In a world bustling with constant movement and relentless pursuits, artist Edwin Martinez invites us to pause, reflect, and embrace the nuances of the human experience through his thought-provoking exhibit. “An Abstract Voyage,” Martinez’s collection of contemporary visual art presents a captivating narrative that revolves around the themes of failure, rest, and eventual redemption.

“This exhibit intends to depict the cycle of failure, rest, and eventual redemption. As human beings, we forget that rest is an essential part of learning from our failures, (when we) often punch back and try to get up as soon as we fall without even thinking about what we’re going to do once we stand up. We have to compartmentalize, and contemplate our experiences. This is why a period for rest is necessary in my view,” explains Martinez.

The exhibit features astronauts as symbolic representations of the human journey, encompassing both failure and resilience. “Like an astronaut traveling in uncertain missions and space, our journey in life provides us with both excitement and dread. Once you are prepared, however, you will face it without hesitation and with unwavering courage. Soon after, success and progress become certain,” he says.

Martinez’s inspiration to delve into themes of failure, rest, and redemption stems from his personal experiences and struggles. “Almost all of my exhibits are about my personal and life struggles. I treat my paintings as a personal diary,” he says. “In this way, when I finish a painting, it’s like something inside of me is released, and I feel a sense of comfort.”

The artist hopes that viewers will internalize the profound messages embedded within his art. He emphasizes that struggles and challenges are pivotal aspects of the human journey, providing us with purpose and direction. “Without struggle, a feeling of emptiness or a lack of purpose ensues, no longer having something to strive for or a goal to pursue. Often, it tethers us to reality and to being human, shifting our bodies within the wider expanse of space. Comfort is good, yet it is discomfort that coaxes us to propel ourselves forward,” says Martinez. From a young age, his love for art has ignited in him a passion that eventually led him to pursue a career as a contemporary visual artist. Reflecting on his journey, he gives aspiring artists a piece of advice; “First, your reason should really be the love for art. It’s like a neverending journey because when you’re an artist, if you genuinely enjoy what you’re doing, even if it’s tiring, you find happiness in it.”

Martinez's art doesn’t merely exist for aesthetic appreciation. It also contributes to broader conversations about mental and emotional wellbeing. In a world where pursuit of success often overshadows the value of rest and introspection, Martinez’s work serves as a reminder that the human journey comes with failures, rest, and redemption. Through his art, he invites us to embrace the process and find solace in the rhythm of life’s ups and downs.

“This entire exhibit serves as a reminder that failure is not always negative. Let’s recognize and accept this. Falling isn’t something to be afraid of. What matters is that you survive after the fall. You gather yourself up and you prepare for what life has in store for you. Art tells stories. The story in this exhibit is telling people that they are not alone in their struggles. And from other people’s stories, with hope, we learn something,” he ends.

“An Abstract Voyage” runs until Aug. 26 at Art Cube Gallery, OPVI Centre, 2295 Chino Roces Extn., Makati City