Rising Stars: Meet Dar San Agustin

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dar San Agustin.

Dar, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m a visual artist using photography as my medium, born and raised from Manila, Philippines. My passion for photography began in high school and led me to pursue it as my major at De La Salle-College of St. Benilde (DLS-CSB), where I initially studied Multimedia Arts before shifting to Photography. Over the years, I’ve honed my skills working professionally in the wedding and portrait industry while also experimenting with cyanotypes and other alternative processes. I later transitioned into teaching photography at my alma mater before seizing the opportunity to further my education. Currently, I’m pursuing my Master’s degree at the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), continuing my journey in the world of photography. 

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Living in a third-world country always has its set of constant challenges – photography or otherwise. Throughout my years working it has always been a tight balance between making a decent living and pursuing my interests, and it’s not uncommon for the latter to be compromised during tougher times. I was fortunate enough to be offered opportunities to pursue my art, though those only came after painstaking years behind the lens, honing my craft, and putting in the hours to be worthy of such chances. Finding the equilibrium between work and creative fulfillment is a continuous battle to reignite my passion and soul. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I view myself as an evolving artist, constantly exploring new mediums and techniques as I navigate life’s experiences. My work often revolves around celebrating the beauty, strength, and fragility of the female form, reflecting how it interacts and finds a place in the universe around it and how it’s integrated into my local culture and heritage as a Filipino. I mostly draw inspiration from my personal experiences and that of my friends; it plays a part in the approach I take and how I present my work. 

I take pride in my alternative process works, blending historical printing methods with modern technology. I find joy in showcasing that photography extends beyond traditional camera use. Some of my cyanotype pieces have been acquired by museums in the Philippines and exhibited both locally and internationally. 

In addition, I have recently begun exploring installations, sculpture, and moving images, expanding my artistic horizons and seeking new ways to express my creativity. 

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
My growing years have been mostly peaceful. We lived in a small city called Antipolo in Philippines, where our house is up on a hill. My mother raised me to be independent and also allowed me to explore my passions and get into different hobbies like sewing, games, dancing, and eventually photography – all without judgement. One of my uncles used to say that my eyes were just like buttons when I was young, because I just observe the people around me and was very shy. At school, I was mostly reserved or in the company of a few close friends – traits that carried over into college and professional life. Most of my young adult life has been defined by work and meeting deadlines and client demands, and going full freelance was one of the biggest and scariest steps I took. It was only in recent years that I was able to freely explore my art, take opportunities to further it, and eventually make my way to CalArts. This journey has been both challenging and rewarding, shaping me into the artist I am today. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://photographsbydar.wixsite.com/portfolio
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photographsbydar