LEARNERS SUMMARY OF LESSON IN FIRST QUARTER

CONTEMPORARY PHILIPPINE ARTS FROM THE REGIONS

The development of the Philippine arts comes in three major traditions. These are the
Ethnic Tradition, Spanish Colonial Tradition, and American Colonial and Contemporary
Arts Traditions. Even before the colonization, the Philippines already has its indigenous
arts. In this era, art forms were primarily influenced by the area where our ancestors
prosper. However, the Spaniards came who tend to replace indigenous arts with western
arts. For the period of Spanish rule, art forms were primarily influenced by religion and
secularization. Consequently, after more than three centuries of Spanish colonization,
Americans came. During American rule, development of Philippine art forms was mainly
influenced by education and governance. Subsequently, concept of modern art was
introduced and practiced by many artists. It is in this time wherein urbanization,
consumerism, changes in the political system, and rise of new technology influence the
development of art. Due to the technological advances, new forms of expression came in
the field of arts and modern art continuously developed which led to the contemporary arts
nowadays (Luzviminda & Sayseng, 2016). To describe the development of Philippine arts,
read the information presented on the table below.

Characteristic
Tradition Various Art Forms from The Regions
s/Features
Art forms are Angono Petroglyphs
primarily The Angono Petroglyphs is
influenced by situated in Binangonan, Rizal.
the It was discovered by the
geographical National Artist, Carlos
location and “Botong” Francisco, in 1965.
the experiences https://upload.wikimedia.org
There are 127 human and
/wikipedia/commons/7/7b/
of the Filipinos Angono-Petroglyphs-1.jpg animal figures engraved on
Ethnic (Luzviminda & the rock wall and dated back
Tradition Sayseng, 2016). to circa late Neolithic.
In this time, the
purpose of arts Manunggul Jar
is integral to Manunggul jar is found in
life. Arts Manunggul Cave, Lipuun Point,
reflected the Palawan in the early 1960s.
pagan beliefs https://upload.wikimedi Manunggul jar is a burial jar which
a.org/wikipedia/commo signifies the belief of early Filipino in
and practices, ns/e/eb/Manunggul_Jar
everyday .jpg
life after death.
 activity such as Banga
fishing and Banga literally means pots. The Banga
farming, and or pot dance is a performance of
specific Kalinga of the Mountain Province of
decorative art https://www.flickr.com/photos
the Philippines. This dance shows
pattern to the /kostastrovas/5586665289/in/
the elegant grace of Igorot tribe and
photolist-9vF7Xk-aqxtt6
community. the skill and strength of women.
Langit, lupa, at Impyerno
by Josef Luciano Dans
This wall painting by Josef Luciano Dans will be found in
Art forms were
St. James the Apostle Church in Paete, Laguna. This
primarily
painting was dated 1850 and depicts the heaven,
influenced by
crucifixion of Christ; earth, Adan and Eve; and hell,
religion and
Spanish sinners with different transgressions.
secularization.
Colonial https://commons.wikimedia.org/
In this time,
Tradition wiki/File:Allan_Jay_Quesada- St. Paul Metropolitan
Spaniards used _DSC_0465_St._Paul_Metropolitan
_Cathedral,_Vigan_City.jpg Cathedral
arts to
St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral
propagate the
is located in Burgos, Vigan City,
Catholic faith.
Ilocos Sur. The original structure
was built in 1574 and replaced as a church in 1641. The
cathedral follows a Baroque architectural design.
The Making of the Philippine
Flag
by Fernando Amorsolo
Modern Art This painting was made by
https://www.flickr.com/photos
Modern art /192509194@N08/5102723041
Fernando Amorsolo, “Grand Old
2/in/photolist-tqrprj-2kK6TQG Man of Philippine Art” and born in
refers to the
practice of art Manila. It shows a reminder of the reminder of traditions
from 1860s to and customs of the Filipino.
1960s. the
Bayanihan
main theme of
American by Carlos “Botong” Francisco
art works in
Colonial Carlos “Botong” Francisco was
this time is
and born in Ango, Rizal. This
national https://www.flickr.com/photos/
Contempo nccaofficial/18250521149/in/p painting by him was dated in
identity.
rary Arts
hotolist-tNJG6K-2hVaF4W
1962. This mural painting of
Traditions Carlos “Botong” Francisco shows the Filipino’s bayanihan
tradition. This also shows the distinctive style of
Francisco’s painting that showcased his mastery in arts.
Contemporary Cinco Marias (Tres Marias
Arts Series)
Contemporary by Federico Aguilar Alcuaz
art refers to the Federico Aguilas Alcuaz was
practice of art http://www.artnet.com/artists born in Santa Cruz, Manila.
/federico-aguilar-alcuaz/cinco-
from 1970s to marias-tres-marias-series- Cinco Marias (Tres Marias
the present. t13EdcO9e9IDJjcXRsyM5A2
Series) depicts the variety of
Contemporary domestic activities (Guillermo, 2007).
 arts mirror https://www.flickr.com/photos/ Art Installation in Sand
contemporary blrapadas/7401469674/in/phot
olist-ch3t57-bX1hu6 Dunes of Paoay
culture and
by Leeroy New
society. Diverse
Leeroy New is one of the
and emerging
Philippines contemporary
art practices
artists. He is born in General
were being
SANTOS City. This art installation of Leeroy New was
introduced in
made for the La Milagrosa Festival in Ilocos Norte.
this era.
According to Leeroy New, the art installation symbolizes
the great festivals, feasts and celebrations (Lape𝑛̃a, 2012).

