WHAT IS ART

Our culture is increasingly dominated by images: learn to read and understand them fully.
"the use of skill and imagination in the creation of aesthetic objects, environments, or
experiences that can be shared with others"

ART came from the ancient Latin, ars which means a "craft or specialized form of skill, like
carpentry or surgery" (Collingwood, 1938).
Art has been created by all people at all times. Art involves experience. -Art is not
nature; nature is not art -Art is cultural
Art is a form of creation
Art is subjective.

ORIGIN OF ART
History of art begins with that of humanity It started from the early days of the cave men.
These cave men used animal blood and various earth colors on the rocks. Ancient
people used drawing to communicate with one another like in ancient Egypt.
They used picture symbols (hieroglyphic).

NATURE OF ART
Art is a diverse range of human activities –
Art represents reality. –
Art is an expression
Art matters
Art is universal
Art serves as a means of communication of emotions.

IMPORTANCE OF ART
Art leads humans to look beyond. –
It leads people to create for the sake of expression and meaning. –
Art can communicate information, shape our everyday lives, make a social statement
and it can be enjoyed for aesthetic beauty.
Art stimulates thoughts because allows viewers to draw their own emotions and pull from
their personal experiences when viewed.
Art teaches us important qualities such as listening, observing, and responding to
multiple perspectives.
FUNCTION OF ART
Personal Function
EDVARD MUNCH'S THE SICK CHILD The artist had a tragic childhood. His mother died
when he was very young and his sister died when he was 14. This work was meant to remind
viewers of personal family tragedies.
Social Function
Arts perform a social function when:
1. Influences Social Behavior It seeks to influence the collective behavior of a people.
2. Display and Celebration It is created to be seen or used primarily in public situation
like: fiestas, parade, etc.
Physical Function
A work of art created to perform some service that have physical functions. e (k)

IMPORTANCE OF STUDYING ART APPRECIATION

Students can learn to construct meaning and articulate their thoughts when they
express, in their own words, their personal opinions about what they are seeing, feeling,
and thinking.
allows students develop open mind understand more than just solution to problem.

FUNCTIONS OF AN ARTIST
Produce astonishing version of ordinary objects
Record & commemorate
Tangible form to the abstract
Form to feeling and ideas See the world in new ways

What's the difference between creativity and imagination?

Visual Arts
Something that is created and should be seen by people
1. Fine arts- rooted in drawing and design-based works such as painting, printmaking and
sculpture. Aesthetic beauty rather than value
2. Contemporary Arts- modern artform such as assemblage, collage, mixed-media,
conceptual art, happening and performance, fil based, photography video art and
animation
3. Decorative arts and Crafts- ceramics, mosaic art, glass art, tapestry

Medium and Techniques

Medium- material used by an artist to express his feelings or thoughts
Visual arts
Two-dimensional arts- painting and drawing
Three-dimensional arts- sculpture and architecture
Auditory arts
Sounds
 Technique- manner in which the artist controls his medium to achieve his desired effect
1. Oil painting- powdered colors are mixed with a fine oil
-Jan Van Eyck-father of oil painting
2. Mosaic- created by small pieces of colored glass, stone, or ceramic embedded in wet mortar
which has been spread over the surface to be decorated.
3. Water color-powdered pigments are mixed with gum- Arabic or a similar substance that will
help them stick to a surface. The artist then mixes them with water and applies them to aground
with soft brush.
4. Acrylic- artificial compounds develop in the 20th century.
5. Egg Tempera- form of paint that is created by mixing egg yolk with powdered pigments and a
little water

Subject of art- refers to any person, object, scene or event described or represented in a work
of art
1. Representational or Objective- represents object or event in the real world that are
easily recognizable
-It uses form and concerned with “what” is to be depicted in the artwork
2. Non-representational and Nonobjective- has no recognizable objects
It uses ‘content’ and concerned with ‘how’ the artwork id depicted

SOURCES OF SUBJECT OF ART

1. Nature
2. History
3. Greek and Roman Mythology
4. Oriental Scared texts
5. The Judaeo Christian tradition
6. Other works of art
LEVELS OF MEANING
1. Factual Meaning- literal meaning of the artwork which can be directly apprehend
because of the recognizable present object
2. Conventional meaning- special meaning that a certain object has in a particular culture
or group of people
3. Subjective meaning- any personal meaning conveyed by the artist using a private
symbolism which stems from his own association of certain objects, actions or colors
with past experience.

Performance Art

 Performance Art It is an interdisciplinary art form that brings together elements of time,
space, bodies, and audiences.
 creative activities presented with an audience on stage and in an open places
 they become combined arts.
 Can be live or via media
Four basic elements
1. Time -has duration
2. Space
3. Performer's body/ presence in a medium
4. Relationship between performer and audience

Performing Arts- include

 -Music
o Form of art whose medium is silence and sound. The common elements of
music include rhythm-indayog/pattern of sound, pitch-highness or lowness,
dynamics-loudness or softness, timbre-quality of the sound, and texture-
combined in the composition.
o an arrangement of sounds having melody, rhythm, and usually
harmony classical music. 2 : the art of producing pleasing or expressive
combinations of tones especially with melody, rhythm, and usually harmony I
want to study music in college. 3 : a musical composition set down on paper
Bring your music
o Vocal Music *It is the oldest and most cultural forms of music.
o *Voice is produced by the vibration of the vocal chords in the voice box. Since
the sound produced by, these vibration is not loud enough to be heard,
resonators (lungs, esophagus, head and mouth cavities) are needed to increase
its volume.
o Tori Kelly “It is well”

 -Opera
o Musicians and singers perform a dramatic work that combines text, which is
called the LIBRETTO AND MUSICAL SCORE.
o Usually done in an orchestra house and was accompanied by either musical or
semble or an orchestra
o OPERA * *This art incorporates a lot of elements of spoken theatre like scenery,
acting, costumes and even dance sometimes. - originated in 16th century in
Italy
o La Traviata- most played opera in the world with 871 performances

 -Dance
o This refers to the art of moving the body rhythmically and usually in accordance
to music
o It is used as a form of social interaction and expression, or it is commonly
presented in a performance or spiritual setting.
o Folk, Ethnic, and Ritual Dances *Ballroom Dances Ballet Break dancing &
Krumping

 Drama
o Mode of fiction represented in a performance.
o *Greek word "drao"-action
 o *Enacted by actors on a stage for an audience. "Oedipus the King" of Sophocles
(429 BC)
 -Spoken word
o Works that are intended to be performed by a single person who will speak by
himself naturally.

