In many cultures, traditions and even some religions, the number 8 is significant and considered lucky. In Pythagorean numerology (a pseudoscience) the number 8 represents victory, prosperity and overcoming. The number 8 also means a continuous cycle and represents everything that makes up the universe which is infinite: love, time, and energy.
Additionally, the number 8 is a connecting number representing the link between the earthly and the divine worlds. It also represents completeness, wholeness, and perfection.
Edwin Wilwayco’s first “Octo Gravitas” exhibit which was held at 8 Rockwell back in 2017 was one of two successful back to back exhibits that the Galerie Joaquin Group presented for a huge crowd of collectors and friends. In this second iteration, “Octo Gravitas”, a mix of big and small pieces showcasing a vibrant explosion of colors brings the exhibit to full circle. The figure 8 again carefully balances the artist’s sense of control amidst the spontaneity of the abstractions playfully gracing the canvas. Wilwayco’s bold colors, as pronounced and articulate as ever, are highlighted in each piece giving the viewer a taste of the energy moving seamlessly in each individual piece and throughout the whole collection.
Born in Guimba, Nueva Ecija, he has earned his way into local and international success, elevating the respect from many artists and art-savants then and now. Wilwayco experienced his maiden brushstrokes at Continental School of Design Studies in Los Angeles, USA. He then continued to sharpen his skills at the University of the Philippines’ College of Fine Arts, majoring in Advertising Arts with a minor in Painting. There, he was under an exceptional faculty, among which he names Jose Joya and Constancio Bernardo as his influential mentors. As a student at the University of the Philippines, he was handpicked, along with Rock Drilon, Benjie Cabangis and Fred Liongoren, by National Artist Josí¨ Joya to assist in the making of the mural “Pagdiriwang” at the lobby of the Philippine International Convention Center. Being under their prime tutelage has immersed him into the beauty of abstractions colors.
Wilwayco’s fervent artistic effort then qualified him to be a scholar for the British Council in England in 1982, training under the curriculum of West Surrey College of Art and Design. In that same year, Wilwayco was also granted by the Italian government another scholarship for painting. Even in his career-building years, the way opportunities opened for Wilwayco was reflective of how skilled an artist he is. From his first Merit Award Shell on-the-spot painting contest in 1970, to being one the Thirteen Artists Awardees of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, to having prominent art laureates make books about his works, Wilwayco has produced a career of continuous artistic vigor. Now with 42 solo exhibitions (since 1973) and copious group exhibitions held in the Philippines, Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong, USA, France, Belgium, and Germany, Wilwayco’s talent has built abstract prefectures of rich and vibrant dribble and stunning compositions.
“Octo Gravitas” will run at Galerie Joaquin Podium from December 7-16, 2023. Galerie Joaquin Podium is located at the 3rd Level, The Podium, ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City.