These art forms from various regions or from various artists contributed to the
picture of Philippine’s identity as a country. And as a Filipino, it’s important that we have
knowledge to describe these art forms based on its details and elements, in relation to our
country’s culture and tradition, that makes it an artistic piece. In the field of arts,
knowing the elements and principles of arts is important, not just to the artist but also
to the viewer, to have a deeper understanding of an artwork. Now, let us know these
elements and principles of arts.

Elements of Art

1. Space
In visual arts, space pertains to emptiness which may either be
positive space or negative space. Positive space refers to a part
which is enclosed in a shape, while negative space refers to the
opposite part which the shape is enclosing.
2. Line
In visual arts, a line is a series of connected points. It may come
in two characteristics: form – curved, dotted, or broken lines;
and direction – vertical, horizontal, or diagonal lines. Different
types of lines may convey different meanings. For example, a
horizontal line usually suggests calmness, vert ical lines may convey strength,
diagonal lines create an impression of action, curved lines create an expression of
gradual change of direction, and circular line may pertain an abrupt change of
direction.
3. Shape and Form
Shape is an area that is enclosed by a line or lines. Shapes are
two dimensional figures with height and width. There are
different kinds of shapes and these are geometric shapes
(triangle, squares, rectangle, etc.), organic shapes (shapes
found in nature, e.g. shape of a leaf or cloud), abstract shapes
(asymmetrical and free flowing shapes). Meanwhile, forms are
three dimensional figures. Its dimensions are height, width,
and volume. Unlike shapes, it has more depth.
4. Color
In visual arts, color is associated with the natural phenomenon in our
environment. Scientifically, when a light passes through a prism, it will produce
 different hues of different wavelengths. These colors may pertain to lightness,
darkness, coolness, or warmth.
5. Value
In visual arts, value is considered a property of a
color which pertains to its lightness or darkness.
6. Texture
In visual arts, texture is the element that appeals to our sense of feel on things,
rough, smooth, bumpy, or slippery. It pertains to the surface of an art piece.

Principles of Art

1. Proportion
Proportion refers to the relationship of the size of elements in a body of art. For
example, when drawing a human standing beside a house, it is important to
ensure that the size of the human is proportional to the size of the house.
2. Harmony
In visual arts, harmony is the unity of the artwork, specifically about the arrangement
of the related elements.
3. Variety
In other terms, variety may be referred to as diversity. This means adding
multiple, different elements to break the monotony of an artwork and make it
more interesting.
4. Movement
In arts, movement is the illusion of motion in a painting, sculpture design, or in a
piece of art.
5. Rhythm
This refers to the repetition of certain elements to produce a pattern. In visual
arts, repeated design elements may create a certain flow and may lead the viewer’s
eyes.
6. Balance
Balance refers to the even and equal distribution of elements.
7. Emphasis
Emphasis is a principle which may refer to the greater impact given on a certain
element.

These elements and principles of arts are essential to understand the meaning of
a piece of art clearly and deeply. In relation to that, diverse art forms in the Philippines
convey its meanings through the elements and principles present to them. So, as we
described some art forms from the various regions through the development of Philippine
arts, let’s use the elements and principles of arts to understand it.

Contemporary Art
Contemporary Art is influenced by the economic, social, political and environmental
context where the artist is immersed in. It can be said that Contemporary Art is the artist’s
expression of his perception and comprehension of these contexts. Contemporary Arts in
the Philippines is as diverse as our people. Contemporary Philippine Art is not confined
to the usual genres of the four main art forms, namely, visual, literary, applied and
performing arts. Genres are categories of artistic creation and are characterized by
similarities in form, style, or subject matter. Many other genres came up which include pure
are forms as well as mixed art forms. The following are examples from each art form:
 Examples of Contemporary Art Forms
Visual Arts Performance Arts Applied Arts Literary Arts
• Pop Art • Music: blues, • Video Art • Illustrated Novel
electronic,
• Word Art experimental, • Photography • Digi-Fiction
• Conceptual Art funk, hip-hop, • Computer Art • Graphic Novels
jazz, metal, pop,
• Installation Art rock, roots • Film and • Manga
• Photorealism Broadcasting Art • Doodle Fiction
• Theater Art: stage,
• Contemporary film, street play • Architecture, • Text-Talk Novels
Realism Design and
• Dance: flash mob, Allied Art • Chick Literature
• Graffiti Art Street Dances • Flash Fiction
comprising hip-
hop, funk, house • Hyper Poetry
and rave • Blog

