Aguirre, Tracy Ann J.
BSBA FM 2-2
AAP 0007-6
Mr. Joseph Garcia
Art in the Philippines
The Philippines has a rich cultural and historical heritage. As a result, many Filipino artists,
both past and present, draw inspiration for their works from our history and culture. Some Filipino
artists create their masterpieces as if they were simple works of art, but there is an underlying
message that the artist wishes to convey. Some depict the daily lives of Filipinos, as well as the
discrimination and torture that Filipinos endured during the Spanish conquest of our country.
The art in the Philippines is a collection of works of art that we have racked up and
developed over time, from the start of civilization in our country to the present. As previously
stated, our culture influences the majority of the arts in the Philippines. We have some well-known
artists in the Philippines, including Fernando Amorsolo, Jose Joya, Pacita Abad, Ang Kiukok,
Benedicto Cabrera, Kidlat Tahimik, and many others. These artists use a range of techniques to
create their works. They employ various techniques and convey various messages. We have the
well-known, Fernando Amorsolo—who was named the country's first National Artist by thenPresident Ferdinand Marcos in 1972, and is also known as the 'Grand Old Man of Philippine Art.'
Backlighting was invented by him, a Spanish-trained realist. His vibrant depictions of locals reflect
the warmth of the Philippine sun. The figures and illuminated landscapes on the canvas glow
magically. He was able to capture the beauty and simplicity of everyday life in the Philippines
through his paintings. "The Fruit Gatherer," which he created in 1950, is one of his works. When
you look at this piece, you'll realize it's the original dalagang filipina. According to Fernando
Amorsolo, “The women I paint should have a rounded face, not of the oval type often presented
to us in newspapers and magazine illustrations. The eyes should be exceptionally lively, not the
dreamy, sleepy type that characterizes the Mongolian. The nose should be of the blunt form but
firm and strongly marked. … So the ideal Filipina beauty should not necessarily be white
complexioned, nor of the dark brown color of the typical Malayan, but of the clear skin or fresh
colored type which we often witness when we met a blushing girl.”
Overall, our rich culture and history have had a significant impact on Philippine art. Our
culture inspires Filipino artists to create masterpieces with a message to convey such as Fernando
Amorsolo, who has been recognized for his undeniably great works up to this point. This made me
realize that art never gets old and will never disappear from our lives, and that art will only continue
and evolve with the passage of time.