RENAISSANCE 
Methods of art production
1. Realism
*Attempts to portray the subject as it is Main function is to describe as accurately and
honestly as possible what is observed through the senses
*An artwork is realistic when the presentation and organization of details in the work
seem SO NATURAL.
Fernando Amorsolo- famous realism artist in the Philippines

2. Abstraction
*Abstract art moves away from showing things as they really are. It tends to be
geometric and does not represent specific objects found in the natural world.
Non-objective art
*Distortion-the subject is misshapen condition or the regular shape is twisted out
*Elongation-the subject is being lengthened, protraction or an extension
•Mangling-objects that are cut, lacerated, or mutilated
Wassily Kandinsky- one of the famous distortion artists

3. SYMBOLISM
An artistic and a literary movement that suggested ideas through symbols and
emphasized the meaning behind the forms, lines, shapes and colors.
According to Albert Aurier, the art should be:
1. Ideiste (Ideative)- It expresses an idea.
2. Symbolist- expresses idea through form
3. Synthetic-expresses the forms and signs in a way that is generally understandable
4. Subjective-the object is only an indication of an idea
5. It shall be decorative.
4. Fauvism
*A style of painting that flourished in France around the turn of the 20th century.
*Fauve artists used pure, brilliant color aggressively applied straight from the paint tubes
to create a sense of an explosion on the canvas. Their paintings weren't meant to closely mimic
nature as the impressionists had, but to use whatever colors necessary to express an emotion
or feeling..
*Louis Vauxcelles labelled the painters "Les Fauves" (wild beasts)
*First formal exhibition- Paris, 1905

5. Dadaism
*Zurich, Switzerland- began // WWI
*Its output was wildly diverse, ranging from performance art to poetry, photography,
sculpture, painting, and collage.
*The idea is more important than the work of art itself.
*Art an be made of anything. Marchel Duchamp (1887-1968)Avant Garde Artist
*Jean Arp (1887-1966) Poet and Sculptor

6. Futurism
*To capture the speed and force of modern industrial society *Glorified the mechanical
energy of modern life *Automobiles, motorcycles, and railroad trains express the explosive
vitality of modern city

7. SURREALISM
*Andre Breton- "Pope of Surrealism" "Fusion of elements of fantasy with elements of
modern world to form a kind of superior reality. " "Spontaneous writing"
*Emphasizes the activities of the subconscious state of mind
"Psychic automatism in its pure state by which we propose to express (verbally, in
writing, or in any other manner) the real process of thought. The dictation of thought, in the
absence of any control exercised by reason and outside any aesthetic or moral concerns."
(Leslie, 1997)
Salvador Dalis

8. EXPRESSIONISM
*Expressionist art tried to convey emotion and meaning rather than reality.
*In order to express emotion, the subjects are often distorted or exaggerated.
 *Colors are often vivid and shocking.
Emil Nolde
Elements of Arts and Principles of Design
Building block of design

1. Line
 A mark made upon a surface
 •The mark's length must longer that its width.
 Horizontal, Vertical, Wavy, Diagonal
 Two or three dimensional, descriptive, implied or abstract
2. Shapes

 *Areas of enclosed space that are two dimensional.

 *Flat, height and width
 Two different categories
o 1. Geometric- mathematical
o 2. Organic- come from nature

3. Space

 It deals with the illusion of depth on a flat surface.

 *Can be used in three-dimension art as well.
4. Value

 *Lightness and darkness of areas in art work.

 *White-lightest value *Black- darkest •Middle gray- value halfway
5. Color

 *Most prominent element of design

 *One of the most powerful yet subjective element
 *An element of art made up of three properties: hue, value, intensity
Hue- name of color
*Value- hue's lightness and darkness
*Intensity-quality of brightness and purity -High intensity- color is strong and bright -Low
intensity- color is faint and dull

6. Texture

 *Surface quality of an artwork

 *Roughness or smoothness of the material from which it is made
 *Optically and Physically

7. Form
 •Three dimensional and encloses volume;
 Includes height, width and depth *
 Free flowing
Principles of Design
Rules a designer must follow
1. Balance- distribution of the visual weight of objects, colors, texture and space.
2. Emphasis- part of the design that catches the viewer's attention.
3. Pattern-repeating of an object or symbol all over the work of art.
4. Repetition- works with pattern to make a work of art seem active.
5. Proportion-feeling of unity created when all parts relate well with each other.
6. RHYTHM-created when one or more elements of design are used repeatedly to create a
feeling of organized movement.
7. Variety- use of several elements of design to hold the viewer's attention and to guide the
viewer's eye through and around the work of art.
8. Unity-feeling of harmony between all parts of the work of art, which create a sense of
completeness.

The Development of Visual Art

Pre-historic Painting
  *40,000 BC-9,000 BC
 *animal, spear and other rudimentary materials
 *Drawn on caves, stones, and on ground *Cave paintings are also known as parietal art.
 Maltraviesco Cave, Caceres, Spain- oldest known cave painting

Medieval Period
1. Early Christian Art

 *Subject matters - symbols: cross, fish, lamb, alpha and omega,.grapes, doves,
triumphal wreath, saints and the virgin Mary, and martyrs.
 *Spiritual expressions took precedence over physical beauty and symbols were
emphasized.
2. Byzantine Art

 *Subject matters -Christ as the Creator and Mary as the Mother of God.
3. Gothic Art

 *Subject matters -religious and grotesque

 *More calm
 Madonna and Child gazing into other’s eyes in playful mood

Roman Art
1. Murals and Panel Portraits

 -Egyptian mummy portraits, prepared upon the subject's death for inclusion in burial.
 -Subject matters- commemorative status, sarcophagi; frescoes, design with vine motifs.
Renaissance Art

 Early renaissance (14th 15th century)

 *Simplicity, gestures and expressions
 Subject- man and nature in fresco technique
High Renaissance (16 century)

 *Center was in Florence, Venice, and Rome

 *Deepening of pictorial space, making the sky more dramatic with the dark clouds and
flashes of light.
 DA VINCI- chiaroscuro
 *Michaelangelo- dramatized the position of figures in his famous contrapposto.
Mannerism Period

 human figure
 use of oil painting and color
 *Colors were sumptuous, warm, and sensual
Famous Painters
*Giotto, Leonardo Da Vinci, Raphael Sanzio, Michaelangelo

BAROQUE ART

 *ornate and fantastic appealing to the emotion, sensual and highly decorative; with light
and shadow for dramatic effect.
 *The paintings showed figures in diagonal, twists, and zigzags.
 Famous painters- *Paul Rubens, Rembrandt, El Greco, Diego Velasquez, and Murillo

Rococo Art

 *originated in early 18th century in Paris.

 *soft colors and the lines and depicts scenes of love, nature, amorous encounters, light-
hearted entertainment and youth.
 picturesque, and intimate protection of farm and country.
 Famous painter- Watteau, Fragonard, Hogarth, Reynolds and Ingres

Romantic Art

 •Painter's reactions to past events, landscapes, and people.

 *Painting is richer than the Rococo Art.
 Francisco Goya- famous romantic artist: father of modern art

Modern Art (19th century)

1. Impressionists
PAUL CEZANNE- greatest impressionist and the Father of Modern Art
*Simplicity, brilliance, and perfect balance in art, brightness of colors and sense of depth in
art.
2. Expressionists
*VINCENT VAN GOGH- Father of expressionism
He used bright, pure colors mixed on palette but applied to the canvas in small dots or strokes
replying on the beholder's eyes to see them together
3. Simplicity in Art
*Paul Gauguin-simple in his artistic style
He studied the technique of craftsmen, applied these to his canvas, simplifying the outline of
forms but strong patches of colors.

