Through Blurred Visions Came Clarity

Words Tedrick Yau
Photos courtesy of RiseSpace Art Gallery
February 11, 2025

Erwin Canlas at his first solo exhibition “I Think I Need New Glasses”

A bold attempt to reimagine his identity, Erwin Canlas’ first solo exhibition defines his vision and capabilities in his own right.

On display at RiseSpace Art Gallery in Comuna, Makati until February 20, 2025, “I Think I Need New Glasses” focuses on the blurry and abandons true form. It liberates the vision from the constraints of usual photographic control. Devoid of the crisp precision in his commercial and fashion photography, Canlas’ distorted collages take shape as abstractions, with haziness standing in quiet rebellion against the polished clarity of his professional craft. There is a contrast and conversation between the calculated frames of his career and unbound vision of his art. Through this surrender to imperfection, Canlas invites us to look closer, to question clarity itself, and to consider what it means to truly see.

Installation view of Erwin Canlas’ exhibit at RiseSpace Art Gallery

Canlas pursued his passion, studying photography at the University of the Arts London – Central Saint Martins. Eventually, he established himself in the industry as a respected fashion and commercial photographer. Defined by clean yet unconventional imagery, he reflects a deep engagement with the aesthetics of youth and freedom. Still, even with his own recognitions, he was plagued with imposter syndrome, doubting his capacities while hoping to be recognized as an artist.

Belonging to a family of artists, it weighed on him that his father and sister already recognized themselves as artists, using paint as their medium. Wanting to make an artistic mark for himself, he explained that he wanted to put on new glasses to change his perspectives. Artistry and skills merged and he was able to express his style.

The concept took a year to polish. Sharing his process, he stated, “Personally, I needed the idea to make sense first before the actual production or shoot happens. After that, it took me about a month and a half to create the pieces.”

He first cut pieces of colored paper to make collages. To achieve the blending effect and gradation, he unfocuses the camera to intentionally blur out the images. Striking hues are quite a departure from his usual monochromatic mood and aesthetic.

Explaining the pieces, he shares, “This is the antithesis of my work. I wanted people to see something different, a different side to what I’m usually known for. So when people enter the art space, I want them to be overwhelmed with color and vibrance.”

The pops of colors was a kaleidoscope of manifestations. Emotions were brought to paper, producing the diverse state of stress, anger, peace, elation, hope, love, and contentment that have built inside of him. It all conveyed the feelings that he wishes his audience would see and feel while observing his works.

Through this, he overcomes uncertainties by blurring all subjects and sensibilities, forming a clearer narrative to his longings and aspirations.