by Benjie de Ubago

Immerse yourself in art and culture at Marikit Santiago’s first major solo exhibition, “Proclaim Your Death” at Campbelltown Art s Centre, Campbelltown. This superb exhibit is open until 16 March, 2025.

Filipina-Australian, Marikit Santiago’s artworks and installations are rich in imagery and symbolism. Through her creative works, she weaves themes of tradition, family values, history and religion. Using her own children and family as her models, she explores her own motherhood experience and her conflicting cultural identity.

Marikit is a three-time Archibald finalist and in 2024 received the La Prairie Art award from the Art Gallery of NSW which championed women artists. In 2020 she won the Sir John Sulman award. Last year, her work was featured at the Liverpool Library exhibit.  “Thank you for sharing our culture,” said Marikit.

In addition to her paintings, there is a full installation of an altar reflecting our Catholic traditions  and a video on a continuous loop showing her daily interaction with her family – sneak glimpse of Filipino culture. Her ‘Alter Altar’ section invites the public to experience art and try their hand at painting their own portraits.

Equally fascinating is Mari kit’s use of cardboard and other recycled material as her contribution to the environment.

“My work is forged by, with, and for my children. My practice is informed by my experiences as a motherland my artistic processes are dictated by this maternal role.” said Marikit

As we celebrate women’s month in March, Marikit Santiago exhibition is a must see and It’s on display at the Campbelltown Arts Centre for everyone to witness and experience for the whole month of February until the 16 March, 2025.

25 February 2025