Contemporary Art is prominent in the Philippines and has been appreciated by

so many people, and some of them were not even aware that they are looking at fine
examples of Contemporary Art. Many contemporary Philippine artworks have earned the
admiration and respect of viewers from here and abroad. These artworks are expressions of
the artist’s thoughts and feelings based on their experience of the here and now. These
include current events, issues and social concerns affecting the society where the artist lives
in.

Contemporary Philippine artists hail from the different regions of the country.
They use a wide variety of art media in their creations, some of the media are materials that
are readily available in the locality where the artist resides. Contemporary Philippine
artworks are multifaceted and are expressive renditions of the artist’s perception of what
were observed and experienced. These artists create, work and make art in their personal
context. Viewers can appreciate contemporary Philippine art more by employing all of their
senses. Viewing art is not just a detached experienced but a deep personal experience of
dwelling into the artist’s mind and heart.

Expressions of Contemporary Philippine Art are influenced by social, historical,

geographical, ideational, personal and technical factors. These factors are imbibed by the
artist and are combined to get immersed in the heart, to get molded in the mind and to
be propelled in the hands to create an expressive reality.

Elements of Contemporary Art

Contemporary Arts have different elements that are put together to come up with
a distinct artwork. These elements include:

1. Appropriation, this relates to the modifications made by the artist.

2. Hybridity, this refers in the use of different art mediums that are put together.
 3. Technology, its application highlights the creativity of the artist.

4. Performance, carried out for viewers to experience.

5. Space, intricate use of space.

These elements are combined in different ways to come up with Integrative Art.
Integrative Art employs the use of different art elements used together in distinct
different expressions. Thus, it becomes a combination of different art forms for specific
groups of viewers. Integrative art is also a fusion of different art disciplines using
different styles and media in creating art. It can be found in different places of the
country, usually in urban areas where artists have ready access to different art forms
and media. Examples of Integrative Art include the use of computer applications
combined with other media, the use of non-traditional art materials in creating artworks
usually done with mixed art forms.

Contemporary Art Forms from the Philippine Regions

With modern technology and easy access to far-flung areas of the country, many
artworks have become known and many more are being created by present day artists from
the different regions. All forms of art can be found throughout the country. Artworks
coming from the seventeen regions of the three main island groups of Luzon, Visayas and
Mindanao, have been exhibited in different exhibition halls and museums. Viewers have
come to know and, more importantly, to understand the present-day art expressions of
artists who want their culture, situation and issues be known through their artworks.
The distinct features of Contemporary Philippine Art include:
1. Communal nature, as it reflects the relationships build around the bonds of
community and society.
2. Intuitive, as Filipinos are immersed in their consciousness of themselves, their
community and their culture.
3. Holistic, as individuals, groups of people and events are perceived in their
entirety as well as the unitive use of art materials and forms.
4. Creative process, as the artist puts more emphasis on now their artwork was
made than on the artwork itself.
5. Integrative, as it encompasses religious, moral, spiritual, social, and
environmental concerns.
6. Multi-focal, as it considers everything and everyone, the wide perspective of the
artwork as well as both artist and viewer.

PHILIPPINE CONTEMPORARY ARTS

Philippine contemporary arts can be described into visual arts, literary arts and
performing arts. Visual art is an expression of artistic ideas through images, structures,
 and tactile work. Some visual artworks are integrated which means it combines several
mediums to create new and unique artwork. Painting, sculpture, architecture, and film
are examples of visual arts.

Painting
Painting the expression of ideas and emotions, with the creation of certain
aesthetic qualities, in a two-dimensional visual language. The elements of this language
– its shapes, lines, colors, tones, and textures – are used in various ways to produce
sensations of volume, space, movement, and light on a flat surface. The first paintings
here in the Philippines are commissioned works during Spanish colonization. Here are some
paintings from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

Luzon Visayas Mindanao

The Sketch Magellan’s Cross Salaam (Peace)

by Victorio Edades by Raul Agas by Rameer Tawasil
https://www.flickr.com/photos/76723269@N07 Redraw by Mr. Mervin Meude
/8722614256/in/photolist-iDgnES-u6jAYu-
ehMFjY/

Sculpture
The sculpture is an art form in which hard or plastic materials are worked into
three-dimensional art objects. Filipino sculptors came to be known in the middle of the
19th century. These are some of the sculptures in the Philippines.

