“Secret Sanctuaries” By Jomike Tejido

Galerie Joaquin Rockwell

November 13- 22, 2026

Treating each canvas like a living tank, Jomike Tejido’s Secret Sanctuaries invites viewers into the hidden and curious ecosystems of the underwater world.

Tejido builds his compositions from the ground up—first “aquascaping” balanced configurations of rocks, plants, and corals before introducing schools of fish that weave, shelter, and dart through their environment. Complementing the paintings notable of his organic geometric shapes are sculptural coral formations that mirror the dual nature of reefs as both otherworldly living architecture and vital, protective strongholds for marine life.

For the first time in his practice, Tejido incorporates phosphorescent paint across both his paintings and sculptures. Drawing from the quiet wonder of marine bioluminescence, the works shift dramatically from day to night—revealing glowing, hidden inhabitants and transforming the gallery into an illuminated nocturnal reef when the lights go out.

Secret Sanctuaries is designed to slow the viewer down, shifting the gallery experience from passive observation to quiet, immersive discovery. By contrasting daytime clarity with an illuminated nocturnal reveal, the show prompts viewers to reflect on the essentual role of safe spaces, both in nature and in our own lives.