Contemporary Art Lesson 1

Contemporary Art Overview

• Contemporary art refers to artworks created from the late 20th century to the present day, differing from modern art historically, stylistically, and culturally.
• Key characteristics include a lack of uniform principles and a focus on challenging the nature of art itself.
• Notable contemporary artists include Cesar Legaspi (Cubist works), Carlos “Botong” V. Francisco (Magpupukot, 1975), and Imelda Cajipe Endaya (Filipina DH, 1995).
• Art serves as a means for social expression and cultural commentary.

Historical Overview of Philippine Art

• Pre-colonial art is defined as indigenous, showcasing ornaments and body art.
• The Spanish period (1521-1898) focused on religious themes.
• The American period (1898-1940) emphasized landscape and portraiture.
• The Japanese period (1941-1945) featured wartime scenes and propaganda.

Islamic Influence on Philippine Art

• The aim of Islamic art is to reflect divine unity and avoid materiality, characterized by abstract forms.
• Intricate patterns and elaborate designs are prevalent in mosque interiors.
• Cultural dominance in Southern Philippines dates back to the 13th century, heavily influenced by Islam.

Development of Theater in the Philippines

• Early theater forms include religious processions with carrozas depicting saints and narratives.
• Zarzuela emerged in the 19th century, incorporating singing and dancing alongside prose dialogue.
• The Senakulo, a Passion Play, symbolically connects Christ’s suffering to the Filipino experience under colonial rule.
• The Komedya highlights conflicts, often depicting battles between Muslims and Christians.

American Colonial Period Art and Society

• The period (1898-1940) affected the cultural landscape, leading to the emergence of Neo-Realism and Abstraction.
• The establishment of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) in 1966 aimed at promoting Filipino arts through exhibitions and workshops.
• Social Realism became pronounced during the 1970s as a response to political turbulence, particularly during Martial Law declared in 1972.
• Notable works from this period include Levi Celerio and Felipe Padilla de Leon's songs promoting optimism amidst struggles.

Key Art Forms and Symbols

• Tepo Mat from Tawi-tawi serves various cultural purposes, including as a wedding gift.
• Nito baskets from Ibayat, Batanes exemplify indigenous craftsmanship used in daily life.
• Kendi or brass water vessels are often heirloom pieces signifying status.

Artistic Innovations in the 19th and 20th Centuries

• The printing revolution began in the 16th century with techniques such as xylography.
• Notable printed works include "Doctrina Christiana" in multiple languages, consolidating Christian teachings.
• The intricate murals like Jose Dans' "Heaven, Earth, and Hell" reflect religious themes and artistic supervision of the era.

Influence of Martial Law on Art

• Martial Law in the 1970s led to a surge in politically charged art and the exploration of societal issues.
• Cultural projects during the regime embraced western avant-garde, pop art, and aspirations for a new beginning in Philippine society.
• Eduardo Castillo’s large-scale sculptures were reflective of collective emotions, resonating themes of loss and anguish.

Explore the contrasts between early 1960s contemporary art and artworks from the American and colonial periods. This quiz focuses on notable artists like HR Ocampo and Cesar Legaspi, analyzing their unique styles and contributions. Dive into the evolution of modern art and its significance.