Luzon Visayas Mindanao

The Bonifacio Monument By Sandugo (Blood Compact) Six Ladies in Durian

Guillermo Tolentino By Napoleon Abueva By Kublai Millan
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Pambans https://www.flickr.com/photos/eazy360/4239418 https://www.flickr.com/photos/bridex/254
ang_Bantayog_ni_Andres_Bonifacio_(Bonifacio_Natio 527/in/photolist-7sC8qT-5E2z6L-8vXHFK- 4317912/in/photolist-4SQi5d-c5RbQC
nal_Monument).jpg 7sC5tM-6cecQS-9VKn6t-5npRCn

Architecture
Architecture is the art and practice of designing and constructing buildings
(Cambridge Advanced Learner’s Dictionary & Thesaurus). In relation to that, Philippine
 the young Filipino who studied in American colleges and institutes introduced the
neoclassic style in building structures. However, after World War II, real estate
development started to take place (Sandagan & Sayseng, 2016). To illustrate these
architectural designs, these are some examples from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

Luzon Visayas Mindanao

Cultural Center of the Philippines Saint Andrew the Apostle Pearl Farm Beach Resort
By Leandro Locsin Church By Francisco Manosa
https://www.flickr.com/photos/edgarjlaw/96706317
By Leandro Locsin https://www.flickr.com/photos/66926550@N04/
2/in/photolist-2tssbY-2kTpu6T 6098898267/in/photolist-ahWrYp-dvtkUz
https://www.flickr.com/photos/cannlvr/175903
0713/in/photolist-3FruxK-69Uqu7

Film
Film is a form of visual art use to imitate experiences that communicate ideas,
stories, or feelings with the use of moving images. It is also called a movie or motion picture.
Moreover, the art form that is the result of the film is called cinema (Faber & Walters, 2003).
The film industry in the Philippines started in 1897. In the contemporary period, martyr
wife, superhero, action, melodramas, and comedies are some of the usual subjects and
themes in the Philippine films. Some films in the Philippines are presented below.

Luzon Visayas Mindanao

Himala Muro-Ami Mindanao

By Ishmael Bernal By Marilou Diaz-Abaya By Brillante Mendoza
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Himala#/m https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muro- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Min
edia/File:Himala_FilmPoster.jpeg Ami_(film)#/media/File:Muro-ami.jpg danao_(film)#/media/File:Mindana
o_2019_movie_poster.jpg

Apart from visual arts, there are Philippine contemporary art forms that can be
described as literary arts. Literary arts are an expression of ideas through writing. Literary
arts can be categorized as poetry, prose, and drama. In the Philippines, literary arts are
greatly encountered in literature.
Literature
According to Lombardi (2020), literature is a term used to describe written and
sometimes spoken material. Derived from the Latin word literature meaning "writing
formed with letters," literature most commonly refers to works of the creative
imagination, including poetry, drama, fiction, nonfiction, and in some instances,
journalism, and song. These are some examples of Philippine literature.

Luzon Visayas Mindanao

• A Blade of Fern by • Panhayhay hin • Dead Stars by H.O.
Edith Ocampo Bungtohanon by Santos
• I Saw the Fall of the Francisco Alvarado • Indarapatra at
Philippines by Carlos • An Higugma by Sulayman by
P. Romulo Iluminado Lucente Bartolome Del Valle

Furthermore, there are also Philippine contemporary art forms that can be
described as performance arts. A person doing certain actions and movements in front
of an audience that go along with sound in a space and time is called Performing Arts.

Music and Theater

Music is a collection of coordinated sound or sounds. According to Ramon P.
Santos in his article entitles Contemporary Music, Contemporary music in the Philippines
usually refers to compositions that have adopted ideas and elements from twentieth-century
art music in the West, as well as the latest trends and musical styles in the entertainment
industry. Filipino Music had already a rich and unique musical tradition long before
westerners set foot on our native land. Music was present in every stage of our ancestors’
lives — from birth to death, in blissful or tragic times. Below are some Music from the
different Regions of our country.

Luzon Visayas Mindanao

Pastores Pinalangga Buyayang

Theatre is a collaborative form of fine art that uses live performers to present the
experience of a real or imagined event before a live audience in a specific place. The
performers may communicate this experience to the audience through combinations of
 gesture, speech, song, music, or dance. Some of the Theater Play in the Philippines are
the following.

Luzon Visayas

Tanikalang Ginto
https://www.flickr.com/photos/nccaofficial/18253662218/in/p
hotolist-CafXB-u3RAtb-tP1MQ7

Dance
Dance, the movement of the body in a rhythmic way, usually to music and within
a given space, for the purpose of expressing an idea or emotion, releasing energy, or simply
taking delight in the movement itself. Dances in the Philippines vary from Region to Region
and below are some dances of the different regions.
Luzon Visayas Mindanao

Banga Kuratsa Singkil

https://www.flickr.com/photos/kostastr https://www.flickr.com/photos/triggzbb/ https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/
ovas/5586665289/in/photolist-9vF7Xk- 27002593764/in/photolist-8Ct6ne- File:Singkil_dance_post_card.jpg
aqxtt6 H98mns
The Order of National Artist
The Order of the National Artists Award (Orden ng Gawad Pambansang Alagad
ng Sining) is the highest national recognition given to Filipino individuals who have
made significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts. The order is
concurrent administered by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)
and Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and conferred by the President of the
Philippines upon recommendation by both institutions.

