Santhy Santiago makes a mark in the Middle East art community

Santhy Santiago pursued Fine Arts with a focus on Advertising Arts at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila. This program not only equipped him with essential skills in traditional artistic techniques but also emphasized the principles of visual communication and design. He grew up in an environment where comic books and newspapers were a significant part of his daily life, and selling them became one of his earliest sources of inspiration. Driven by his fascination with art, he embarked on a self-guided journey to learn how to draw human figures. He meticulously studied the illustrations and artwork in various comics and magazines, noting the details that brought characters to life on the page. He was particularly interested in how they used lines, shading, and color to evoke feelings and tell stories. In addition to his studies at home, he frequently visited the vibrant neighborhoods of Mabini and Ermita, areas renowned for their artistic communities. There, he encountered many talented artists who gathered to paint and create. He found great joy in watching these artists at work. Each visit deepened his appreciation for the craft. The artists who influenced him the most were Philippine National Artists Cesar Legaspi and Vicente Manansala. He greatly admired their mastery of form, composition, and storytelling in art. His artistic style, which blends modern cubism with figurative subjects, reflects the inspiration he drew from these two masters. Additionally, his family played a significant role in supporting his talent and encouraging him to pursue a formal education in Fine Arts. Looking back, he acknowledges that his inspiration came from various sources — observing other artists, studying illustrations, and his deep love for drawing from a very young age. More than any single artist, he has always drawn inspiration from the beauty of life, the people around him, and the belief that art is a gift from God. Santiago began his professional journey as a Graphic Artist in Makati. After gaining a solid foundation of experience in his role, he opted to explore new opportunities and broaden his horizons. This decision led him to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Working abroad not only enhanced Santiago’s professional skill set but also expanded his cultural understanding and artistic perspective. He was exposed to diverse artistic styles and techniques, enriching his design approach and significantly influencing his growth as both an artist and a designer. This invaluable experience set the stage for his future endeavors in the creative industry. Santiago is a proud member of several organizations, including the Art Association of the Philippines (AAP), the Artipolo Artist Group, and various artist communities in Abu Dhabi. Throughout his career, Santiago’s artworks have been showcased in numerous exhibitions across diverse venues, including Manila, Antipolo, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and several other locations. He believes every opportunity to display his work is more than just an exhibition; it is a moment to learn from other artists, engage with audiences, and deepen his understanding of his craft. Santiago received Best in Thematic Expression award during the 119th Philippine Independence Day Art Exhibition held in Abu Dhabi. Moreover, his entry titled “Heroes without Capes” gained recognition when it was shortlisted in the Waterfront Market Art Competition in November 2020. Achievements like these reinforce his dedication to art and inspire him to persist in his pursuits, even amidst the demands of his professional career. The Philippines will always be his cherished home. While he maintains meaningful connections with the international art community, his primary focus is to stay engaged with the Philippine art scene and actively contribute to its evolution and growth. In addition to his personal artistic development, he is passionate about nurturing the next generation of artists. He strives to inspire young creatives by sharing his experiences, insights, and knowledge, hoping to empower them to find their own voices in the art world. Ultimately, he wants to leave behind a substantial body of work that people can appreciate for generations to come. He firmly believes that art possesses an extraordinary ability to connect individuals and communities, transcending boundaries and fostering understanding.