Artist’s Spotlight

Oddin Sena

Visual Artist

“Through his meticulous craftsmanship, Sena captures the essence of everyday life, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of self-reflection and empathy, where each brushstroke becomes a portal to the hidden stories within objects.”

In the world of contemporary art, where creativity knows no bounds, Oddin Sena emerges as a visionary artist, blending the realms of visual communication and fine arts into a captivating fusion of form and expression. With a profound understanding of the human experience, Sena’s artworks transcend mere aesthetics, evoking emotions and stories that resonate with viewers on a deep and personal level.

Sena embarked on a transformative artistic journey at the prestigious University of the Philippines Diliman, where they pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts with a major in Visual Communication. It was within the hallowed halls of the College of Fine Arts that Sena honed their artistic skills, exploring the vast potential of various mediums and techniques. Graduating in 2013, Sena emerged as a prodigious talent, ready to make their mark on the Philippine art scene.

The art world took notice of Sena’s immense talent when they became a finalist in the Oil/Acrylic category of the 43rd Shell National Students Art Competition in 2010. This accolade served as a testament to Sena’s dedication and artistic prowess. In 2016, they secured third prize in the Manining Miclat National Art Competition, solidifying their position as an artist of remarkable ability and creative vision.

Sena’s artistry extends beyond the confines of the canvas, as they have participated in numerous group exhibitions that have captivated audiences across the nation. In 2010, their work was showcased in the thought-provoking exhibition “A Take on Studio” at the Corredor Gallery, College of Fine Arts, U.P. Diliman. The following year, their art was featured in the acclaimed “EDSA: Noon at Ngayon” exhibition at the Sining Kamalig Gallery, exploring the ever-evolving landscape of the iconic EDSA thoroughfare.

Throughout the years, Sena’s artistry has graced prestigious galleries and exhibitions, including the National Commission for Culture and the Arts Gallery, Galerie Anna, Kaida Gallery, Cevio Art Haus, and the Kaida Contemporary. Notable exhibitions such as “Vantage,” “Under the Broad Umbrella,” and “Open Minded 3” showcased the breadth and depth of Sena’s artistic talent, leaving an indelible impression on all who encountered their works.

In addition to their participation in group exhibitions, Sena has also held several solo exhibitions, each one a testament to their artistic evolution and narrative prowess. In 2016, “A 24/7 World” at Kaida Contemporary provided a glimpse into Sena’s exploration of the intricacies of contemporary existence. “Humanize” in 2017 delved into the essence of humanity, while “Pastures” in 2018 celebrated the beauty of nature and its symbiotic relationship with mankind. Sena’s solo exhibitions continued to captivate art enthusiasts, with “Bombardscapes” at the esteemed Pinto Art Museum in 2019 and “Add to Cart” at Kaida Contemporary in 2022, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and challenging societal norms.

Through his thought-provoking “OOTD” series, Sena explores the significance of objects in our lives. Drawing inspiration from the popular internet abbreviation “Outfit of the Day,” Sena believes that by documenting the belongings of an individual, one can preserve their history, memories, and essence. Each meticulously crafted artwork in this series captures a tangible moment in time, weaving a tapestry of discussions and narratives that come to life through the artist’s masterful brushstrokes.

In the world of Oddin Sena, art is more than just a visual representation of reality—it is a gateway to introspection and storytelling. Sena’s art invites viewers to contemplate the profound connections between objects and the lives they inhabit, transcending the boundaries of time and space.

The process of painting becomes a vessel through which Sena breathes life into these objects, infusing them with meaning and imbuing them with a sense of presence. Each stroke of the brush reveals the intricate details and subtle nuances that give depth and character to the subject matter. Through their meticulous craftsmanship, Sena captures the essence of everyday life, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of self-reflection and empathy.

Sena’s artistic style combines elements of realism and abstraction, creating a unique visual language that speaks to the soul. Their keen eye for composition and color harmonies results in artworks that are visually striking and emotionally evocative. Whether it is a worn pair of shoes, a weathered book, or a cherished memento, Sena’s paintings invite us to see beyond the surface and delve into the stories that these objects silently hold.

By focusing on the items often worn or carried by their father, who is a teacher and a constant presence in their life, Sena pays homage to the significance of these objects as a symbol of personal history and the journey of an individual. Through the act of painting, Sena preserves not only the physical representation of these objects but also the intangible emotions and memories that they carry.

Sena’s art is not limited to a singular perspective but serves as a catalyst for dialogue and introspection. Each painting opens a window to a myriad of narratives, inviting viewers to engage in conversations about identity, memory, and the interconnectedness of human experiences. The artist’s ability to capture the essence of everyday objects and elevate them to objects of contemplation and reverence is a testament to their artistic brilliance.

As an artist, Sena continues to push boundaries and challenge conventions. Their unwavering commitment to exploring new concepts and techniques has garnered them recognition and respect within the artistic community. With every brushstroke, Sena invites us to pause, to reflect, and to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us in the most ordinary of things.