This year, in the heart of Sydney’s Art Gallery of New South Wales, the La Prairie Art Award has found its deserving champion in Marikit Santiago, a Filipina-Australian artist whose work transcends mere canvas and paint to embody a profound narrative of family, migration, and the intimate beauty found in everyday moments.
The La Prairie Art Award, borne from a visionary partnership between AGNSW and the prestigious Swiss luxury skincare brand La Prairie, serves as a beacon for Australian women artists, offering not only recognition but a transformative journey. For Marikit Santiago, this accolade represents a culmination of dedication and artistic vision that has spanned years of exploration and introspection.
Before claiming this prestigious award, Marikit’s talent had already garnered attention. She stood as a finalist for the revered Archibald Prize multiple times and clinched the Sir John Sulman Prize in 2020, a testament to her evolving mastery of the painter’s craft. Her works, now prominently featured in the ‘Making Worlds’ exhibition, exude a tender yet resolute spirit, aiming to soften life’s harsh edges by portraying what truly sustains us—our loved ones.
Central to Marikit’s artistry are her two captivating pieces, “A Seat at the Table (Magulang)” and “A Seat at the Table (Kapatid)”. These works not only showcase her technical prowess with materials like cardboard, oil paints, gold leaf, and markers but also invite viewers into the sanctum of her family life. “A Seat at the Table (Magulang)” reverently portrays her parents, capturing the intricate dynamics of generations gathered around a dining table—an homage to familial ties and the unspoken stories that bind us. In contrast, “A Seat at the Table (Kapatid)” offers a more introspective narrative, with Marikit and her sister depicted alongside symbolic elements like a python and narcissus daisies, exploring themes of temptation and self-discovery.
Marikit’s creative process is deeply intertwined with her personal journey as a migrant and a mother. Her children often contribute to her works, leaving their marks and sharing credit as collaborators—an act that not only enriches her art but underscores the significance of family in her creative endeavours. Through her art, Marikit bridges the gap between cultures and generations, offering a poignant reflection on the shared experiences of migrants and their descendants in Australia.
Reflecting on her artistic journey, Marikit humbly acknowledges the challenges and sacrifices that precede public acclaim. “The life of an artist is veiled by the glamour of public celebrations,” she muses, “but it is the solitary hours in the studio, the self-doubt, and the quiet anguish that truly define this path.”
For Marikit, the La Prairie Art Award represents more than just recognition of her talent; it validates her identity and underscores art’s transformative power to inspire change and challenge perceptions. “Art reveals our true selves,” she asserts, “and for someone like me, this recognition holds immense significance.”
La Prairie, renowned for its unwavering support of the arts globally, has consistently championed daring women artists through initiatives like the La Prairie Art Award. By partnering with cultural icons such as Art Basel and supporting institutions like MoMa PS1 and Centre Pompidou, La Prairie reaffirms its commitment to fostering creativity and innovation across borders.
As visitors continue to be captivated by Marikit Santiago’s compelling artworks in the ‘Making Worlds’ exhibition, they are invited to delve into the intricate tapestry of her artistic vision until July 28, 2024. Her art, characterised by deep empathy and cultural resonance, poignantly reflects the enduring strength of familial bonds and the universal language of creativity.
In celebrating Marikit Santiago’s journey—from a finalist in prestigious awards to a beacon of artistic excellence—we celebrate not only her individual triumphs but also the enduring spirit of creativity that enriches our cultural landscape. Through her art, Marikit invites us all to ponder the threads that connect us, the stories that define us, and the beauty that sustains us in an ever-changing world.