Kalatus I, 30" x 30"

Oil on Canvas.

“This piece is part of my series called Kalatus where I draw upon the serenity I felt when I learned how to appreciate imperfections. The little pops of color are those moments of joy and gratitude when you catch yourself being in a state of peace. Exploring the intricate folds and creases and the nuances in these forms is a meditation and a dream.

My paintings are about accepting and appreciating imperfections. Inspired by my experiences in the darkest times of my life, these paintings are my way of redefining my narrative and finding positivity in prior trauma, anguish, mistakes, and regrets. As the creases and folds give shape and character to a plain piece of paper, so does our past make us the interesting, strong and unique individuals that we are today. Every scar and wrinkle we have is but a sign of lived experiences and growth. In spite of these creases and folds, or perhaps because of them, we can find beauty in a simple piece of crumpled paper. And to see this beauty, we have only to look at them in a different light."

Ian Castaneda is a Filipino artist based in Toronto. He explores different styles and materials in his portrayal of the human figure and his signature subject: paper. Using oil paint to render the patterns formed by the wrinkles and creases, he gives life to the varied figures he finds within a piece of paper. The abstract quality of the folds allows a myriad of themes to unfold before the viewer's eyes.