Time and again, Filipino creatives and artists have showcased their talents to the world, from award-winning films and dance moves to visual arts such as paintings. As the days pass, these Filipino talents are crossing borders to share their messages and stories. One such talent is Sean Go.
Sean, a Filipino pop appropriation artist, is known for his vibrant and thought-provoking works featuring Disney and comic characters to explore social issues such as religion, innocence, and corruption.
At just 31 years old, he has already held multiple shows locally and internationally. This year, the accomplished artist—who holds an impressive eight educational degrees (five master’s and three bachelor’s, including a Master of Arts in Fashion from Parsons School of Design and a Master of Science from Columbia University’s School of Architecture)—is adding another achievement to his portfolio with an upcoming exhibition in Paris, France.
To get to know Sean better, Style Weekend sat down with the artist to discuss his creative process, his upcoming show, and the wisdom he wishes to share with young aspiring artists.
Could you tell us a bit about your artistic journey?
My journey as an artist began with a fascination for storytelling. Even as a kid, I was drawn to comics, animation, and the way these mediums brought fantastical characters to life. My father would read the Bible to us, along with books and stories from Aesop’s Fables. That early love for narrative naturally translated into a desire to create my own worlds and characters.
Initially, I was captivated by the raw energy and immediacy of street art. Artists like Basquiat, with his bold lines and expressive figures, deeply resonated with me. There’s a fearlessness in that style—a rejection of traditional constraints—that I found incredibly liberating. At the same time, I admire the whimsical and aspirational art of artists like Jeff Koons and Takashi Murakami, both of whom exaggerate societal tendencies and obsessions to the point of absurdity.
How do you find inspiration for your art?
It’s funny, inspiration can strike in the most unexpected places. Sure, I get inspired by the big things—amazing art, powerful stories, important events. But sometimes, it's the small things that really get my creative juices flowing.
I’m talking about those moments of pure excellence when someone is entirely in their element, operating at the highest level. It could be anything, really. Watching a chef effortlessly peel a mountain of potatoes, each strip perfectly thin and even. Or seeing a street performer captivating a crowd with their incredible skill, whether it’s juggling, breakdancing, or playing music.
What can you tell us about your upcoming show in Paris? And what can viewers expect to see?
My work for this show, “We Are the Angels in Marble,” delves into the rich and often contradictory nature of angels, drawing inspiration from the diverse depictions found in biblical texts.
While often associated with purity and divine grace, angels can also embody forces of awe-inspiring power and destruction. My paintings explore this spectrum of angelic forms, capturing their ethereal beauty while acknowledging their capacity for both benevolence and wrath.
Some works celebrate the familiar image of angels as messengers of hope and guidance, their wings outstretched in gestures of protection and comfort. Others delve into the darker aspects of angelic lore, depicting warrior angels and fallen figures—reminders of rebellion and the consequences of straying from divine purpose.
Ultimately, this show is an exploration of humanity’s desire to connect with the spiritual, to seek guidance and meaning in a world often filled with uncertainty. It reminds us that the pursuit of our aspirations can be both a source of strength and a test of resilience. Even in adversity, we can find inspiration in the stories of these celestial beings.
What message or emotion do you hope to convey to viewers through this exhibition?
With “We Are the Angels in Marble,” I hope to evoke a sense of hope and possibility. I want people to leave the exhibition feeling empowered, with a renewed belief in themselves and their potential.
We live in a chaotic and overwhelming world, filled with negativity and pressures to conform. I want my art to offer a counterpoint, reminding people of the inherent beauty and strength within each of us.
Above all, I aim to inspire wonder and possibility. I want viewers to see themselves reflected in those marble figures and recognize their potential for transformation and transcendence. I want them to embrace their unique journey, chase their dreams, and become the angels they were always meant to be.
What tips can you give to young aspiring artists who also dream of making it big in this field?
Don’t be afraid to experiment: Try everything! Play with different mediums, styles, and techniques. Don’t get stuck in one way of doing things. Sometimes, the happiest accidents lead to the most interesting results.
Find inspiration everywhere: Keep your eyes open and your mind curious. Inspiration can come from nature, music, books, movies, conversations, and even your dreams. Draw from your own experiences and emotions.
Don’t give up: The artistic journey can be challenging, and there will be discouraging moments. But persevere. Believe in yourself and your vision. Surround yourself with supportive people, find inspiring mentors, and keep pushing yourself to grow.
"We Are the Angels in Marble" will run from Feb. 6 to 16, 2025, at Pab Aguiar Bianco Paris, France.
Hello, readers! Do you have a story you want us to feature? You can—reach us via [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok.