This is Mang Edgardo Lam. An ordinary painter from a small city in Manila. He is known for his colorful and lively paintings along M.H Del Pilar street. However, behind his talented hands and imaginative mind, unbeknownst to many passersby, the sidewalk that serves as his studio is also his home. An abandoned building in front of a busy street witnessed Mang Edgardo’s life deprived of basic need. This is where he displays his artworks and sell them to make ends meet. Every day, he sits in his old broken chair while holding his brush, ready to bring his imaginations to life, but constantly weary to face the adversities he’ll encounter. Because in this bustling street, where he paints, eats, and sleeps, he is a just a “starving artist” that people pass by. At night, while many are getting ready to go home in their comfortable shelters, Mang Edgardo lays down a thin cloth on his cardboard. Because after a long day of painting and facing the hardships of life, a hard floor, and a cold breeze is what awaits him. “Sometimes, before I go to sleep, I look at my paintings and I feel a little better,” he said. Mang Edgardo’s artworks served as his escape in the harsh world that he lives in. As he goes to sleep, may his dreams be as colorful as his painting. May he hold his brush with conviction, ready to face the world head-on, as tomorrow will be another day.