IJWBAA [eej-wah] is a Filipino digital artist and the first Filipino recognized in the Techspressionism movement. He is a neologist and the originator of Decolonial Minimalism—an art movement that reclaims minimalism through ancestral memory and cultural reawakening. His works, compiled in two volumes of I Just Wannabe an Artist, have been recognized, officially archived, cataloged, and made available in the collections of the Gallerie degli Uffizi, Museo Reina Sofía, the National Museum of the Philippines, Getty Research Institute, and other prominent cultural institutions worldwide.

Two Sides of the Canvas: A Poem by Filipino Digital Artist IJWBAA

a poem by IJWBAA | Sept 30, 2024


Fame shows two faces, both bright and dim—

One in the light, where dreams take wing,

The other veiled, soft and slim,

Hides quiet aches that praise can't bring.


One side shines with golden grace,

Adored by crowds, in songs it beams;

The other waits in a quiet place,

And wonders if fame fulfills its dreams.


For under glory, the soul’s fight lies—

To find true worth, beyond acclaim,

To rise above the fleeting highs,

And seek a voice untouched by fame.


True art lives where no one sees,

In joys and pains that beauty frees.

A Little Note: "Two Sides of the Canvas" explores the duality of fame, portraying its brilliance and hidden burdens through the contrast of light and shadow. IJWBAA reflects on the exhilaration of public recognition alongside the quiet doubts that linger behind the scenes. While one side of fame basks in admiration, the other questions whether success truly fulfills an artist’s dreams. The poem ultimately suggests that true art transcends acclaim, thriving in both joy and struggle, unseen yet profoundly authentic. It conveys a mix of admiration for success and a yearning for deeper creative purpose, resonating with artists who seek meaning beyond recognition.

SO, WHAT'S NEXT?

Hi, I'm Pao aka IJWBAA. I'm a digital artist, painter, and a book author from the Philippines. If you enjoyed reading this you might like to read also:

• The Digital Artist Digest

• Poems by IJWBAA

• Quotes from a Wannabe Artist

• Notes to Self

I would greatly appreciate if you could kindly share this to people whom you know will be interested to read this through social media, email, text, or message.

Thank you.