The award is one of the Honors conferred by the Republic of the Philippines that
represents the nation’s highest ideals in the humanities and aesthetic expression
through the recognizable achievements of individual citizens. The said achievements are
measured in terms of their vision, unusual insight, creativity and imagination, technical
proficiency of the highest order in expressing Filipino culture and traditions, history,
way of life, and aspirations.

Under the Proclamation No.1001 dated April 27, 1072 the Order of the
National Artist Award (Orden ng Gawad Pambansang Alagad ng Sining was established.
It gives an appropriate recognition and prestige to Filipinos who have acclaimed
themselves and made a remarkable contribution to Philippine arts and letters. The first
award was given to Fernando Amorsolo. On May 15, 1973 under the Proclamation
No. 1144, CCP Board of Trustees was named as the National Artist Awards
Committee. The Presidential Decree No.28 that was issued on June 7, 1973 reiterated
the mandate of CCP to administer the National Awards as well as the privileges and
honors to National Artist.
 The Order of National Artists aims to recognize:

1. The Filipino artists who have made significant contributions to the cultural
heritage of the country.

2. The Filipino artistic accomplishment at its highest level and to promote creative
expression as significant to the development of a national cultural identity.

3. The Filipino artists who have dedicated their lives to their works to forge new
paths and directions for future generations of Filipino artists.

The following are the seven categories under which National Artists can be
recognized:

1. Literature – poetry, fiction, essay, playwriting, journalism and/or literary

criticism;
2. Film and Broadcasting / Broadcast Arts – direction, writing, production
design, cinematography, editing, camera work, and/or performance; and
3. Architecture, Design and Allied Arts– architecture design, interior design,
industrial arts design, landscape architecture and fashion design.
4. Music - singing, composition, direction, and/or performance;
5. Dance - choreography, direction and/or performance;
6. Theater – direction, performance and/or production design;
7. Visual Arts – painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, installation
art, mixed media works, illustration, graphic arts, performance art and/or
imaging;

Qualifications for the National Artist Award

The qualifications for a Filipino to be nominated and selected are rigorous. Below
are the qualifications for the National Artist Award.

1. Living artists who are natural-born Filipino citizens.

2. The content and form of their work have procured in building a Filipino
sense of nationhood.
3. An artist who have developed a mode of creative expression or style and
living a legend on succeeding generations of artists.
4. An artist who manifest excellence in the practice of their art form

5. The artwork made has attained an international and national recognition.

Insignia of the Order of the National Artists
The insignia of the Order of the National Artists is formed from a Grand Collar featuring
circular links depicting the arts and an eight-pointed sunburst suspended from a
sampaguita wreath in green and white enamel. The center of the badge is divided into
three equal portions, in red, white and blue representing the Philippine Flag with three
stylized letter K’s that stands for the CCP’s motto “ Katotohanan, Kabutihan at
Kagandahan “ ( The true, the good and the beautiful ). The Grand Collar is made
from silver gilt bronze.

National Artists of the Philippines

The following are the National Artists of the Philippines grouped according to their
categories and arranged to the chronology of National Artist Award:

Architecture

1973 Juan Nakpil

1976 Pablo Antonio
1990 Leondro V. Locsin
2006 Ramon Valera
2014 Jose Maria Zaragoza
2006 I.P Santos

Dance

1973 Francisca Reyes Aquino

1976 Leonor Orosa-Goquingco
1988 Lucrecia Reyes Urtula
2006 Ramon Obusan

Film

1982 Gerardo de Leon

1997 Lino Brocka
2001 Ishmael Bernal
2003 Eddie S. Romero
2009 Manuel Conde

Literature

1973 Amado V. Hernadez

1973 Jose Garcia Villa
1976 Nick Joaquin
 1982 Calos P. Romulo
1990 Francisco Arcellana
1997 N.V. M Gonzales
1997 Carlos Quirino
1999 Edith L. Tiempo
2001 F. Sionil Jose
2003 Virgilio S. Almario
2006 Bienvenido Lumbera
2009 Lazaro Francisco
2014 Cirilo F. Bautista

Music

1973 Antonio J. Molina

1976 Jovita Fuentes
1988 Antonio R. Buenaventura
1989 Lucrecia R. Kasilag
1991 Lucio D. San Pedro
1997 Felipe Padilla de Leon
1997 Jose Maceda
1997 Levi Celerio
1999 Ernani Joson Cuenco
1999 Andrea O. Veneracion
2014 Francisco Feliciano
2014 Ramon Santos

