Sid Natividad

Philippines

Sid Natividad is a Filipino contemporary artist renowned for his photorealistic paintings that depict a world submerged in water. Through his work, he listens to and reflects on the intricate dialogues between humanity and nature. The metaphor and symbolism of the sea are central to his practice, as he explores the paradoxical nature of water—its capacity for both serenity and turbulence, benevolence and violence, life and destruction.

Natividad’s art delves into themes of memory, identity, and impermanence, often portraying figures and scenes immersed in fluid compositions that echo the fragility and resilience of life. His solo exhibition, Of Ebbs and Echoes, presented by Ysobel Gallery at Art Taipei 2024, exemplifies his unique approach to storytelling through the lens of water.

His work will also be featured in Constellations: Global Reflections, H2O Edition, showcasing his profound exploration of water’s dualities and impact on our shared human experience.

With his evocative use of symbolism and technical mastery, Sid Natividad continues to push the boundaries of contemporary art, captivating audiences with visually stunning and deeply thought-provoking works.

Uncertain but Unshaken is a reflection of the enduring spirit of resilience, particularly inspired by the Filipino experience in the face of environmental crisis such as rising sea levels and catastrophic floods.

I depict a figure submerged and pounded by relentless ocean waves, symbolizing the struggles faced by Filipinos amid environmental crises. The Philippines, being one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, regularly faces the harsh realities of these natural disasters.

Despite the challenges, the figure remains resilient, just as Filipinos continue to stand strong in the face of adversity. This painting reflects their spirit unshaken by floods, typhoons, and rising seas, always finding ways to adapt and move forward.

Through this piece, I aim to highlight the resilience of those living on the frontlines of climate change and encourage a deeper conversation about the need for environmental protection and action. The rising waters in the painting serve as a reminder of the urgency of our situation and the strength required to endure it.

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