Joen Sudlon’s third solo exhibit, “Siya,” is a collection of sculptures, works on paper, and paintings that invite viewers to contemplate the unseen forces that guide and connect us. The exhibit, which was launched after Easter, is a spiritual journey and a celebration of shared human experience.

The exhibit title itself, “Siya,” holds a deep personal meaning for Joen. As he explains, “Ang ‘siya,’ ay tumutukoy sa aking sarili, pamilya, mga mahal sa buhay at higit sa lahat, ang aking pananampalataya sa Diyos (‘Siya’ refers to myself, my family, loved ones, and most of all, my faith in God).” He chose the word “siya” because, “Ito ay isang salitang kumakatawan sa Maykapal batid ng mga sakripisyo gaya nating mga nabubuhay upang ialay ang sarili sa mga mahal sa buhay (This is one word that embodies God based on the sacrifices similar to those of us who live to serve ourselves to those we love).” It resonates with a higher power and the sacrifices inherent in living for loved ones.

A recurring and striking image throughout the exhibit is that of a figure carrying a boat. This is no mere artistic motif but a potent symbol of the Filipino spirit.

“Nagsisimbolo ito sa mga mamamayang Pilipino na kumakayod araw-araw sa ilalim ng araw sa kabila ng kanilang mga pasanin sa buhay. Patuloy pa rin silang nananampalataya ano mang unos ang dumating (This symbolizes Filipino citizens who hustle everyday under the sun despite their other burdens in life. They still continue to have faith no matter what storm comes),” Joen reveals. The boat, in this context, becomes an “ark of quiet obedience,” carrying not just travelers but also purpose.

Joen’s art transcends individual differences and fosters a sense of unity. The exhibit features a spectrum of faces, young and old, masculine and feminine, diverse in skin tone, to dissolve the boundaries that often separate us. His hope is that viewers will experience “pagkakaisa, pinagsasaluhang pag-asa sa kabila ng kanya-kanyang pasanin. Ang liwanag ng isa ay liwanag ng lahat (unity, filled with hope despite their hardships. The brightness of one is the brightness of all).” He envisions his work as a mirror, reflecting back to each person a shared humanity and the divine spark within.

The artist’s spiritual practice is deeply intertwined with his creative process. “Prayer and meditation helps me to know myself more, explore the meaning of life, observe the meaning of environment, and see how my family shapes my wellbeing. It connects in many ways,” Joen shares.

Preparing for “Siya” was not without its challenges. Joen describes the difficulty of achieving visual balance, ensuring that the exhibit wouldn’t feel overwhelming.

“Pinaka-challenge sa akin ay kung paano mababalanse visually na hindi mabigat sa feeling nung nakakakita, kaya naglagay ako ng black and white para malaro din sa mata, pati sizes pinaglaruan ko. (My biggest challenge was finding a visual balance so that the design wouldn’t feel heavy to viewers. That’s why I added black and white elements to play with contrast and also varied the sizes to guide the eye.).” This led to a personal revelation, “Siguro, ang revelation ko sa sarili ko for this exhibit is that faith is incomparable, ‘yung timbangan nasa mata lang ng tao. Pero para sa itaas, pantay-pantay tayong lahat, kaya ganon din kung paano ko tignan ang buhay: patas. Sa pagiging artist naman, mas natutunan kong kumayod pa, magpatuloy, at maging malaya. (Perhaps my biggest revelation from this exhibit is that faith is incomparable—how it's measured depends on each person's perspective. But in the eyes of a higher power, we are all equal. That’s how I choose to see life: with equality. As an artist, I’ve learned to hustle even harder, to keep moving forward, and to embrace freedom).”

Joen Sudlon’s “Siya” is a reflection on humanity’s shared journey, our faith, and the light that connects us all. It offers a message of hope and unity to all who will experience it.

“Siya” ran until May 10 at the Art Verite Gallery, Serendra, Taguig.