Filipino-Canadian Marigold Santos is the first recipient of ART SG's FUTURES prize, an award presented to rising artists represented by young galleries. 

Marigold is primarily known for her tattoo artistry. It shows even in her artworks, where unique patterns can often be seen adorning the bodies of her subjects. Her pieces feel reminiscent of a pre-colonial Philippines, when tattoos were seen, not as taboo, but as a sign of one's accomplishments and beauty. It's almost hypnotic to look at, following each line and pattern to see where it takes the eyes. 

Her work, shared by Canadian gallery Patel Brown, is one of the many Southeast Asian artworks that were put in the spotlight after ART SG's inaugural collaboration with S.E.A. Focus, a homegrown platform dedicated to contemporary Southeast Asian art. Together, both initiatives presented over 100 exhibitors from more than 30 countries and territories. Over 43,000 visitors were estimated to have been present during the contemporary arts festival's run at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands. 

"The fourth edition of ART SG has surpassed our expectations, reflecting not only the strength of Singapore as a hub for contemporary art but also the vibrancy and diversity of Southeast Asia’s artistic landscape," shares ART SG co-founder Magnus Renfrew. "With the addition of S.E.A. Focus and dynamic exchanges with galleries, collectors, and institutions worldwide, we are excited by the fair’s growing role in connecting the region to the global art community. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to this edition and we remain committed to showcasing Southeast Asia’s dynamic artists to the world, while fostering a dialogue that brings galleries and art from Indo-Pacific and the rest of the world to the region."

The next iteration of ART SG will take place from Jan. 15 to 17, 2027. Marigold Santos maintains an active studio practice and resides in Treaty 7 Territory, at Mohkinstsis/Calgary, Canada.