A sculptor’s lifelong dialogue with wood
For Iloilo-based sculptor Jeanroll Ejar, woodcarving is not just a job. It is something handed down through his family. He grew up in a family of skilled workers, with a father who carved wood and built things and a mother who made furniture in their small family shop. His journey into sculpture started early and was clear from the beginning.
The ideas in his art come from daily life in the Philippines: real situations, personal experiences, and events seen through his eyes as an artist. Who he is as a sculptor is closely tied to where he lives. He tries to capture what he sees around him—everyday challenges, hard work, and strength—by carving them into wood, a material that keeps memories and history in its lines.
But he also feels a strong need to act quickly. He sees that traditional woodcarving is slowly fading away. More young people are choosing modern jobs, and machines and computers are taking over much of the carving work.
commentary on Philippine political power, labor, and survival
He points out that many young woodcarvers are even hired by cruise ships to carve ice, drawn by the chance to earn steady and good pay. While these changes make sense, they put traditional carving at risk of disappearing.
To help, he founded Iloilo Woodcarving Services, a group that teaches young people traditional woodworking skills. The project also helps them sell their work, enabling them to make a living and keep this important tradition alive.
His dedication to protecting Filipino craft has also led him to seek opportunities abroad. He applies for support and artist programs, hoping to showcase the work of Filipino woodcarvers to the world and help them gain recognition. Even as his work spreads, he stays humble. He says his parents are his creative heroes because they were the first to teach him. Their lessons still guide him, and he welcomes feedback, seeing it as a way to improve.
For him, artworks serve as the artist’s voice. As someone who identifies as an introvert, he believes sculpture speaks where words often fall short.
To young artists, his advice is honest and caring: art might not pay off right away, especially if you start with little. But keeping at it, being flexible, and finding ways to keep making art are important. He believes real art is not mainly about making money. It is about expressing yourself, finding happiness, and sharing your ideas with others.
You may reach Chong Ardivilla at kartunistatonto@gmail.com or chonggo.bsky.social