VISUAL ELEMENTS IN PHILIPPINES | TRADITIONAL MOTIFS AND CRAFTS

Since the day man began to give shape to the materials provided by nature for meeting his
rudimentary requirements, he has never been able to resist the inward urge to adorn and
beautify his possessions and surroundings. All these efforts have led to the creation of motifs
from different origins, organizing them in suitable layouts. This gave the uniqueness to the
motifs used in traditional Indian textiles.

Decorative Motifs and Symbols Classification

There are times when we do not understand what is being meant by a word, a thought an act or
a thing. We need other things to describe them in order to properly understand their meanings.
This is particularly true when we are dealing with works of art and in the literary world. This is
why symbols and motifs are created: to help us understand.

Motif

A motif is an image, spoken or written word, sound, act, or another visual or structural
device that has symbolic significance. It is used to develop and inform the theme of a literary
work. The concept of a motif is related to a theme, but unlike a theme which is an idea or
message, a motif is a detail that is repeated in a patterm of meaning that can produce a theme
while creating other aspects at the same time.

It is closely related to a theme or a symbol and uses different narrative elements. lt is constantly
repeated to represent a dominant or central idea or theme in a work of art. It relates more to
thought which is used to support a theme.

Motifs typically are used in one of three ways:

1. A single object that appears multiple times throughout the work with most of the emphasis
placed on the item.

2. A collection of related objects that appear multiple times to emphasize the theme.

3. A collection of seemingly unrelated items that serve to draw attention to the theme in a
subtler manner.

Classification of Motif

The motifs or units of a textile design may be classified as: Geometric, Realistic or Natural,
Stylized, Abstract.

1 Geometric Motif. These motifs include lines in various form such as vertical, horizontal,
diagonal and curved. They form fabric designs such as stripes, plaids, checks and circles and
their associated designs. Geometric designs lead the eye in the design or pattern that is created
by them.

2 Realistic or Natural Motif. Natural motifs portray as direct replica of things as they exist in
nature, such as flowers on trees, animals in jungle, human figure and other natural things. They
are also called novelty patterns. As these motifs lack a designer's creativity and require three-
dimensional platform to copy reality, they do not find wide acceptance in apparel designing.

3 Stylized Motif- These are simplified variations of natural or man made objects that are no
longer recognizable. These motifs are full of creativity, as they are the result of a designer's
interpretation of naturally existing things. Stylized motifs are obtained by rearranging the real
objects either by simplifying or exaggerating them to achieve the purpose of the design.
4. Abstract Motif -These are combinations of color, size and shape without relationship to
natural or man-made objects. They are full of color and interest to the fabric. Abstract implies an
element of impression and a greater freedom that is found in most geometric designs. This type
of a design is used in modern art.

Symbol

The term symbol comes from the Greek word 'symbolon' which means contract, token, insignia
and means of identification (Encyclopedia Britannica 1997)

Through symbols, ideas and meanings are represented. In a symbol, there is both concealment
and revelation. Symbols facilitate communication by giving a common reference point for a
variety of original disparate ideas. Symbols are universal, in the sense they transcend history.

Symbols depicted on objects allow us to decode some of the meaning behind them and
understand better the cultures that made and used them.

On some occasions, the object itself, such as an item of clothing or a piece of regalia becomes
the symbol. The motivations behind the use of symbols are varied: to impose power, to assert
position, to protect the wearer or as identification with a family or community. Where not all
members of a society are literate, symbols are crucial in communicating ideas or affinities. They
can be representational or abstract, individual or repeated.

A symbol is an object, a picture, a written word, or a sound that is used represent something
else ether by resemblance, convention, or association.

Every language has symbols, in fact, our names are symbols that represent individuals. Words
and language in a broader sense are created by symbols by which humans communicate with
each other. Through our experiences and different sources, we create symbols in order to
explain and understand something that we have to interpret.

As symbols can be used to change the meaning of a word or phrase, they can change the way
we view things. To get the meaning of a word, it is necessary to use symbols so that it can be
understood well. The meaning of a symbol depends largely on its usage, it's history and
purpose

A very fine example ot a symbol is the cross. It is used to symbolize Christianity, the religion
which is based on the teachings of Jesus Christ who was crucified. The corss is also used to
remind Christians about how Christ suffered in order to save them. 

Types of Symbols

1. Iconograms are illustrative representations. They are iconic signs which, as an illustrative
representation emphasize the points in common between the signifier and the signified. 

2 Pictograms are pictorial representations, such as ISOTYPE. Pictograms are iconic signs
which represent complex facts not through words or sounds but through visual carriers of
meaning.

3 Cartograms are topographical representations with complex functions (statistics, etc) and
iconic facts, for example an atlas or the ground plan ot a house.
4. Diagrams are functional representations. They are visual signs which are partly iconic 
representations, but are more functional carriers that illustrate, for example, a sequence of facts
or functions.

5 Ideograms represent a concept. Typically, ideograms correspond to the sign as a symbol

which relates to the object concept referred to, independently of any format identification with it 
(Note that many symbols can fall into multiple categories, but the context and intention will help
us understand how to read them)

6. Logograms are conceptual representations like writing. They are visual, referential linguistic
signs that do not take the phonetic dimension into consideration.

7. Typograms are typographical representations. A typogram is a sign that is also composed of

a sign, derived from a written reportoire such as the alphabet.

8. Phonograms are phonic representations. A phonogram is a sign that is used to signify

linguistic or other sounds.

INDIGENOUS PHILIPPINE ARTS AND CRAFT

One of the most precious traditional livelihoods that are still kept until today is weaving.
Originating in the pre-colonial times, the art of weaving of the Cordillera tribal groups in the
Philippine North is still existing despite the threat of the more practical, mass production of cloth.
The natives use backstrap loom to produce blankets and articles of clothing. Pina cloth is also
produced in looms throughout the province of Antique. It is a delicate and exquisite hand-woven
cloth that is made from the fibers obtained from the leaves of pineapple plants. It is popularly
used in Barong Tagalog, the country's traditional formal mens' wear. With the organic and airy
textile being used, the barong is now becoming more popular around the world.

Abaca fiber derived from the abaca plant is widely grown in certain regions in the country. It is
woven mainly to make 'sinamay fabric and abaca rope, as well as specialty papers like vacuum
bags, currency, and tea bags. There are also handcrafts like bags, carpets and clothing made of
abaca.

Baskets are also made by the Cordillerans as livelihood. They also use these as storage for
food when they need to go to mountain terraces to raise crops. Certain types of baskets also
serve for carrying grains, for hunting animals, and for fishing in the streams. Bamboo baskets
are used as fish traps; the shape and size of baskets determine to the kind of fish to be caught.

Filipino potters make pots of different sizes, shapes, and designs, which are usually geometric
with stylized nature-themed motifs. Functional pieces are made as the need would arise. An
example of this is the 'palayok, which is used for cooking. "Banga' and tapayan are used for
storing liquids. There is also the clay-made stove or 'kalan

The 'burnay pottery in llocos Sur is still a lively tradition that continues up to the present.

Philippine sculpture is the most familiar art form among Filipinos. The most popular
woodcarvings are those of the anitos (nature gods), santos (saints), and statues of Christ and
the Blessed Mother.