Theater

1987 Honorata " Atang" de la Rama

1997 Levi Celerio
1997 Wlfrido Ma. Guerero
1997 Rolando S. Tinio
1999 Daisy Avellana
2001 Severino Montano

Visual Arts

1972 Fernando C. Amorsolo

1973 Carlos " Botong" V. Francisco
1973 Guillermo E. Tolentino
1976 Victorio C. Edades
1976 Napoleon V. Abueva
1981 Vicente Manansala
1990 Cesar Legaspi
1991 Hernando R. Ocampo
1997 Arturo R. Luz
1999 J. Elizalde Navarro
 2001 Ang Kiukok
2003 Jose T. Joya
2006 Abdulmari Asia Imao
2006 Bencab
2009 Federico Aguillar Alcuaz
2014 Francisco Coching

Some works of Filipino National Artist

The works of National Artist can be found in different University Campuses.
One example is the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City. The known
school symbol is based on Oblation made by the sculptor Guillermo Tolentino. This
work of art depicts a male nude with arms outstretched that represents a gesture of
sacrifice and freedom. Guillermo Tolentino is a pioneer of academic tradition in
sculpture like Fernando Amorsolo in Painting. Fernando Amorsolo is known for its
romantic paintings of bucolic landscapes and idealized portraits of well-known
individuals from the Commonwealth Period and the Second World War. His works
can be seen also at the National Museum.Awarded in 1976, Napoleon Abueva had
contributed to the University’s Visual Arts Heritage.

In the Virata School of Business, Jose Tanig Joya’s mural can be seen entitled
Barter of Panay (1978). This work of art is rendered in the Abstract expressionist style
and it consists of soft, overlapping planes of black, white, orange, brown and golden
yellow. The Church of the Holy Sacrifice in UP Diliman which was inaugurated in 1955
was credited to be the First Catholic Church in the country that were able to employ a
circular architecture with a fine thin shell dome. Intricate mathematical computations
with the increasing popularity of concrete that serve as the building material enabled
the smooth rounded church construction. The said church is recognized as a National
Historical Landmark as well as a Cultural Treasure by the National Historical
Institute.

Jose Maceda’s Pagsamba involved a hundred mixed voices and indigenous

musical instruments like bamboo buzzers, clappers and the like. UP center for
Ethnomusicology was also founded by him where he donated his valuable collections
of sound recordings, field notes and the like in Ethnomusicology in the Philippines
and South East Asia. In line with this, he was recognized by the UNESCO Memory of
the World.
As envisioned in Republic Act No. 7355
Known as Manlilikha ng Bayan Act was established in 1992 and shall mean
citizen engaged in any traditional art uniquely Filipino, whose distinct skills have
reached such a high level of technical and artistic excellence, and have passed it
on to in his or her community with the same degree of technical and artistic
competence.

National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)

The highest policy and coordinating body for culture and the arts of the state.
It has to search for the finest traditional artist of the land who adopts a program that
 will ensure the transfer of their skills to others, undertakes measures to promote
a genuine appreciation of and crafts and give pride among our people about the
genius of Manlilikha ng Bayan.
The Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) Awardees
As Filipino who recognize the unique identities of our fellow Filipinos, it is the right
to see their contribution to the community. The country is rich with various elements of
tangible and intangible cultural heritage which has passed on the new generation.
Culture as part of our Philippine identity includes a variety of arts that enhance by
our National Living Treasure artists who are recognized in their special contribution
to the national heritage. These are Filipino citizen who is engaged in any traditional
art forms and has contributed to the development of cultural diversity and the creativity
of humanity.
Awardee Contribution Region
GAMABA Awardees for the year 1993

Surat Mangyan and Ambahan

poetry
Preserve the Hanunuo Mangyan Panaytayan, Mansalay,
script and Ambahan (poem Oriental Mindoro,
consisting of seven-syllable lines) Region IV-B
and promote it on every occasion MIMAROPA
so that the art will not be lost but
Ginaw Bilog preserved for posterity.
(d. 2003)
Photo Courtesy of NCCA

Epic Chanter and Storyteller

An outstanding master of the basal
(gong music), kulilal (highly lyrical
poem) and bagit (instrumental Pala’wan, Palawan
music played on the kusyapi), also Island,
played the aroding (mouth harp) Region IV-B
and babarak (ring flute) and above MIMAROPA
all, he was a prolific and pre-
Masino Intaray eminent epic chanter and storyteller
(d. 2013)
Photo Courtesy of NCCA

Playing Kudyapi
He achieved the highest level of Mamasapano,
excellence in the art of kutiyapi or Maguidanao, Western
kudyapi (two-stringed lute) playing Midanao
and also proficient in kulintang, Bangsamoro
agong (suspended bossed gong with Autonomous Region in
wide rim), gandingan (bossed gong Muslim Mindanao
with narrow rim), palendag (lip- (BARMM)
Samaon Sulaiman valley flute), and tambul.
(d. 2011)

