Where the Shadows Feed
20″ x 30″
This piece reflects on the aswang, a pervasive figure in Philippine mythology, and its resonance with the emerging powers that shape contemporary life in the Philippines. As I watch the political landscape unfold, I am often overwhelmed by how deeply corruption permeates daily existence. It feels elusive, impossible to grasp, and yet ever-present cultivating a sense of hopelessness and powerlessness that weighs heavily on the collective spirit. Witnessing this quiet, persistent helplessness is profoundly saddening. Abstraction is the only way I can express this.
In this work, the aswang becomes a metaphor for the abstract yet oppressive forces that loom over Filipinos today. These unseen powers infiltrate and distort the rhythms of everyday life, causing turmoil in ways that are both subtle and deeply felt. The piece visualizes this monstrous corruption—its pain, its reach, and its refusal to be contained or resolved. Through this singular form, I aim to give shape to what so often remains intangible, inviting viewers to confront the shadowed realities that haunt the nation’s lived experience.
Ligaya Domingo
Ligaya Domingo is a multidisciplinary artist born and raised in the Philippines and now based in Calgary. Working across painting, performance, video, and photography, she continually pushes the boundaries of form and medium. This expansive practice gives her a distinct, layered perspective one that invites introspection and challenges entrenched social norms.
A committed advocate for social justice, Ligaya was part of art collectives and NGOs in the Philippines, using her creative practice as a vehicle for change. Her work often reflects her dedication to women’s rights and gender equality, seeking to spark dialogue.
She is currently focused on an intimate exploration of connection and the idea of home. As an immigrant, she navigates the complexities of displacement, belonging, and cultural memory. Through her art, she documents this evolving journey, contemplating what remains of her roots while encouraging others to embrace the depth and diversity of their own identities.
