History of Visual Arts in the Philippines

History and Development of Visual Arts in the Philippines

• The objectives are to examine the history, analyze the styles, and discuss the influence of visual arts in the Philippines.
• Main topics include Pre-colonial, Modern, and Contemporary Philippine art.

Pre-Colonial Philippine Art (Before 1521)

• Pottery was a developed skill, with ceramics made for daily and ritual use.
• Wood carving was prominent, with statues of "anitos," "diwata," and deities.
• Textile arts used weaving with designs and patterns that represented social status and cultural beliefs.
• Metal work utilized gold, silver and bronze for jewelry, ornaments and weapons

Modern Philippine Art (1898-1946)

• Religious art was promoted by the Catholic Church.
• Academic art came from the Spanish, who founded the Academia de Dibujo y Pintura in Manila to train in European styles.
• Nationalism caused artists to express national identity, which saw the emergence of Juan Luna.
• American influence occurred in the early 20th century through American artists and movements, like Impressionism and Realism.
• Modernism emerged in the 1950s and caused experimentation with abstract art.

Contemporary Philippine Art (1946-Present)

• Social Realism, in the 1960s, depicted the struggles of ordinary Filipinos.
• Abstract Expressionism became popular in the 1970s and explored non-representational art.
• Conceptual art emerged in the 1980s and focused on the idea, rather than physical form.
• Installation art has surged in popularity, with immersive and site-specific experiences.

Modern Philippine Art: Styles and Movements

• Academic Art was influenced by the Academia de Dibujo y Pintura during the Spanish colonial period, focusing on neoclassicism and realism.
• Juan Luna and Félix Resurrección Hidalgo were key artists who gained international recognition, and "Las Damas Romanas" is a Neoclassical style.
• "The 13 Modernists" in the early 20th century challenged academic style and embraced experimental styles.
• Victorio Edades, Carlos "Botong" Francisco, and Galo B. Ocampo were key artists, and Victorio Edades' "The Builders" (1928) is the first modernist painting.
• The Amorsolo School, led by Fernando Amorsolo, became a national icon for idyllic Filipino life depictions.
• Jorge Pineda, Ireneo Miranda, and Toribio Herrera followed Amorsolo, and Amorsolo's "Planting Rice" (1920s) is a classic style.
• Modernism in the 1950s caused a shift to abstract art and experimentation.
• Vicente Manansala, Arturo Luz, and Hernando R. Ocampo where key artist, and Vicente Manansala's "The Musicians" (1950s) exemplifies abstraction.

Contemporary Philippine Art: Influence on Society and Culture

• Contemporary artists use their work to raise awareness of social issues, challenge the status quo, and promote social change.
• Social realist art emerged in the 1960s, with Elmer Borlongan and Nona Garcia known for social issues.

Cultural Diversity

• Contemporary art celebrates the country's diversity, showcasing traditions, regional variations, and cultural practices.
• Artists like Benedicto Cabrera (Bencab) explore Filipino identity and culture.

Global Engagement

• Contemporary Philippine art engages globally, participating in international exhibitions and collaborating with artists worldwide.
• International exhibitions showcase Filipino artistic talent and cultural richness.

Technological Integration

• Contemporary artists use digital platforms, virtual reality, and augmented reality for immersive experiences.

Preservation of Cultural Heritage

• Contemporary artists draw inspiration from traditional Filipino art forms.
• Patricia Perez Eustaquio is a notable artist.