Photo Courtesy of NCCA

GAMABA Awardees for the year 1998
T’nalak Weaving
She is credited with preserving her
people’s traditional T’nalak using
abaca fibers as fine as hair which T’boli/Lake Sebu, South
traditionally has three primary Cotabato, Mindanao,
colors, red, black, and the original Region XII
colors of abaca leave recreated by SOCCSKSARGEN
her nimble hands-the crocodiles,
butterflies, and flowers.
Lang Dulay
(d. 2015)
Photo Courtesy of NCCA

Inabal Weaving
She was awarded for fully
demonstrating the creative and
expressive aspects of the Bagobo Tagabawa Bagobo/
abaca ikat (to tie or bond) weaving Bansalan, Davao del Sur,
called inabal (traditional textile of Region XI
Bagobo) at a time when such art was Davao Region
threatened with extinction.
Salinta Monon
(d. 2009)
Photo Courtesy of NCCA

GAMABA Awardees for the year 2000

Playing Yakan Instruments
He referred to for his ability and
mastery in playing different Yakan
instruments (made of bamboo,
wood, and metal) and for imparting Yakan/ Lamitan, Basilan
his insight to the youngsters of his Island,
locale. He keeps on performing and Bangsamoro
instruct despite his diminishing Autonomous Region in
visual perception, keeping the Muslim Mindanao
Uwang Ahadas Yakan melodic custom alive and (BARMM)
thriving.
Photo Courtesy of NCCA

Chanting the Sugidanon Epic of

the Panay Bukidnon
He continuously works for the
documentation of the oral Sulod-Bukidnon/
literature, in particular the epics, of Calinog, Iloilo, Panay
people. These ten epics, rendered Island,
in a language that, though related Region VI
to Kiniray-a, is no longer spoken. Western Visayas

Federico Caballero

Photo Courtesy of NCCA

 Playing Kalinga Musical
Instruments
His lifestyle work is to paint a
portrait of his people to record a
tradition of opposites and dualities, Kalinga, Northern Luzon
a peoples’ character recorded in Island,
cadences each aggressive and Cordillera Administrative
gentle. Play Kalinga musical Region (CAR)
instruments dance patterns and
Alonzo Saclag moves related to rituals.

Photo Courtesy of NCCA

GAMABA Awardees for the year 2004

Mat weaving
She was recognized as the master Ungos Matata,
mat weaver. Her colorful mats with Tandubas, Tawi-Tawi,
their complex geometric patterns Bangsamoro
showcased her precise sense of Autonomous Region in
design, proportion, and symmetry Muslim Mindanao
and sensitivity to color. (BARMM)

Hajja Amina Appi

(d. 2013)

Photo Courtesy of NCCA

Metal Plating
He is an artist who has devoted his
existence to developing religious
and secular artwork in silver,
bronze, and wood. His intricately
detailed retablos, mirrors, altars,
and carosas are in church buildings Apalit, Pampanga,
Region III
and non-public
Central Luzon
collections. A range of these works
Eduardo Mutuc
are quite large, some exceeding
forty feet, whilst some are very
Photo Courtesy of NCCA
small and feature very nice and
refined craftsmanship.
Pis syabit Weaving
She remained devoted and
persevered with her mission to Tausug/ Parang,
teach the artwork of pis syabit Sulu,
weaving. Her strokes firm and Bangsamoro
sure, her color sensitivity acute, Autonomous Region in
and her dedication to the best of Muslim Mindanao
her products unwavering. (BARMM)

Darhata Sawabi
(d. 2005)
Photo Courtesy of NCCA
GAMABA Awardees for the year 2012

Abel Weaving
She has been a master in abel
weaving from Pinili, Ilocos Norte.
She is not only weaving traditional
Ilocano textiles but also designs new
patters. One of her designs employs
a difficult weaving technique called
pililian meaning partially. The
weave produces a one of a kind Pinili, Ilocos Norte
design that takes after a string of Region I
Magdalena flowers thus its name, inubon a Ilocos Region
Gamayo sabong. She did not formally study
such traditional art. Instead, she
Photo Courtesy of NCCA watched closely as her aunt made
and imitated the
patterns.
Kattukong or Tabúngaw Hat
Making
When he finishes fieldwork as a
farmer, he focuses on the cultivation
and development of tabúngaw San Quintin, Abra,
(Ilokano term for úpo). At the age of Cordillera Administrative
fifteen (15) he learned the art of Region (CAR)
Kattukong or tabúngaw hat making
and basket weaving from his
Teofilo Garcia grandfather.
Photo Courtesy of NCCA

