elman padilla
designer / photographer / educator

“Hairlines” — A minimal line study exploring fluid contours and organic form. Warm, layered watercolor tones evoke movement and emotion.

“Opening” — A surreal study in vulnerability and perception. 

“Growing” — A visual meditation on organic structure and silent transformation. Lines branch into possibility, and quiet expansion.

“Not Weak” — A minimalist portrait that resists fragility.

“Young Woman Study” — Delicate  gestures capturing the quiet confidence of youth.

“Friendly Bottles” — Everyday objects playful composition suggesting a quiet conversation among companions.

“Left Hand” — A detailed pen-and-ink hatching study capturing the tactile relationship between hand and object. 

“Clown” — A playful exploration of expression using watercolor gradients and soft outlines. 

“Human Contrast” — A minimalistic exploration of gender identity through abstract symbolism. The pairing contrasts male and female features using bold, crosshatched ink textures, inviting reflection on duality and perception.

“Celebration” — A loose ribbon sketch infused with vibrant watercolor. Movement and color express a quiet joy.

“Eschatology” — A visual meditation on final things: the heavens stir as creation awaits revelation.

Son of Man

“...He wasn’t some handsome king.
Nothing about the way he looked
made him attractive to us.”

Isaiah 53:2

"Friend in Anguish"

A loyal companion caught in a moment of silent pain.

"Early Love"

A tender fusion of symbols.

"Earthly Love"

A tender exchange captured in warmth and gesture.

Using Format