I chose Dancing Mutants by Hernando R. Ocampo as the inspiration for my artwork because it is a powerful piece, illustrated with both chaos and beauty. The painting stood out to me due to its confusing yet intriguing shapes and muted colours, such as earthy green. Upon closer examination, figures of the actual “Dancing Mutants” emerge from the abstract forms.

As I researched further, I discovered the deeper meaning behind the painting—the devastating horrors of atomic bombs. Ocampo, a Filipino artist and a member of the Saturday Group of artists (also known as the Taza de Oro Group), created works influenced by the impact of World War II. I incorporated elements of World War II into my own painting, with the number 1939 representing the year the war began. Additionally, I included seaweed as a way to “hide” this reference, symbolising how many people prefer to forget about war, hoping history will not repeat itself.

I personally relate to this painting because the abstract shapes resemble puzzle pieces that have not yet been fitted together—much like my own life, which has yet to take a perfect shape. The underwater theme in my artwork also reflects the lasting effects of bombs, as their impact can extend into the water, creating tsunamis and other disasters.