"This work seeks to unravel the complex relationship between pleasure and spirituality, illuminating how both realms engage with our deepest desires and fears. In the vibrant atmosphere of celebration, we find liberation; the weight of everyday life lifts, allowing us to immerse ourselves in moments of ecstasy. Yet, beneath this surface joy lies a profound search for connection, meaning, and transcendence—much like the rituals inherent in religious practices.
The interplay between pleasure and spirituality invites viewers to reflect on the dual nature of our existence: the pursuit of pleasure alongside a longing for spiritual grounding. Can the act of revelry serve as a form of worship? Is there divinity in our quest for happiness? My paintings encourage a dialogue about how we navigate these seemingly opposing forces, transforming ephemeral moments into sacred experiences.
Light plays a crucial role in this exploration. It serves as both a literal and metaphorical beacon, illuminating our desires and casting shadows on our fears. In my work, light becomes a transformative element, guiding the viewer through the intricate dance of celebration and reflection. It highlights the fleeting beauty of nightlife, while also suggesting a deeper illumination, a call to recognize the sacred within the mundane. The act of celebrating can be seen as a ritual where the boundaries of the self dissolve, creating profound communal experiences."
About the Artist
Born in the Philippines but raised on Oahu from a young age, Eduardo Joaquin is a contemporary figurative painter who’s works explore multicultural themes of identity, tradition, and folklore. Joaquin’s work is characterized by the physicality of the oil paint medium, the organic character of his mark making, and the evocative capacity of color. He received his BFA in Painting in 2023 from UH Manoa and is currently working out of Honolulu. Joaquin has received numerous awards and scholarships during his time at UH such as the John Young Scholarship, Jean Charlot Award, Rush Memorial Award and the Geraldine P. Clark Fellowship. Joaquin has exhibited works at Downtown Art Center, Koa Gallery, ARS Cafe, Maui Arts and Culture Center, among others. His work has been acquired by the SFCA and has been published in the Star Advertiser and Midweek. He recently completed a residency at BoxJelly where his body of work utilized portraiture to reflect upon artmaking within our community.
