Angelo B. Liwanag, a 17-year-old photography prodigy, is set to unveil his solo exhibit entitled “The World Through Privileged Eyes” on October 9, 2021 at the Avellana Art Gallery. The exhibit will run until October 30.  

Angelo’s interest in photography started when he was just 12 years old. “Using my old phone, it had a camera which I used to take pictures of various subjects that I edited in black and white,“ he recalls. “Though I have never taken formal lessons or classes, I look forward to taking one in the future when things get better. Right now, I watch videos online or take as many pictures as I can. My dad is also a photographer so I get advice from him as well.”

This first exhibit will not only be a memorable one for Angelo, but a chance to share to the world a sense of joy amid the gloom of the pandemic.  

“The point of my pictures is sort of like a ‘choose your own story.’ I can’t control what a person sees or feels even if they are looking at my work. Of course, I have my own take on it, but it really is a joy when they say that my photos make them happy or remind them of their own story.”

A fan of the works of world-renowned photographers Peter McKinnon, Platon, Annie Leibovitz, and Billy Mondonedo, Angelo also admires several YouTubers who take stills and videos, and anyone who is passionate about photography.

“I’m very much thankful and humbled that I have the privilege of mounting my first solo exhibit. The last few years really allowed me to learn more about the technical side of photography. I also used my trips abroad to improve my craft and to get better at what I do,” he says.  

Aside from photography, Angelo, who describes himself as an artist, is also into music. In fact, he sees himself 10 years from now, when he is 27, to be in the field of both music and photography/ cinematography.

“I don’t know what will happen in the future, especially with how things are in the world right now, but definitely, I’ll just do what I can to make the most out of it. Photography will always be a part of my life because it’s very exciting to see my pictures printed and framed – I can’t really explain how it makes me happy. I know it’s impossible for everyone to love or take a liking of your work since art will always and forever be subjective and no one can say otherwise.”

To see Angelo’s photos up close, he is inviting everyone to drop by Avellana Art Gallery at 2680 FB Harrison St., Pasay City.  He can be reached via Instagram (@angelodarrell) or via FB (Angelo Liwanag).

With health protocols in place, viewing is by appointment only, from Mondays to Saturdays at 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visitors are advised to call 8833-8357 or 0920-9505759, or to email: avellana_gallery@yahoo.com.  Angelo will have a “Meet the Artist” session on October 15 and 16. Visitors must RSVP Pocholo at 0917-8262469.