Denmark Maribojoc’s latest solo exhibit “As Light Whispers” at Art Underground was a collection of paintings that explored the complexities of womanhood and the subtle power of light. The artist used a variety of techniques, inspired by European masters like Caravaggio, to create paintings both beautiful and thought-provoking.

When asked about the inspiration behind the series, he says, “The exhibit was my gentle way of conveying and emphasizing the nature of messages that are often associated with enlightenment and wisdom. I enjoyed painting each stroke and detail. As the light suits it, each painting became more attractive and encouraging. I wanted to paint not just with colors but also with messages.” 

One recurring theme in Maribojoc’s paintings is the female gaze. The subjects often look directly at the viewer, their eyes filled with a range of emotions, from serenity to longing to defiance. 

In many of his paintings, the women are bathed in soft light, which illuminate their face and bodies while also casting shadows that create a sense of mystery and intrigue. 

Each painting creates a sense of depth and drama. The subjects are often placed against a dark background, which accentuate the light on their face and bodies. His deep connection to every piece is evident in the intricate details of each of his subject. The play of light and shadow make each piece all the more enchanting.   

“Women are the symbol of life. They represent the life-giving and caring aspects of humanity. They are strong and resilient individuals who can overcome challenges and adversity on their own. Before, women used to be seen as weak since their role was simply inside a house, but as time went by, women became appreciated by society and suddenly symbolized freedom and liberation. I wanted to convey a message of appreciation for women. They are the maker of unconditional love. I want to prove that they are both soft and powerful,” says Denmark.

His interest in the arts began in his youth, but it wasn’t until the pandemic that he truly focused on his craft. Painting started as a pastime for Denmark, a source of pure enjoyment, until he developed his commitment to learn. 

“I work at night,” he says. “I like the ambiance and the silence that make me feel more alive while doing my work. When the pandemic struck, I motivated myself to keep on learning about painting and it became more than my dream.”

For budding artists, Denmark’s advice is to “Just keep on practicing and exploring different mediums to discover your unique self-skill. Be patient with your work and believe in yourself. Remember also that art plays a role in society by reflecting and shaping cultural perspectives. It fosters creativity and critical thinking that enrich our lives and contribute to the social and intellectual development of the society.”

In “As Light Whispers,” Denmark’s paintings are not just a reminder of the beauty and strength of women but also an inspiration for viewers to see the world in a new light.

Art Underground is located at 2F Mabini180, 180 A. Mabini, Brgy. Additionl Hills, San Juan, Metro Manila. [email protected].