Accompanied by a certificate signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot

ABOUT THE WORK

Rodel Tapaya’s practice offers a vivid reimagining of Filipino cultural history, transforming ancient narratives into compelling commentaries on modern issues. His paintings draw from folklore and mythology, populating canvases with figures that serve as symbolic links between the past and present. Tapaya skillfully uses these mythic archetypes to explore contemporary themes, layering his work with both beauty and tension. In this piece titled Happy Wheel, we are presented with a richly textured and layered work that exemplifies his dynamic approach to storytelling through symbolism and abstraction. In this portrait-oriented work, a chaotic assembly of shapes, eyes, hands, and wheels interweaves with one another, creating a frenetic tableau that appears both organic and mechanical. The varied elements seem to represent fragments of life and industry, reflecting Tapaya’s interest in the intersection of human experience and societal structures. The prominent wheel motif, paired with pipes and disembodied eyes, suggests movement, surveillance, and perhaps the cyclical nature of life and labor. Tapaya’s mastery in blending abstract forms with figurative hints allows him to create a surreal, dreamlike composition that engages viewers in a search for meaning. Like much of his oeuvre, Happy Wheel functions as both a visual puzzle and a commentary on the complexities of modern existence, inviting us to delve into the layers of cultural, historical, and social narratives embedded in his work. (Jed Daya)