Angel Moreno

Angel Moreno is a notable Filipino contemporary artist recognized for his versatile work across painting and sculpture. He is particularly celebrated for his innovative “3D paintings” and his intricate sculptures that often explore themes of nature and movement.

Profile Overview

• Education: He studied at the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Fine Arts.

• Early Career: Before focusing on visual arts, Moreno worked as a session musician and vocalist. He returned to his creative roots in fine arts to seek a more stable professional path.

• Artistic Style: His work is characterized by a “3D” or embossed technique. His sculptures often utilize materials like brass, mixed media, and traditional Batikuling wood.

Notable Themes & Works

Moreno is well-known for his depictions of aquatic life and floral arrangements, where he plays with light and texture to create a sense of depth.

• Signature Subjects: Koi fish, lotus flowers, lilies, and “Santan” blossoms.

• Key Sculptures:

  • Silent Symphony: A welded sculpture that captures rhythmic motion.

  • Golden Serenity: A brass-on-stone piece featuring fluid, organic forms.

  • Sakura Triptych: A unique acrylic wood caricature that showcases his detailed craftsmanship.

Philosophy

His transition into professional art was marked by a period of personal struggle, which he often references as the “dark and light” of his journey. This is reflected in his Dark & Light Gallery, where he showcases how art can transform cold or “sad” imagery into vibrant, striking masterpieces. His work is often cited for its ability to “change colors” or appear differently under varying light conditions, a technique he mastered after a night of painting by candlelight.