What would Neo Manila look like? Abel Arce has some ideas on the subject. The digital artist from Quezon City, also known as Polygonatic, has been working on a series of images that depict a dystopian future full of bright lights, big logos, and lots of carnage.
These intricate digital paintings are part of a larger body of work depicting dark science fiction scenery. For nearly two years he would create a daily piece as he learned his way around the C4D modeling and animation program. Dense cityscapes paired with noisy textures are colored in glowing lights. Foggy rural settings are imbued with tension and mystery. Filipino corporate branding looms large alongside Japanese signage. We pulled out the pieces referencing Pinoy stuff, like SOGO, Jolibees, the Philippines flag, and common types of local structures because… well, because they’re fire and you should be aware of them. Enjoy!
