In his handmade realistic portraits, he uses a mixed media technique using two materials: graphite and charcoal mixed.
He fills larger areas with charcoal powder, while carefully crafted details, like the finest skin pores, emerge from graphite and compressed charcoal pencils.
Blending tools – stumps, brushes, even tissue – refine these textures, leaving him deeply satisfied with the finished portrait.
"I was a loner. An introvert. It came to a point that I am afraid of dealing with other people," Almojuela admits.
In an interview with the Philippine Information Agency, he shared his humble beginnings and why his passion for arts and crafts is something he cannot let go of.
When asked what fuels his creativity at this point in his life, Almojuela shares that being immersed in it for so long made him like a creative machine that churns out artwork easily.
His whole sky and art dreams almost collapsed when he was diagnosed in 2021 with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer that is common among young adolescents.
“This is one of the most heart-breaking parts because I had finished my studies with a degree to help my family and to give back what they have sacrificed for me but everything just fell into pieces because bone cancer hindered everything. But I had nothing to do but to be optimistic as I submit every step I take to the Lord as I deal with worries and anxiety,” said Almojuela.
He shared that he never really thought about what life would be like with cancer until he went into chemotherapy.
The cancer took his hair, leaving him perpetually nauseous and battling both anxiety and stress.
But what hit him the hardest was when the doctor told him he needed to get his leg amputated.
He struggled with the mental and physical anguish of having to live with a disability.
His health battles left him exhausted, but he became enthusiastic when working on his art and made sure his mini studio was a free and inviting space.
He also treats art as a safe space that helps him veer away from all sorts of negative thoughts and the physical conditions that affect him every day.
Almojuela reveals that his relentless pursuit of crafting a masterpiece stems from his realization that in his moments of idleness, negative thoughts come into his head that make him anxious and somewhat depressed.
After being diagnosed with cancer, he decided to completely turn away from depressive thoughts and embrace himself, including his flaws and brokenness.
Since then, he has been out with his senses and lives each day, seizing every moment like it’s his last.
Years later, he feels no more pain— as if the cancer is gone although it isn't.
“Because of this biggest lesson [cancer], I have learned to appreciate every single thing, even the least of it. As they say, those who have a disability have a constant dream, while those who normally bounce and kick have a lot of things to do,” said Almojuela.
It may have been a miracle.
But whatever it was, Almojuela is more determined to affirm himself more and continue making art to inspire the youth especially the young local artists through his multi-media platforms.
To conquer his fear of dealing with other people, he envisions joining some groups of local artists not only in the province but also in the whole region.
Sharon Villoria, a nurse at the La Union Provincial Health Office (PHO), highlights the support system available.
The PHO, along with Barangay Health Workers, assists patients like Almojuela.
Additionally, the Universal Health Care program's expanded services ensure better access to cancer care.
Nurse Villoria emphasizes the importance of primary care, offering preventative screenings and consultations.
Even amidst his ongoing battle, Almojuela finds solace in his creations.
He believes, with unwavering conviction, that art has the power to heal and transform both the artist and the viewer.
Almojuela's story is a testament to the human spirit's resilience, a beacon of hope for those facing their own storms. (JCR/AMB/KJCR, PIA La Union)
