National Artist Award (1)

Study Notes

The Order of National Artists is the highest national recognition for Filipino individuals who contribute to the development of Philippine arts.
The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) jointly administer the award and the President of the Philippines confers it.

Juan Nakpil was a pioneer and innovator in Philippine architecture.
He believed in a distinctly Philippine Architecture, reflecting the nation's traditions and culture.
He was instrumental in advocating for Filipino architects and engineers to participate in government projects.
Nakpil's works show a strong emphasis on structural strength, functionality, and aesthetics.
Some of his notable works include:
- Administration Building and Library (UP Diliman)
- Reconstruction of Rizal Shrine
- Manila Jockey Club
- Old Humanities Building, UP Los Baños
- 1937 International Eucharistic Congress altar
- Quiapo Church (rebuilt and enlarged in 1930)
- Quezon Hall (Admission Building), UP Diliman
- Renovated house of Jose Rizal in Calamba, Laguna

Pablo Sebero Antonio, a National Artist for Architecture, is known for pioneering modern Filipino architecture.
His work is characterized by simplicity, clean lines, and the integration of curves into the structure.
He prioritizes function over form, believing that every design element must have a meaningful purpose.
Antonio emphasizes the use of natural light and cross ventilation in his buildings.
His architectural philosophy emphasizes austerity, stability, progress, and dignity.
Notable works include:
- Far Eastern University Administration and Science Building
- Manila Polo Club
- Ideal Theater
- Ramon Roces Publications Building

Leandro Locsin's architecture reshaped the urban landscape, showcasing a distinct blend of Philippine art and culture.
He believed that true Philippine architecture arises from the synthesis of oriental and occidental cultural influences.
Locsin is known for his mastery of space and scale, particularly in his use of concrete.
His work is characterized by themes of floating volume, a play between light and heavy elements, buoyancy, and massiveness.
Between 1955 and 1994, he designed 75 residences and 88 buildings, including churches, public buildings, commercial structures, hotels, and an airport terminal.
Some of his most notable works include:
- Cultural Center of the Philippines
- Folk Arts Theater
- Philippine International Convention Center
- Sofitel Philippine Plaza (The Westin Hotel)
- Istana Nurul Iman

Francisca Reyes-Aquino is a renowned dancer and researcher of Philippine folk dance.
Her research, Philippine Folk Dances and Games, documented local celebrations and rituals, published in 1926.
This research has been widely used in public and private school instructions.
She was awarded the Republic Award of Merit in 1954 and the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1962.
She also wrote Philippine National Dance, Gymnastics for Girls, and Philippine Folk Dances (Vol. 1-6).