PieR Gajewski’s No Code exhibition captures his personal exploration of Manila, where he draws inspiration from the city’s contrasting social environments. Using a mixture of black ink and watercolor, Gajewski portrays the divide between rich and poor districts, reflecting on their different structures and atmospheres. The detailed black lines represent the complexity and ingenuity found in poorer areas, while the soft watercolors depict the modern and impersonal architecture of wealthier regions.

The exhibition, titled after Pearl Jam’s 1996 album No Code, reflects Gajewski’s experience as an outsider in Manila, a city vastly different from his hometown in France. His drawings invite viewers to glimpse the city through his eyes. Alongside the visual artworks, the exhibit includes a video showcasing his sketching process, offering insight into how he takes inspiration from Manila’s architecture and landscape. Pages from Gajewski’s personal diary are also on display, further revealing his reflections on the city and his artistic journey.

This exhibition is part of Gajewski’s residency in Manila, organized by the Alliance Française de Manille (AFM) through its Philippine Artist Residency Program (PARP). AFM, a leading cultural institution in the Philippines since 1920, promotes exchanges between French and Filipino artists. The PARP fosters these artistic collaborations, providing financial support and creative opportunities. In line with their cultural partnership with French and Filipino institutions, AFM continues to support exchanges that deepen connections between art communities across the two countries. Gajewski’s residency is a testament to this mission, blending his French perspective with the vibrant Filipino landscape.