When Filipino artist Sherwin Tan held his first solo exhibition, he didn’t have a degree in fine arts. He didn’t even have formal training. What he did have was passion, grit, and the courage to begin—and that was enough to ignite a career that has since sold hundreds of paintings and inspired countless others.
In an interview with Financial Adviser PH (FA), Sherwin shared how his creative journey began not in a studio, but in the rice fields and coastal roads of his childhood. “When I was a child, my dad often took us to the beach. Along the way, we would pass by rice fields under clear blue skies. I would often spot herons gracefully perched on the backs of carabaos,” he recalled. These tranquil scenes, etched in memory, became the emotional and artistic foundation for his later work.
Unlike many traditional artists, Sherwin never enrolled in formal art school. “It was purely out of passion. And inspiration,” he said. Armed only with a vision, he approached the Surigaonon Heritage Center and pitched the idea of mounting his first solo exhibit. “It was a bold step toward sharing my passion with the world,” he added. With the support of his parents and the local arts center, that dream became reality.
His path was not without hurdles. Recognition was hard-earned, and criticism from “gatekeepers” in the art scene came with the territory. “Artistic taste is deeply subjective, and while some may admire your work, others can be overly critical or dismissive,” Sherwin said. But instead of backing down, he leaned into the challenges, fueled by a deeper mission: to create art that uplifts. “Art can heal, connect, and remind us of the beauty and resilience within humanity.”
Over time, the rewards came. One standout year, he sold over 100 paintings—enough to buy his first car. “That milestone not only brought immense satisfaction but also allowed me to purchase my first car—a tangible reminder of the fruits of my dedication.”
His advice to aspiring creatives? “Just go ahead and start.” In an age where perfectionism can paralyze, Sherwin’s journey is proof that the willingness to begin—with heart and purpose—can lead to extraordinary places.
