I hold a deep admiration for Edward Hopper's ability to evoke mood, tension, and mystery in his paintings. In my own work, exemplified by "Cycles Bikes & Bins," I deliberately portray an urban landscape devoid of human presence. This intentional absence serves to amplify the sense of emptiness and solitude that often permeates the bustling environment of a city street. Paradoxically, amid this isolation, I choose to illuminate motorcycles, bicycles, and newspaper stands with vibrant, saturated colors, bathed in serene and diffused lighting.

Through this juxtaposition, I aim to convey a philosophical underpinning inspired by Zen nothingness and the Buddhist concept of the ever-present moment. The deliberate choice of vivid hues and the interplay of light on these inanimate objects create a visual narrative that goes beyond the surface, inviting viewers to reflect on the inherent tranquility within the urban hustle—a contemplative pause amidst the apparent emptiness.

Joey P. Mánlapaz

Joey P. Mánlapaz