Paul 'Pao' Hafalla, widely recognized as IJWBAA, born in Manila, Philippines, and currently resides in Pangasinan. His artistry spans various mediums, encompassing digital art, painting, sculpture, drawing, and writing. IJWBAA's creative journey orbits around the portrayal of elongated, simplified figures within the digital realm. Drawing influence from Rothko's minimalistic abstractions and inspired by the likes of Giacometti and Venus de Milo, he navigates beyond conventional visual representation, delving into the intricate depths of individual identity and inviting audiences to contemplate the complexities of the human condition.
At the heart of IJWBAA's artistic expression lies a compelling interplay between simplicity and profound meaning, evident in his fusion of influences, blending Rothko's minimalism, the form of Venus de Milo, and Giacometti's elongated figures. Notably, he crafted a captivating 3x4 feet acrylic canvas painting titled 'The Builders,' swiftly acquired by esteemed Filipino art collectors, and published "I Just Wannabe An Artist" Book 1, chronicling his artistic evolution from August to December 2022—a prelude to a series documenting his ongoing creative journey.
IJWBAA's impact on the art scene extends globally, with exhibitions spanning solo showcases like "Breaking Boundaries" and "Made to Order" in VR format at OncyberIO, to group exhibitions such as "Fight for Kindness 2023" in Firenze, Italy. His artwork graces galleries in New York and London, attracting notable collectors and earning recognition through prestigious competitions in Milan and Paris. His multifaceted talents and diverse body of work continue to captivate and inspire art enthusiasts worldwide, earning features in prominent publications across Germany, United Kingdom, Japan, Spain, and beyond, solidifying IJWBAA's position as a globally renowned, multifaceted artist.
