A sculptor for more than 20 years, Juan Sajid Imao excels in his use of metal and experiments with different media. Sajid’s mastery of his medium and body of works have led to his being recognized as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World (TOYP) in 2006 for personal accomplishment in the arts, awarded at the JCI World Congress in Seoul, Korea; one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) of the Philippines for sculpture in 2001; and the Metrobank Foundation Prize for Achievement (MPAS) in Sculpture Awardee in 2007, an award given to mid-career sculptors who have significantly contributed to the development of Philippine sculpture.

Sajid is known for creating exceptional public art, as seen in his monuments and landmark sculptures found all over the country. Sajid’s vision is to popularize sculpture, which is not as appreciated as other visual arts, by inspiring people to interact with his works. He has done this best with his 25-meter functional brass sundial at the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) entitled Kasaysayan Bawat Oras – a winning entry in BGC’s first Public Art Contest in 1997. An accurate timepiece rich in symbols of Philippine history, Sajid’s sundial is a first of its kind in the country in that it combines both art and function in what is considered one of the most ancient tools for telling time. Another similarly engaging work of his is the modern brass crucifix at the Church of the Gesu in the Ateneo de Manila University. In 2009, Sajid was adjudged the Grand Prize Winner in the Deutsche Bank Invitational Public Art Contest. His winning entry Diversi-team is a 10-ft sculpture made of copper and stainless steel installed in front of the Netquad Building in BGC.

On the other hand, Sajid’s smaller sculptures incorporate bold elements and the use of a variety of materials other than brass. His exhibit works also reveal his personal experiences and views.