Xavier “Awee” Abelador is an Ivatan visual artist based in Batanes, Philippines,
known for representational painting and surreal narratives shaped by island
memory. Among the first Ivatan artists to complete formal fine arts training,
he earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts from FEATI University in Manila and gained
early recognition through national competitions, including being runner up in
ArtPetron 2006 and a finalist in both the Shell Art Competition (2006) and the
PLDT DPC cover design contest (2005 to 2006).
Awee’s practice moves between two
visual languages. In his Batanes landscapes and seascapes, he paints with an
impressionist sensitivity to light, weather, and atmosphere, treating the
islands as both subject and witness. In his surreal works, he melds indigenous
motifs with a mythic scale of imagination, creating dreamlike scenes that feel
familiar yet shifted, as if viewed through recollection, faith, and folklore.
Across both bodies of work, his paintings are driven by storytelling,
intentional color, and carefully constructed light sources that guide emotion
and meaning.
Batanes remains his central
inspiration: its culture, heritage, and people. For Awee, art is a record of
lived experience, preserving memory while translating the spirit of place into
image. His work invites viewers to pause, revisit belonging, and see landscapes
not only as geography but as story.
Beyond studio practice, Awee is
active in creative community building in Batanes through teaching, mentorship,
workshops, and outreach initiatives that help develop local artists and expand
access to art education. He welcomes collaborations with collectors, galleries,
and institutions, offering commissioned works, licensing, and curated projects
that align with his artistic language and values.
His works have been exhibited in venues and events including Hiraya Gallery, Ayala Museum, Tam Awan Village Gallery, GSIS Museum of Art, ManilArt, as well as exhibitions in Hong Kong and Germany. He also participated in an art residency in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. He currently lives and works in Batanes with his wife, continuing to build new bodies of work while serving the local creative community.
FAQ
What commissions do you accept
I accept a limited number of commissions each year, primarily in two
categories: Batanes landscapes and seascapes and surreal narrative pieces.
What mediums do you use
Most commissions are created in oil or acrylic on canvas. Medium selection
depends on the concept, size, and intended display.
What sizes are available
Commissions are available in small, medium, and large formats. If you send a
wall photo and approximate measurements, I can recommend sizes that fit your
space well.
How long does a commission take
Timeline depends on size, complexity, and my current queue. After you send your
details, I will confirm an estimated completion window before we proceed.
Do you require a deposit
Yes. A deposit is required to reserve your slot and begin the concept and
production phase. The balance is due before shipping or delivery.
Do you ship outside Batanes or
outside the Philippines
Yes. Shipping is available, subject to location and courier options. Shipping
and packaging costs are shouldered by the client unless otherwise agreed.
How do I inquire or book a slot
Please use the Contact page and include your preferred category, size or wall
measurement, timeline, location for shipping, and any references or mood you
like.
For commissions and collaborations,
please reach out via the Contact page with your preferred category, size,
timeline, and location.