Since the early 16th century, jewelry making in the country has been practiced in the country. It
is believed that the skills of the early Filipino jewelry-makers are adopted from their Asian
neighbors like the Chinese.
Jewelry making is traditionally a home-based industry. With government support, the Philippines
has come to be known for its exquisite gold jewelry. The more popular jewelry pieces are
actually made kf gold and silver. Rings, earrings, bracelets, brooches, pendants, necklaces, tie
pins, and cuff links (with or without gemstones) These precious metals are common. The
Philippines is also known for pearls and  semi-precious stones.  (FREEMAN)

VISUAL ARTS IN THE PHILIPPINES

Motifs and Symbols

Motif is an image, spoken or written word, sound, act or another visual or structural device that
ha symbolic significance.
4 classification of motif
1. Geometric motif
a. Stripes, checkered, lines
2. Realistic or Natural motif- direct replica of things// novelty pattern
3. Stylized motif- simplified variation of natural or objects that are unrecognizable
4. Abstract motif- combination of color, size and shape--- used in modern art

Symbol It is an object, a picture, a written word, or a sound that is used to represent something
else either by resemblance, convention or association.
Types of Symbols
1. Iconograms
2. Pictograms- complex facts
3. Diagrams- representations
4. Ideograms- concepts
5. Logograms- like writing
6. Typograms- typhographical representation,, alphabet
7. Phonograms- phonic representations

INDIGENOUS PHILIPPINES ARTS AND CRAFTS

Weaving
Pinya Cloth- province of Antique- used in Barong tagalog
Abaka Fiber- from abaka plant—bag, carpet, money, baskets
Jewelry Making

DEVELOPMENT OF PAINTING IN THEPHILIPPINES

Development of Painting in the PH Pre-Spanish Colonial Period Red slip (clay mixed with water)
designs embellished on the ritual pottery of the Philippines like Manunggul jar.
Painting are also manifested in tattoo tradition of Early Filipinos.
"Pintados or the Painted People"
Development Painting Spanish friars introduced Western painting in the Philippines.
Painting was limited religious icons.—subj matters is about portraits of saints, holy family, cros,
Christianity

Boholano painters were noted for their skillful manipulation of this technique.
Development of Painting in the PH In a church in Paete, Laguna- Josef Luciano Dans
artworks(1805-1870)
1. Langit, lupa at impierno
2. Purgatorio

In 1821, Damian Domingo-opened the first formal fine arts school in the country in his house. -
Known for having made the first self portrait in the country
Academia de Dibujo- school openef—formal finearts school

In 1823, Real Sociedad Economica Filipina de Amigos del Pais (Royal Economic Society of the
Friends of the Colony)- opened its own art school In 1826-the society offered Domingo to be the
professor in their school
In1850, under Jjunta de Commercio, a new art school'Academia de Dibujo y Pintura'was
opened with 70 enrollees. Paintings by Spanish master were brought in to serve as models
European academic style of painting- using grand subject matter from classical Greek and
Roman mythologies
Painting during the Modern Period Artists were set to sketch portraits for living. Igorots, Ifugaos
Bagobos and Mangyans were the favorite subjects.

ASIAN ART

The history of Asian art or eastern Art, includes a vast arrange of influences from various
cultures and religions. Developments in Asian art historically parallel in those in Western art, in
general a few centuries earlier. Chinese art, Indian art, Korean art, Japanese art, each had
significant influence on Western art and vice versa. Near eastern art also had a significant
influence on Western art. Excluding prehistoric art, the art pf Mesopotamia represents the oldest
forms of Asian art. 
Buddhist art 
Buddhist art originated in the Indian subcontinent in the centuries following the life of the
historical Gautama Buddha in the six to fifth century BCE before evolving through its contact
with other cultures and its diffusion through the rest of Asia and the world.
A common visual device in Buddhist art is the Mandala which represents schematically the
ideal universe.
Bhutanese Art
It is based upon Vajrayana Buddhism with its pantheon of divine beings. It is particularly rich in
bronzes of different kinds. Wall paintings and sculptures in these regions are formulated on the
principle ageless ideals of Buddhism art forms. 
Cambodian art
It has had a rich and varied history dating back many centuries and has been heavenly
influenced by India. In turn, Cambodia greatly influenced Thailand, Laos and vice versa.
Throughout Cambodia’s long history, a major source of inspiration was from religion.
Cambodians develop a unique Khmer belief from the syncretism of indigenous animistic beliefs
and the Indian religions of Buddhism and Hinduism. 
Chinese art 
This has varied throughout its ancient history, divided into periods by the ruling dynasties of
China and changing technology. Different forms of art have been influenced by great
philosophers, teachers, religious figures and even political leaders. Chinese art encompasses
fine arts, folk arts, and performance arts. Chinese art is art, whether modern or ancient, that
originated in  or is practiced in China or by Chinese artist performers.
Indian art 
This reflects certain religious, political and cultural development. The earliest examples are the
petroglyphs such as those found in Bhimbetka, some of them dating to before 5,500 BC. One of
the most popular art forms in India is called Rangoli. It is a form of sandpainting decoration that
uses finely ground white powder and colors and is used commonly outside homes in India.
The visual arts (sculpture painting and architecture) are tightly interrelated with the non-visual
arts. Classical Indian architecture, sculpture, painting, literature (kaavya), music and dancing
evolved their own rules conditioned by their respective media, but they shared with one another
not only the underlying spiritual beliefs of the Indian religion-philosophic mind , but also the
procedures by which the relationships of the symbol and the spiritual states were worked out in
detail. 
Indonesian art 
It has been shaped by long interaction between original indigenous customs and multiple
foreign influences. Indonesia is central along ancient trading routes between the far east and
the middle east resulting in many cultural practices being strongly influenced by multitude of
religions including Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism and Islam all strong in the major trading
cities. 
The result is a complex cultural mixture very different from the original indigenous cultures.
Indonesia is not generally known for paintings aside from the intricate and expressive Balinese
paintings which often express natural scenes and themes from the traditional dances.
Calligraphy mostly based on the Quran is often used as decoration as Islam forbids naturalistic
depictions. Some foreign painters have also settled in Indonesia. Modern Indonesian painters
used a wide variety of styles and the themes.
Japanese art 
This art is produced in Japan from the beginning of human habitation there, sometime in the
10th millennium BC to the present. Japanese art covers a wide range of art styles and media
including ancient pottery, sculpture in the wood and bronze, ink painting on silk and paper, and
a myriad of other types of works of art; from ancient times until the contemporary 21st century. 
Japanese painting is one of the oldest and most highly refined of the Japanese arts and
compassing a wide variety of genre and styles. As with the history of Japanese arts in general,
the history of Japanese painting is a long history of synthesis and competition between native
Japanese aesthetics and adaptation of important ideas. 
Korean art 
It is noted for its traditions in pottery, music, calligraphy, painting, sculpture and other genres
often marked by the use of bold color, natural forms, precise shape and scale and surface
decoration.
There are significant and historical similarities and interactions between the arts of Korea. China
and Japan. however recent scholars have begun to acknowledge Korea's own unique art,
culture, and important role in not only transmitting Chinese culture but assimilating it and
creating a unique culture of its own. An art given birth to and developed by a nation is its own
art.
Laotian Art
This includes ceramics, Lao Buddhist sculpture, and Lao music. Sculptures were created in a
large variety of material including gold, silver and most often bronze. Brick and mortar also was
a medium used for colossal images. Wood is a popular for small, votive Buddhist images that
are often left in caves. Wood is also very common for large, life size standing images of the
Buddha. Many beautiful Lao Buddhist sculptures are carved right into the Pak Ou caves. 
Nepalese Art
It represents the ancient and refined traditional culture of Kathmandu, for that matter in the
whole of Nepal, is an uninterrupted and exceptional meeting of the Hindu and Buddhist ethos
practiced by its highly religious people. It has also embraced in its fold the cultural diversity
provided by the other religions such as Jainism, Islam and Christianity. 

Thai Art 
It was traditionally and primarily Buddhist and Royal art. Sculpture was almost exclusively of
Buddha images while painting was confined to illustration of books and decoration of buildings
primarily palaces and temples. Thai Budda images from different periods have a number of
distinctive styles. Contemporary Thai art often combines traditional Thai elements with modern
techniques. Traditional Thai paintings showed subjects into dimensions without perspective.
The size of each element in the picture reflected its degree of importance. The primary
technique of composition is that of apportioning areas. The main elements are isolated from
each other by space transformers. This eliminated the intermediate ground which would
otherwise imply perspective. Perspective was introduced only as a result of Western influence in
the mid-19th century. 

Tibetan art 
This pertains to the art of Tibet and other present and former Himalayan kingdoms. Tibetan art
is first and foremost a form of sacred art reflecting the over-riding influence of the better decision
on these cultures. The Sand Mandala is a Tibetan Buddhist tradition which symbolizes the
transitory nature of things. As part of Buddhist canon, all material things are seen as transitory.
A sand mandala is an example of this, being that once it has been built and its accompanying
ceremonies and viewing are finished, it is systematically destroyed. 
Vietnamese Art
is from one of the oldest of such cultures in the southeast Asia region. A rich artistic heritage
that dates to prehistoric times and includes silk painting, sculpture, pottery, ceramics, wood
block prints architecture music, dance and theater. 
Traditional Vietnamese art is art practiced in Vietnam or by Vietnamese artists which was
strongly influenced by Chinese Buddhist art among other philosophies such as the Taoism and
Confucianism. The Art of Champa and French art also played a smaller role later on. 

Central Asian art has gained much fame. The literary visual and performing arts all together
form the central Asian contemporary art. Undoubtedly, the superiority of the central Asian art
has allowed it to become part of an international art forums. 
The central Asian art majorly comes from Turkic population descending from Tajikistan,
Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan and other regions of Central Asia. Significantly the
region of Central Asia is known for its diversified backgrounds in linguistics and cultures. This
certainly makes it the land giving birth to a wide variety of styles in contemporary arts. 

The Development of Islamic Art in the Philippines

In the 13th century, traders and missionaries have introduced the religion of Islam in the
Philippines. Islamic art meshed with ethnic culture and produced a Filipino Muslim art that
reflects the ethnic background and Islamic identity of the people. During the Spanish
colonization and American occupation, Islam has been concentrated mostly in the South but this
did not halt the flourishing of Islamic art. Global development, however, exposed the Filipino
Muslims to its Middle Eastern roots, who have become their main source of representation of
Islam's art.

Art of Filipino Muslims

Islamic art in the Philippines is found predominantly in Muslim ethnic groups where every group
offers their own distinct flavor of Islamic art. This distinct art is commonly seen in homes,
clothing and places of worship of Filipino Muslims.

Islamic art is characterized by geometric designs and patterns eliciting focus from the believers.

Islamic art is characterized by designs of flowers, plant forms and geometric designs. 1t is used
in calligraphy, architecture painting, clothing and other forms of fine art. As Islam spread around
the world, this distinct form of art has become an integral part or the identity of its followers,
including the Philippines.

Mosques in the Philippines have a common architectural feature similar with its Southeast Asian
neighbors. It is made of light materials,-wood, bamboo, and cogon grass and was used in the
building of the early types of mosques but these light materials did not last long. Today's
mosques, however are now structurally patterned after the design of its Middle Eastern
counterparts (Madale, 2003).

One characteristic of Islamic art is the absence of human form. This tradition comes from the
belief that any figural representation should not be used for the purpose of worship. This is
evident in the architectural design of mosques in Mindanao where calligraphy is used as the
main form of expression. However, it is always kept in a minimum.

The only reminders of Filipino Muslim art inside mosques is the traditional art form known as
Okkir.

This art form is believed to be of Hindu and Chinese influences. Okkir uses geometric and floral
artwork.

One popular motif of this art form is the use of an imagery of a dragon or serpent.

There is other figural representation in Filipino Islamic art such as the buraq, a winged horse
with a head of a woman. This imagery relates Prophet Muhammad's ascension to heaven.
There is also the other famous creature-the sarimanok, a symbol for bravery and nobility.

The Sarimanok is a legendary bird of the Maranao people who originated from Mindanao, an
island in the Philippines. It comes from the words sari and manok. Sari means cloth or garment,
which is generally of assorted colors (Wikipedia).

Philippine Muslim homes represent their identity therefore Islamic art is seen in their houses.
These houses usually contain framed calligraphy of Quran passages in its walls.

These ornaments usually are made from Muslim dominated countries like Malaysia, Egypt and
Saudi Arabia brought home by overseas Filipino workers as mementos of their pilgrims.

Clothing reflects the style and colors of their ethnic background. A design related to Islam that is
used in the Philippines is the batik cloth design. This kind of design traces its influence from
Indonesia. It contains abstract themes with geometric and floral design. However, human and
animal depiction is a rare motif in batik.

Today, Filipino Muslims believe that following dress requirements shows their Muslim identity.
But they have now considered the Middle East as reference for the proper Muslim dress.
Traditional design is still present in modern dresses however the overall look now follows
according to how Muslims have dressed globally which is loose and more open to western
influences.

For a long time, Islamic art in the Philippines has been linked to its ethnic background. But
globalization has contributed to the changes in the visual expression of Islamic art. From
developing an art that is centered in ethnicity, there has been a shit in the adoption of forms and
styles. House ornaments have been imported from other Muslim countries and outfits. Dresses
that were once limited to ethnic background have now been linked to the global Muslim style
referencing the Middle East. And even the reconstruction of mosques now uses sturdier
materials that are inspired by modern Islamic design.

Christian Art

When the Spaniards arrived in the Philippines in 1521, the colonizers used art as a tool to
propagate the Catholic faith through beautiful images. With communication as problem, the
friars used images to explain the concepts behind Catholicism, and to tell the stories of Christ's
life and passion. Images of the Holy Family and the saints were introduced to the Filipino
psyche through carved santos, the via crucis (Stations of the Cross), engravings on estampas
and estampitas, and through paintings on church walls.

The influence of the Christian religion is manifested through the arts and social functions of the
society, among the art forms that the influences can be seen are in architecture, music,
literature, and other visual arts. The religion became an instrument for the creativity of Filipinos
to flow in.

