Michael Sagaran’s neon dreamscapes at Xavier Art Fest

A series of vibrant acrylic paintings stood out at Altro Mondo Gallery’s booth during last weekend’s Xavier Art Fest. A Chinese-Filipino mother and her teenage daughter pointed at a neon, cyberpunk-inspired painting of a relaxed pug cruising on a Vespa against a sunset backdrop, inquiring about its price. 

The girl lingered by the painting for a while, clearly captivated — probably imagining it adorning her wall, or admiring the skilled brushstrokes and vivid colors that seemed to leap off the canvas and drawing viewers into a bubbly, escapist, neon-lit realm.

The artwork is by Michael Sagaran, a contemporary Filipino artist renowned for his lively pop art pieces. He recently debuted his latest works at Xavier School’s landmark art event, and DAILY TRIBUNE had the privilege of speaking with the artist about his newest collection:

DAILY TRIBUNE (DT): Your new collection features playful and nostalgic themes blended with pop art. What inspired you to explore this particular direction for the Xavier Art Fest?

MICHAEL SAGARAN (MS): My inspiration came from a deep desire to create art that brings people back to a time of joy, innocence and carefree moments. Nostalgia is a powerful emotion — it connects us to our happiest memories and reminds us of the simple pleasures that shaped who we are. For this collection, I wanted to merge that sense of familiarity with the vibrant, playful energy of pop art to spark happiness and wonder. The Xavier Art Fest felt like the perfect platform to explore this direction, as it attracts an audience that appreciates creativity and meaningful expression. My goal was to evoke smiles and a sense of connection for everyone who experiences the collection.

DT: How did the Xavier Art Fest offer a unique platform for your work compared to previous exhibitions you’ve participated in?

MS: The Xavier Art Fest has a special vibrancy and warmth that makes it stand out. It’s not just an art exhibition — it’s a community gathering that celebrates creativity in all its forms. This setting allows my work to reach a diverse audience, from seasoned art enthusiasts to families and young minds seeing art as a source of inspiration for the first time. What makes it unique for me is the opportunity to connect more personally with viewers and share the stories behind my pieces. The festival atmosphere encourages dialogue, which adds a new dimension to how my art is experienced. It’s a chance to see firsthand how my work resonates with different people, which is incredibly fulfilling as an artist.

DT: Can you share the creative process behind pieces like ‘VespaPug’ or ‘Neon Rider’? How did you balance fun imagery with artistic depth?

MS: Both VespaPug and Neon Rider were born out of a fascination with combining lighthearted subjects with deeper layers of storytelling. VespaPug plays with the iconic charm of pugs, using neon hues and retro aesthetics to capture a sense of playfulness and individuality. On the other hand, Neon Rider juxtaposes the bold energy of movement with elements of nostalgia, creating a balance between action and reflection. My creative process begins with brainstorming themes that resonate personally, followed by experimenting with bold color palettes, layering techniques, and textures that give each piece dimension. While the imagery may be fun, I make sure every brushstroke adds meaning — whether it’s a detail that recalls a specific memory or a color choice that invokes emotion.

DT: How do you think your works resonate with both art collectors and casual viewers?

MS: I believe my works have a universal appeal because they tap into emotions that are both personal and shared. Art collectors often appreciate the intricate details, unique concepts, and deeper narrative within each piece. Meanwhile, casual viewers are drawn to the playful imagery and vibrant colors, which make the art feel approachable and relatable. Whether someone connects with the nostalgic undertones or simply enjoys the energy and visual impact, I hope my work feels inclusive and leaves a lasting impression. My goal is to create art that sparks conversation, memories and joy for anyone who encounters it.

DT: What message or emotion do you hope attendees took away after viewing your collection at the festival?

MS: I hope attendees left with a sense of happiness and lightness, feeling as though they had revisited a cherished memory or found a moment of escape from the everyday. Through my art, I aimed to remind people of the beauty in simple joys — whether it’s the quirky charm of a pug or the glow of neon lights sparking childhood memories. More than anything, I hope my work inspired viewers to carry that joy and wonder into their own lives. Life can be heavy at times, but if my art made someone smile, feel connected, or even dream a little brighter, then I consider it a success.