Jorick Gutierrez Ducay: Weaving Light and Color into Contemporary Impressionism

In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art, few artists manage to merge tradition with innovation as seamlessly as Jorick Gutierrez Ducay. A modern impressionist painter with a distinct visual language, Ducay has carved a niche in the Philippine art scene by infusing his canvases with light, energy, and the intangible aura of his subjects.

Roots of an Artist

Born in Bacon, Sorsogon, and raised in Old Sta. Mesa, Manila, Jorick’s journey into art began in the most organic of ways—through curiosity and inspiration. At the age of eleven, he picked up a pencil and started sketching, inspired by Lolo Sandro, the grandfather of his childhood friend. Sandro was not only a painter but also a journalist, cyclist, and craftsman who created miniature bahay kubo from broomsticks. This early influence sparked Jorick’s lifelong devotion to the arts.

Interestingly, Jorick’s academic and professional path took a different turn. He graduated from the Philippine College of Criminology with a degree in Criminology, became a licensed criminologist, and later earned a Master of Professional Studies at CAVSU. He currently works in security service at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)—a role that may seem far from painting, but one that quietly complements the discipline, patience, and precision evident in his artistry.

From Hobby to Recognition

It was in 2019 that Jorick formally joined the BSP Art Club, an important milestone in his artistic journey. His participation in group exhibitions brought immediate success—many of his impressionist works were sold, earning him a following among collectors and enthusiasts.

Beyond BSP, Jorick is an active member of the Professional Art Restorers Society of the Philippines and Asia Inc., as well as the Philippine Art Ambassadors Lions Club of Lions International, extending his presence into broader art circles. His dedication to preservation and restoration deepened when he completed a Certification of Recognition in Painting and Paper Restoration and Conservation from SANFO 101 in June 2024, along with advanced training courses.

The Impressionist Identity

Jorick’s art is defined by what he calls his “overlapping hues and bouncing colors”—a signature style that sets his work apart. Unlike traditional impressionism that focuses largely on the interplay of light and shadow on the subject and background, Jorick extends his vision to the entire space around the scene. He paints not just the visible environment but also the invisible—a luminous aura reflected through color vibrations that surround and elevate his subjects.

> “Overlapping hues are bouncing colors all around the scene which contribute the aura of each masterpiece. This is my original trademark, a contemporary Impressionism.” – Jorick

His artistic philosophy is deeply influenced by Paul Cézanne, whose works explored shapes and colors, and Vincent van Gogh, celebrated for his bold lines and emotional depth. From these masters, Jorick draws both inspiration and courage to innovate while staying rooted in the essence of impressionism.

Contribution to Contemporary Impressionism

For Jorick, impressionism is not a closed chapter in art history but a living, evolving movement. His works push beyond convention, creating sensations that both ground and elevate viewers. He sees his contribution as humble yet meaningful:

> “The overlapping of bouncing colors in front of the subject and scene transfigured into aura that inspire and motivate others.”

This philosophy is evident in every canvas he creates—each one a dialogue between light and form, between tradition and experimentation.

Moving Forward

As he continues to balance his professional career and artistic passion, Jorick Gutierrez Ducay remains committed to refining his craft and contributing to the dialogue of modern impressionism. Through his unique approach, he honors the legacy of the masters while bringing a fresh Filipino perspective to a global art movement.

In his hands, impressionism is not just about capturing fleeting moments—it is about transforming light and color into something timeless, something that breathes life and aura into art itself.