
“As an artist, I’m inspired by the human spirit, its struggles, and its capacity for resilience.
I strive to create art that resonates, provokes, and invites viewers to engage with their own emotions and experiences.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“Every brushstroke holds a world of possibilities, every blank canvas a realm waiting to be born. As an artist, I believe in the power of imagination and the magic of creation. With each stroke, I bring my dreams to life, expressing emotions, stories, and visions that words alone cannot capture.
Through art, I embrace the freedom to explore, inspire, and touch the hearts of others. It is in the realm of art that I find my truest self, where my dreams take flight and where I’m limitless. I choose to follow this path, driven by the unyielding passion to create, to share, and to leave a mark on the world. For a dreamer can become an artist, and an artist can change the world with their colors.”
How would you describe your work?
“In my artwork, the subject matter is approached with an intense emotional lens that conveys a sense of anguish, joy, passion, or despair through the brushwork, color choices, and composition. Faces and figures might be distorted or exaggerated to reflect the intensity of the emotions being portrayed. The brushstrokes of my pieces are often bold, energetic, and spontaneous. They can be thick and textural, conveying a sense of urgency and rawness. Colors are applied with great intensity, sometimes deviating from the traditional representation of reality, to evoke a heightened emotional impact.
My art sometimes features abstract elements, where the focus is on capturing the essence of emotions rather than depicting realistic objects or scenes. I use symbolism or abstract forms to express my innermost feelings and thoughts.”
Which artists influence you most?
“I’m influenced by the expressive techniques of past masters like Van Gogh and Munch, who used bold brushstrokes and vivid colors to communicate deep emotions.
Social and political issues also play a role in shaping the work, as I use art to critique and reflect upon the world around me. I also draw inspiration from non-Western art, appreciating its directness and spiritual qualities. Additionally, I explore psychological theories to delve into the human psyche and tap into the subconscious. All of these influences come together to shape my unique artistic style, resulting in powerful and emotionally charged artworks.”
What is your creative process like?
“My work begins with finding inspiration from within, as well as from the world around me. I conceptualize an idea that reflects my emotions and then select the materials I’ll use. Working spontaneously, I use bold brushstrokes and intense colors, channeling my emotions into the artwork. I evaluate and make adjustments to enhance the desired emotional impact.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“As an artist, I believe I’ve got a powerful role in society through my art. I challenge norms and established ways of thinking, pushing boundaries through my art. By addressing social issues and injustices, I serve as a voice of social commentary, raising awareness and promoting dialogue. My art evokes strong emotional responses, touching the hearts of viewers and fostering connections among people.
As an artist, I celebrate individual expression, encouraging others to embrace their own uniqueness and find their creative voices. My work also holds cultural influence, inspiring future generations of artists, and leaving a lasting impact on society as a whole.”
Please tell us about any previous exhibitions you found noteworthy and wish to share.
“As an artist, I often find my previous exhibitions noteworthy due to the appreciation I receive from viewers, the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about my work, and the personal growth and artistic development achieved through my process.
I share my noteworthy exhibitions through various social media platforms. I love to share insights into my creative process, and engage with followers. Additionally, I write blog posts, publish articles, and participate in interviews to discuss my experiences and the impact my art has had.
Sharing my noteworthy exhibitions allows me to reach a broader audience, inspire other artists, and create connections with other individuals who resonate with their work. It also helps to further establish my artistic presence and contribute to the ongoing conversation in the art world.”
