PASSERBY

Passerby | Gravity Art Space | October 13 - November 12, 2023

Amid life's relentless challenges, Regina Reyes seeks solace in the unadulterated authenticity of nature, drawing parallels between the branching patterns of trees and the connections that bind us together.

This interconnection is vividly portrayed through the intricate network of branches and roots, serving as a reminder of the myriad relationships we cultivate and the enduring impressions we leave behind.

In the eloquent words of R.W. Hepburn, whose essay "Contemporary Aesthetics and the Neglect of Natural Beauty" subtly influences Reyes's contemplative work, we find the essence of her journey:

"The neglect of natural beauty is, above all, a neglect of the aesthetics of authenticity."

Hepburn's insights profoundly resonate with Reyes's artistic exploration. Nature, for her, represents the very embodiment of authenticity-a sanctuary where the human soul can shed its burdens and exist in its purest form. Through the act of bearing witness to nature's beauty and capturing its fleeting moments, Reyes employs a potent metaphor that encapsulates the core of human existence. In "Passerby," Reyes extends an invitation to pause and contemplate our interaction with the natural world. Nature becomes both a mirror reflecting our authentic selves and a canvas upon which we inscribe our passage through time. Through her lens, we come to realize that, by embracing the authentic beauty of nature, we are also embracing the authenticity within ourselves.

Reyes's art encourages us to rekindle our connection with nature, fostering an appreciation for its enduring authenticity and offering a source of solace and self-discovery. As we navigate the turbulent waters of contemporary existence, "Passerby" serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring bond between humanity and the natural world-a bond that remains unwavering in a constantly changing world.

Notes by John Paul Diciembre