From his colorful “Rhapsody in Abstraction” to the dynamic “Bellavia” and the innovative “Soundscapes in Shape,” alongside a revisit to his iconic “Jeepney Unicus” series, Edwin Wilwayco’s unmistakable signature, a “symphony of bold, layered colors, and masterful strokes,” remains ever apparent in his recent exhibit “Edwin Wilwayco Now.”

“It was not a planned thing,” he shared. “But instead of waiting for three or four years to show these series, I decided and Galerie Joaquin agreed that it’s best to showcase the series created in 2023 to the present.”

The curation of such a diverse collection and never-before-seen pieces created between 2023 and 2025 presented its challenges. “It was selecting the best pieces from each series,” he admitted. The curation played an important part, which was handled by the gallery with their expertise.”

For Edwin, each painting was a personal endeavor. “Each painting selected from the series bears a piece of myself, my mind, heart, and soul,” he stated. “I always ensured that my presence is evident in every piece. I don’t treat my painting like a roll of textile. The painting needs to resonate with me. Each of the series has their own character which I’m fond of. It’s like listening to music of different interpretations.”

His creative process is rooted in a disciplined approach. “I always start my creative process by praying for guidance,” he revealed. “I paint when I’m positive and in control. I want my palettes arranged in order since I’m an organized painter. Preparing a painting can be tedious so I want my surroundings to be pleasant and neat.

Having held over 42 solo exhibits since 1973, Edwin has undeniably cemented his place as a pivotal figure in Philippine art. “I’m more daring now, my style has changed, and it is always evolving,” he stated.

Born in Guimba, Nueva Ecija, Edwin’s journey through art started at the Continental Design Studies in Los Angeles, US, and further honed at the University of the Philippines’ College of Fine Arts, where he majored in Advertising Arts with a minor in Painting. He credits mentors like National Artist Jose Joya and Constancio Bernardo for instilling in him the beauty of abstract colors. His early career was marked by significant recognition, including being a British Council scholar in England and receiving an Italian government scholarship for painting in the same year, 1982.

“Edwin Wilwayco Now” ran until July 18 at Galerie Joaquin Rockwell, R3 Level 3 of Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati.