Carlos Botong Francisco, National Artist for Visual Arts

by Freeway, 2012

About the National Artist

Carlos V. Francisco ((Nov. 4, 1912-March 31, 1969) was born and raised in Angono, Rizal. He was affectionately
called Botong by his family and friends.

Botong spent his college years at the University of the Philippines School of Fine Arts and during those days,
specifically in 1959 he was the recipient of a Most Outstanding Alumnus award that gave an honour to his alma
mater. On the contrary, he did not finish his degree and was forced to work. Later on before the war, he became a
professor at the University Of Santo Tomas School Of Architecture and Fine Arts.

Botong Francisco single-handedly revived the forgotten art of mural and remained its most distinguished practitioner
for nearly three decades. He was best known for his works which evidently depicted some of the countrys impactful
historical moments. His pieces evoke a feel of our culture and tradition with vibrant colors and hues that capture his
audience. Restorer Helmuth Josef Zotter once said that Botongs art is a prime example of linear painting where
lines and contours appear like cutouts.

He was one of the first Filipino modernists who revolutionized art and deviated Fernado Amorsolos romanticism of
Philippines scenes. His works certainly attest his flawless skill in painting; some of whichare Blood Compact, First
Mass at Limasawa, The Martyrdom of Rizal, Bayanihan, Magpupukot, Fiesta, Bayanihan sa Bukid, Sandugo, Portrait
of Purita, The Invasion of Limahong, Serenade and Muslim Bethoral.

Botong also spearheaded in the discovery of the popular Angono Petroglyphs in 1965. He also had a brief stint in
designing costumes for Philippines cinema. This year 2012, together with many institutions and museums, Freeway
celebrates Botong Franciscos 100th Anniversary.

He was rewarded as the National Artist for Painting, considered as the greatest muralist of the country and 1964
Republic of the Philippines Cultural Heritage awardee. Hailed as Philippine National Artist for Visual Arts in 1973.