GAMABA Awardees for the year 2016

Yakan Weaving
Apuh Ambalang, is significantly
respected in all of Lamitan. Her
ability is regarded unique: she can
bring forth all designs and
actualize all textile categories Lamitan, Basilan Island,
ordinary to the Yakan community, Bangsamoro
who are known to be among the Autonomous Region in
finest weavers within the Southern Muslim Mindanao
Philippines. She can perform the (BARMM)
suwah bekkat (cross-stitch-like
embellishment) and suwah pendan
Ambalang Ausalin (embroidery-like embellishment)
techniques of the bunga sama
Photo Courtesy of NCCA
category. She has the complex
knowledge of the whole weaving
process, mindful at the same time
as the cultural significance of each
textile design or category.
 B’laan Mat Weaving

Since she was a child, she was

bright and careful in tangle
weaving. Her perseverance took
place because of her supportive
husband. The thin strips of the Upper Lasang, Sapu
pandanus romblon (Pandanus Masla, Malapatan,
copelandii merr. Bariu) rise Saranggani
matrixed through deft fingers Region XII
performing an individual rhythm, SOCCSKSARGEN
the beat guided by her eyes. The
Estelita Tumandan unwoven strips are held tight at
Bantilan the other end of her body, as toes
curl and close around, not only
Photo Courtesy of NCCA these strips but, as it were, the
abstraction that other people call
design. The arc of her torso
determines the dexterity of feet
and toes. Hand/eye coordination
happens inside a frame of
milliseconds.

B’laan Ikat or Tie-dye Fabric

Weaving
Yabing Masalon Dulo, called as “Fu
Yabing”, was only fourteen (14)
years old when she started weaving.
All her younger years were spent in
sharpening her skills and imparting Amguo, Landan,
the knowledge to younger Polomolok, South
generations of B’laan weavers. Cotabato
Region XII
She follows her mother’s SOCCSKSARGEN
Yabing Masalon Dulo movements back and forth. She
colors the fibers, counts the thread,
Photo Courtesy of NCCA
and observes the rhythmic dance of
a weaver’s dreams woven
into unique soulful pieces.

THE PRODUCTION PROCESS AND THE CHANGING ENVIRONMENT

1) Tourism

Land areas are converted into sites for tourist consumption. In this situation, ecological
domains may become more vulnerable to damage with the combined forces of natural
disasters and tourist mobility. Moreover, tourist mobility might influence the
community’s observance of tradition and tend to diminish the quality of native art forms.
Removed from their original context, the works are transformed into mass produced
souvenirs in order to meet the demands of the tourist trade. Neon colors and designs woven
from synthetic fibers have been made available in recent years to create appropriations of
traditional textile designs for commercial purposes.
2) Militarization
The insecurity and tensions brought about by militarized zones apprehend the people’s
ability to create art. It prevents people from having communal gatherings, where exchanges
and passing of knowledge can take place.

3) Christianization
The influence of Christianity and the conversion of the natives to a foreign religion have
affect the preservation of their indigenous rituals and traditions. However, in some cases,
the community finds a way to harmonize their indigenous ways with traditions of
Christianity. For example, the Manobo community of Mt. Apo initiated a “culture
regeneration movement.” As Christian converts, they sought the revival of their traditions
by holding clan reunions, employing native wedding rites, and recalling narratives of their
culture through painting
1) Art Fair Philippines
Art Fair Philippines is the premier platform for exhibiting and selling the best
in modern and contemporary Philippine visual art. The fair aims to mirror
the vibrant local art scene and continue to generate support for Filipino art
practitioners (Dumandan, 2019).

2) ManilART
ManilART is the Philippines' premier international art fair. It showcases the
best in contemporary visual arts for the development and promotion of
Filipino art and culture locally and internationally. ManilART elevates the
standards and celebrates the dynamic Philippine art scene through various
art exhibitions connecting world class artists, institutions, and the
community. It reinforces the awareness of and the appreciation for
Philippine visual arts by merging it with other disciplines through lectures,
workshops, demonstrations, and other activities with the support from
both local and foreign exhibitors (Dumandan, 2019).

3) Finale Art File

Finale Art File is considered as a premier gallery institution in the
Philippines. It showcased hundreds of exhibits by some of the most talented
names in contemporary visual arts. It has successfully balanced the
demands of a commercial establishment and an artistic venue. This gallery
occasionally features experimental works that push artistic boundaries and
challenge audience expectation (Dumandan, 2019).

4) Kublai Art Gallery and Davao Contemporary Art Gallery

The Kublai Art Gallery and Davao Contemporary Art Gallery is a unique cultural
expression of Davao’s visual artists. The gallery showcases various works by
Mindanao’s famed artist Kublai Ponce-Millan, as well as different artists from
the city (Dumandan, 2019).

5) Thirteen Artists Awards

The Thirteen Artists Awards mark the turnings in and of Philippine
contemporary art, to update its modernizing potential and to assess how
artists today engage with other forces in the art world (Dumandan, 2019).