Though the ethnic art forms such as pottery, weaving and metalwork were retained, the Spanish
friars and the Chinese, the colony's primary trading partner were slowly introducing newer art
forms. Icons brought by the friars were used as models for sculpture. Filipino artisans were
taught the Chinese brushwork technique in painting. Engraving was also introduced.phonic

Since most art produced during the first two centuries of Spanish occupation were for the
church, the friars enforced strict supervision over their production. Until the 19th century, art was
only for the church and religious use.

Sculpture and Architecture

Of all the new art forms introduced, the natives took to sculpture instantly.

The carving of anito was transformed into sculpture of the saints. These santos were used
primarily for the church altars and retablos. It also replaced the anitos in the altars of the native's
homes.

Carvings for churches include altarpieces called retablos (usually with niches for the icons), the
central point of any Catholic church. The retablo houses the tabernacle and the image of the
town' s patron saint. Usually referred to as a "cabinet of saints" one would see a hierarchy of
saints depending on their importance to the towns people. The patron saint would be in the
middle; less important saints would be in the periphery. The most elaborate retablos can be
seen in the San Agustin Church in Intramuros. 'Jesus institute the Eucharis' ,- relief in Calaca
Church, Batangas,

Other parts of the church that may have carvings are church doors, pulpits, and carrozas (floats
that carry the saints for processions). The façade of churches may be carved from adobe, coral
stone, and volcanic rock, among others. It may have carved images of saints, floral decorations
or leaf decors. In the case of the Miag-ao Church in Iloilo, the façade is decorated with a carved
image of St. Christopher carrying the Christ Child on his shoulders under a coconut tree.

Most of the architectural formation that is influenced by Christianity is profound on the

Churches. Next structure would be on schools that are originally founded by Catholic
missionaries that preached Catholicism. Later on, the influences entered on Filipino houses that
mixed up with the knowledge of Chinese feng shui.

The early houses that were built during the Spanish eras include a place for worship called the
altar. It is also common that these houses contain statues of different saints, images of Mary
Christ, and other religious items.

The churches, if not, emphasize colors; they contain different ornamentations that accentuate
the religiousness of the place. These churches contain sculptures of saint images made of ivory
or wood, accented with jewelry and handmade costumes. The walls are decorated with murals
or mosaics that are prominent Christian churches. These murals depict some stories in the
Bible, most commonly the 12 Stations of the Cross. Sculptures of angels and saints can also be
seen as ornaments and functional design. Examples of these are angels as water basin and
saints as pillars in chapels.

Like in the early western civilization, Christianity has influenced the creation of biblical inspired
sculptures. An example of this would be the EDSA Shrine wherein the historical People Power
Movement in 1986 took place.
Graphic Arts

Engraving was introduced in the 1590's by the Spanish colonizers. In 1593, the Dominicans
published the La Doctrina Christiana en la Lengua Española y Tagala (The Christian Doctrine in
the Spanish and Tagalog Language), first book printed in the country. On it was a woodcut
engraving of St. Dominic by Juan de Veyra, a Chinese convert.

The religious orders owned printing presses and printed mostly prayer books and estampas.
The estampas (prints of miraculous images) usually featured portraits of saints and religious
scenes. Estampas andestampitas (smaller version of estampas) were distributed during town
fiestas to the natives.

Francisco Suarez (ca. 1690- ca. 1762) and Nicolas de la Cruz Bagay (1702-ca. 1765)
collaborated to depict landscapes, genre scenes and flora and fauna on the borders of maps
commissioned by Fr, Murillo Velarde in 1733. These were probably the first secular images
done in the country. The two also illustrated the pasyon written by Gaspar Aquino de Belen
entitled Mahal na Passion ni Jesu Christong Panginoon Natin Na Tola (The Holy Passion of Our
Lord Jesus Christ in Verse), possibly the first pasyon written in the country. (ncca.gov.ph)

Contemporary Art

Contemporary art is the art of the present, which is continuously in process and in flux. The
distinction of modern art and contemporary art could also be a matter of perception and
reception depending on the context. Art is the expression of one's feelings through creating
something out of their imagination.

Art is both a product and a process of a creative decision of an artist in his or her attempt to be
involved in a dialogue and to articulate his or her motivations for creation- be it the medium,
style, subject, form, etc

Contemporary art is art produced at the present period in time. Contemporary art includes and
develops from Postmodern art which is itself a successor to Modern art.

The '70s is historically, a cultural turning point for the Philippines. It was when art institution
were built by then Fist Lady Imelda Marcos (same institutions that we have now, or at least
some of it); it was the time when  conceptual art entered the Philippine art scene and a
"movement with a good number of artists today adhere to, to emphasize their contemporariness
versus the traditional.

With the advent of modernism, many Philippine arts were developing  particularly in the field of
sculpture where there is a shift in sculptural process which led to an almost complete freedom of
materials and process. A wide variety of materials may be worked by removal such as carving
assembled by welding or modeling, or molded, or cast. Foremost of which is Solomon Saprid, a
modern Philippine sculptor who became known for his works in bronze which he created by
welding scraps of metal producing a characteristic jagged effect.

In architecture, architect Francisco Mañosa, designer of the coconut palace, built his own two-
storey bahay kubo mansion in Ayala Alabang village, a wealthy suburb south of Manila. With
only 3 posts or haligi, it has five one-inch coconut shell doors, a silong, Muslim room, sala, and
master's bedroom with a fish pond therein.

The turning point in the development of contemporary art in the Philippines was the
establishment of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). In 1965 Former first Lady Imelda
Marcos had revealed her desire to build a national theater for the country. The Cultural center of
the Philippines is located on a reclaimed land along Roxas Boulevard. The Cultural Center of
the Philippines was designed by Leandro V. Locsin and it is also considered as one of his most
recognizable works.

In the early 19th century, wealthier, educated Filipinos introduced more secular Filipino art
causing art in the Philippines to deviate from religious motifs.

The use of watercolor paintings increased and the subject matter of paintings began to include
landscapes, Filipino inhabitants, Philippine fashion, and government officials. Portrait paintings
featured the painters themselves, Filipino jewelry, and native furniture. The subject of landscape
paintings featured artists' names painted ornately as well as day-to-day scenes of average
Filipinos partaking in their daily tasks. These paintings were done on canvas, wood, and a
variety of metals. During World War II, some painters focused their artwork on the effects of
war, including battle scenes, destruction, and the suffering of the Filipino people.

INDIGENEOUS ART 
(Additional Information with what I had sent you before) 

Philippine indigenous arts are as diverse as its islands, as complicated as its waterways, as
varied as its  languages and as unique as its people. Throughout the 7,107 islands the
Philippine archipelago has, it  offers unique places and cultures where all forms of arts and
crafts can flourish, some can be considered  spectacular by the outsider, such as the Ifugao
rice terraces that native Ifugaos built by hand, our own  version of the Great Pyramids. But
there are still some that could be considered as taboo by other cultures,  such as the distinctive
tattoos tribal headhunters have. Philippine arts may not be as popular as other  Asian arts such
as Japanese and Chinese, but it doesn't mean that it is any less spectacular. 

