Cupcake and Needles
signed and dated 2015 (lower right)
oil on canvas
18" x 24" (46 cm x 61 cm)

PROVENANCE:Private Collection, Manila


The works of contemporary artist Marc Aran Reyes often utilize his distinctive monochromatic palette. Thus, there is always a palpable sense of tension within Reyes’ works that spring forth from the elements and even the very execution of his craft. Despite the contrasting values, Reyes’ deft hand and mastery of his craft always manages to seamlessly synthesize these polar opposite. But beyond the formal aspects of his work, Reyes also presents us with thematics that emphasize his approach. In this particular work, Reyes features objects that, like his approach, are opposed to each other. In the piece, we see a pair of scissors jammed into a cupcake that is also dotted with nails. This can be seen as an almost tongue- and-cheek reflection of Reyes’ artistic practice, one that seeks to bring together two contrasting ideals. (J.D.)