It is fun as it is mind-bending to mull over the recent artworks of avante-garde artist Hayden Sison, whose exhibit entitled “Adventures in Digongland (More High Fructose Corn Syrup)”, will take center stage from January 3 to 14, 2017 at the SM Art Center in Megamall, Mandaluyong City.
The pieces on display reflect his contemplations on the events and personalities in the frontline of governance. “As an artist and an observer, my job is to notice things. ‘Digongland’ is where we are now and where we will be for the next six years. I’m just adding what I notice to the audio-visual pollution,” explained Sison, who is holding his fourth solo exhibit since he started his career in the Arts two years ago.
His artistic process led him to random places where he met his primary “muse”, who happen to be none other than one of the world’s most popular personalities, President Rodrigo R. Duterte.
“During the election campaign, I went to listen to PRRD speak during one of his sorties. I went to revisit Davao where I became reacquainted with the Mayor’s work. I also had the privilege to chat with him at an intimate birthday dinner of a friend. He was already the President then. He is soft-spoken, reassuring, and very straightforward. That’s my observation. Like an uncle you have who curses a lot, but who’s watching out for you and whose got your back,” he said.
One of his mentors in the industry Gerry Inco describes Sison’s art as conceptual and whose output is widely diverse like Dada. “Rule number 1, there are no rules in Art. Hayden’s work is conceptual in the sense that the idea or concept is first and foremost rather than the actual outcome of the artwork. Dada, on the other hand, because his works challenge known artistic norms and often satirical,” related Inco.
Sison is known for art that reflects dark humor, satire or double meanings. However, this is the first time his artistic mischief will focus on politics or political commentary.
“Adventures in Digongland (More High Fructose Corn Syrup)” will have a private and exclusive artist’s reception for friends of the artist, collectors, patrons and the media on January 7, 5pm. For those interested to attend, kindly visit and confirm attendance at this link to be included in the VIP guest list: https://www.facebook.com/events/594693810719183/. ADVT