The arts scene of the indigenous people of the Philippines may not be as popular as the arts of
other Asian  countries, but it no means diminishes the variety, originality, and creativity of the
Filipinos. They have  time and again shown that Filipinos can be with the best of the world
when it comes to the arts field. The  ambiance of being in islands may have given so many
inspirations to at least attempt to capture and  recreate the powerful and spectacular forces of
nature to the best they can, and also during times of need  use it to help them get their basic
necessities, not only implying that visual arts is purely for entertainment  and decoration, but
also for practicality and use. They personify the enduring Filipino spirit of  perseverance in face
of adversity, of diligence in duty and triumph in failures. 

It is believed that the first inhabitants of the Philippines arrived over many thousands of
years ago. It is  commonly thought that they migrated over a land bridge, which existed at
that time, from the Asian  mainland. 

The next known inhabitation is when the Negrito or Aeta arrived in the islands. 

However, they were driven back by several waves of immigrants from Indonesia, only to be
followed by  the maritime people of the Malayan islands. Each of these people brought with
them their culture and art. 

Indigenous Philippine art is art made by the indigenous people of the Philippines. It includes
works in raw  materials such as extract from trees, fruits, and vegetables. Some of the art
treasures of the Philippines are  found in rocks, in caves, trees and woods.  
Some of these indigenous arts are: 

1. Architecture 

Wander over the world heritage site, Banaue Rice Terraces, Eighth Wonder of the World,
carved from  the high Cordilleras over 2,000 years ago. These rice terraces were carved out
of the mountains by the  native Ifugao people. The Ifugaos made the walls out of hardened
mud and clay while they flattened the  slopes it could hold water essential for rice growth. It
had been the way of life of the Ifugao mountain  tribes for the past 2,000 years, kept alive up
to this day. 

2. Sculpture 

Sculpture is three-dimensional artwork created by shaping or combining hard materials,

typically stone  such as marble, metal, glass, or wood, or plastic materials such as clay,
textiles, polymers and softer  metals. Carving is one of the techniques used in sculpture.
In the north, the indigenous tradition of sculpture survived the zealous proselytizing of the
Roman  Catholic Church only among the mountain people. The most important type of
sculpture, in its quality,  quantity and continuing use, are the wooden bulul or bulol carved by
Ifugao craftsmen of Mountain  Province, Luzon. Often made in pairs, male and female, bulul
represent guardian deities and are placed in  rice granaries to ensure beautiful rice. 

3. Weaving 

Weaving means to make cloth. Threads or strands of material are passed under and over each
other. 

Weaving in the Philippines has different forms, functions and materials. They also vary in
design and  techniques used. Most of the common forms of weaving in the Philippines are in
the form of hats, mats,  bags, baskets and textiles (clothes and blankets). 

This brought the ikat technique of resist-dyeing of the wrap thread before weaving, the use of
the reel for  winding the spun thread and the concept of using textiles in death ceremonies.
Weavers were further  influenced by imported materials: they imitated the new designs,
integrating them with their traditional  textiles. Weaver immigrants appear to have brought the
ikat technique to the Isinai and Ifugao people of  Luzon. Their ikat designs appear on cotton
warp in black, once dyed with rice field mud, later with indigo.  One specialty is the producton in
Kiangan and Dupax, Luzon, of narrow G-strings used to clothe the dead. 

4. Pottery 

Pottery are objects that are first shaped of wet clay, then hardened by baking. Pottery includes
both  decorative and practical items such as bowls, vases, dishes, and lamps. Pottery in the
Philippines varies in  forms and functions. The forms of the pots are directly influenced by the
functions of the pots and the  tradition of the community or local area. Filipino potters make
pots of different sizes, shapes, and designs,  which are usually geometric with stylized nature-
themed motifs. Functional pieces are made as the need  would arise. An example of this is the
palayok, which is used for cooking. Banga and tapayan are used  for storing liquids. There is
also the clay-made stove or kalan. The burnay pottery in llocos Sur is still a  lively tradition that
continues up to the present. 

5. Body Adornment 
Physical ornamentation can be categorized into three areas specifically the use of traditional
costumes  (textile), jewelries and tattoos. The designs vary depending on the location, users
and function of the  ornaments. Since the early 16th century, jewelry making in the country has
been practiced in the country.  It is believed that the skills of the early Filipino jewelry-makers
are adopted from their Asian neighbors  like the Chinese. Non-Muslim peoples in Mindanao
decorate their colorful and distinctive costumes with  glass beads, shells and metal bells and
chains. Their jewelry materials include coral and fibers; forms of  jewelry include earplugs as
well as earrings. Old beads are highly prized, especially agate beads among  the Kalingas,
and lgorot girls are given a head ornament of agate beads before they reach puberty. Ifugao 
men wear tooth necklaces, believed to impart good luck, and the Ubus wear etched shell
amulets to  protect them. Necklaces made from roots and barks are worn by them to ward off
sickness. 
World renowned Visual Artists and Performing Artists 

1. Michelangelo (1475-1564) Michelangelo is regarded as the greatest sculptor and painter of

all time. He  was a major figure of the Renaissance in Italy, especially in Florence and Rome.
Even today, some of his  marble carvings have a flawless beauty. Michelangelo is popularly
known for the Italian Renaissance  sculpture as well as the Sistine Chapel frescoes, among
other incredible works of art. 

2. Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Pablo Picasso, the founder of cubism, is one of the most
influential artists  in history. He was a sculptor, printmaker, painter, and ceramicist. He
produced several of the greatest  paintings of the 20th century. Born to a painter father,
Picasso received all the needed encouragement to  build a successful painting career. This
gave him the privilege to study art in some of the finest art schools  in Spain. 

He was among the 250 sculptors who exhibited the 3rd Sculpture International held in
America. His style  and technique was exceptionally prolific throughout his lifetime, producing
a total number of 50,000  artworks, including drawings, paintings, and sculptures, among
others. Of all forms of art, Picasso  excelled most in painting. 

4. Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519) Leonardo was born in Florence, Italy. Despite living several
centuries ago, he still remains one of the most influential artists of all time. His only training
was in the field of science and he was apprenticed at an early age to a renown Florence
painter of the time. Leonardo was regarded as an intellectual in his lifetime because of his
passion for science. Leonardo's contributions to  the art world were small, but two of his
paintings are the most popular today: "Mona Lisa" and "The Last  Supper," which is the only
surviving fresco of Leonardo da Vinci. 

The fact that his interest ranged beyond art could have been the reason why his input was
very small. In  his lifetime, so engrossed was he in physics and mechanics, that he created
workable artistic designs for  bicycles, among other things. 

This is what is popularly believed to be the cause of his failure to complete several of his
paintings and art  projects. There are also credible reports that he spent a significant amount of
time thinking and testing  scientific laws, as well as writing his observations about them. 

5. Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890) 

Born in the Netherlands, van Gogh was a beskable painter whose works of art are still sold
at  unbelievable prices across the world today. His contribution to art was basically
painting. He created  many still-life paintings, several of them were portraits of friends and
acquaintances. In all, van Gogh  completed about 800 paintings. One thing that
distinguished him as a painter was his grasp for color  relationship and unique brushwork.
His work is still a great source of inspiration for several  impressionists all over the world. 

6. Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) was a German composer and pianist, who is
arguably the  defining figure in the history of Western music.The earliest recorded piece that
Beethoven composed is a  set of nine piano variations, composed in 1782. Beethoven's Ninth
Symphony, the 'Choral' from 1824, is 
another work of his that has remained infinitely popular. It was the first time that a composer
had used  choral voices in a major symphony.  

7. Wolf Amadeus Mozart 

Mozart is recognized as one of the best classical composers of all times, with repertoire
spanning opera to  symphonies. Mozart had an incredible ability to remember music, he
famously heard Allegri‟s Miserere  aged fourteen when visiting Rome. Later that day, he wrote
it down entirely from memory, returning to  the Chapel that Friday to make minor corrections.
Despite his short life, his rapid pace of composition resulted in more than 800 works of virtually
every genre of his time.  

Known Filipino Contemporary Artist and Works 

1. Maningning Miclat. She was known for her Chinese bamboo Zen Paintings and
poetry in three  languages: Filipino, Mandarin and English. 

2. Benedicto Reyes Cabrera better known as "BenCab", is a Filipino painter and was
awarded National  Artist of the Philippines for Visual Arts (painting) in 2006 

3. Jose Joya was a printmaker, mixed media artist and a former dean of the University of the
Philippines  College of Fine Arts. He pioneered abstract expressionism in the Philippines. His
canvases were  characterized by "dynamic and spontaneity" and "quick gestures" of action
painting. 

4. Onib Olmedo was an award- winning expressionist Filipino painter. He created

populist art and  depicted the marginalized part of the society. 

5. Napoleon Isabelo Veloso Abueva, more popularly known as Napoleon Abueva, is a

Filipino artist. He  is a sculptor given the distinction as Philippines' National Artist for Sculpture.
He is also entitled as the  "Father of Modern Philippine Sculpture". He is the only Boholano
given the distinction as National Artist  of the Philippines in the field of Visual Arts. 

6 Glopez Kabayao, a Gawad CCP Awardee for Music in 2008 has been playing the violin
tor Filipinos  for decades now. His passion allowed him to visit various concert venues in the
country and share this  love for classical music to several generations. 

7. Victorio C. Edades is a Filpino painter who was the leader of the revolutionary Thirteen
Moderns who  engaged their classical compatriots in heated debate over the nature and
funchon of art. He was named a  National Artist in 1976. 

8. Arturo Rogerio Luz is a Philippine National Artist awardee in visual arts. He is also a
known  printmaker, sculptor, designer and art administrator. A founding member of the
modern Neo-realist  school in Philippine art, he received the National Artist Award, the
country's highest accolade in the arts,  in 1997. 
9. Abdulmari Asia Imao, a native of Sulu is a sculptor, painter, photographer, ceramist,
documentary  film maker, cultural researcher, writer, and articulator of Philippine Muslim art
and culture.
10. Eduardo Castrillo is an award-winning Filipino sculptor He was born in Santa Ana,
Manila, the  youngest of five children of Santiago Silva Castrillo, a jeweler, and Magdalena De
Los Santos, a leading  actress in zarzuelas and Holy Week pageants in Makati, Philippines.
Castrillo was a Republic Cultural  Heritage awardee. He is also a jewelry artist and designer. 

11. Solomon Saprid was a modern Philippine sculptor who became known for his works in
bronze which  he created by welding scraps of metal, producing a characteristic jagged effect. 

12. Lea Salonga-Chien, known professionally as Lea Salonga, is a Filipina lyric mezzo-
soprano singer  and actress who starred in the lead role of Kim in the musical Miss Saigon, for
which she won the Olivier,  Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics and Theatre World awards. She
was the first Asian to play the roles of Eponine and Fantine in the musical Les Miserables on
broadway. She also provided the singing voice of  two official Disney Princesses: Jasmine in
Aladdin (1992), and Fa Mulan in Mulan (1998) and Mulan ll  (2004) Salonga was named a
Disney Legend in 2011 for her work with the company. 

13. Cecile Licad is a renowned Filipina virtuoso classical pianist dubbed as 'a pianist's
pianist" by The  New Yorker, "her artistry, a blend of daring musical instinct and superb
training". 

Famous Filipino Painters and Composers 

1. Fernando Amorsolo (1892-1972) Labeled the country‟s first National Artist in 1972 by
then  President Marcos, Fernando Amorsolo is often known as the „Grand Old Man of
Philippine Art‟.  The Spanish-trained realist developed a backlighting technique, where his
colorful depictions of  local people reflect the radiance of the Philippine sun. The figures
and illuminated landscapes  magically glow on the canvas. Despite his deteriorating health
and failing eyesight, he remained  prolific until the end, producing up to 10 paintings a
month until his death at the age of 80.  Amorsolo‟s creativity defines the nation‟s culture
and heritage to this day. 

2. José Joya (1931-1995) A Filipino pioneer of Abstract expressionism, multi-media

painter José  Joya uses bold and vibrant colours with a variety of painting techniques,
layering, loose impasto  strokes and controlled drips. His harmonious colours are
influenced by Philippine landscapes and  tropical wildlife. His mastery lies in gestural
paintings, where the paint is applied spontaneously  on canvas, sometimes directly out of
the tube or through the use of broad strokes with brushes. 

3. Vicente Silva Manansala was a Filipino cubist painter and illustrator. One of the first 
Abstractionists on the Philippine art scene Vicente Manansala is also credited with
bridging the  gap between the city and the suburbs, between the rural and cosmopolitan
ways of life. 

4. Juan Luna – “Ilocano Filippino Painter”, Political activist of the Philippines Revolution
during  the late 19th century. He‟s one of the first recognized Philippine artists. One of his
famous works  is the Spoliarium.  
5. Carlos V. Francisco also known as Botong Francisco was the second Filipino to receive
the title  of National Artists in Painting in 1973. He is one of the first Filipino modernist.
Francisco‟s art is  a prime example of a linear painting where lines and contours appear
like cut outs. He single handedly brought back the art of mural painting in the Philippines.  
Composers
1. Felipe Padilla de León was a Filipino classical music composer, conductor, and scholar.
De  Leon was credited for being the "Crisis Composer" of the Philippines, having served
under 13  different presidents as chief advisor on culture and music and being part of
multiple regimes and  shifts in Philippine politics.  

His march “May Bagong Silang” contains a passage that similarly echoes the national
anthem.  Another song, “Ang Bayan Ko'y May Dangal, Puri't Kagitingan,” conveys the
noble sentiments  of the folk song “Inday sa Balitaw,” expressed in a haunting hymn. 

2. Antonio Jesús Naguiat Molina was a Filipino composer, conductor and music
administrator. He  was named a National Artist of the Philippines for his services to music.
He was also known as  the “dean of Filipino composers,” and Claude Debussy of the
Philippines due to his use of  impressionist themes in music. He wrote over 500 musical
compositions, including “Hatinggabi”  and “Awit ni Maria Clara,” and taught some of the
country's musical icons like Lucresia Kasilag  and Felipe de Leon. 

3. Lucio San Pedro is a master composer, conductor, and teacher whose music evokes the
folk  elements of the Filipino heritage. His valuable contributions to original Filipino music
included  his compositions “Sa Ugoy ng Duyan” and “Lahing Kayumanggi.” San Pedro
was given the title  professor emeritus by the University of the Philippines College of Music
in 1979.