Traditional art refers to the artwork developed in the present period that reflects the new society by

using classical techniques in art, painting and sculpting. When the Spaniards arrived in the Philippines in
the 16th century, they brought with them artistic artwork. During this time, the Spaniards employed
paintings to disseminate Catholicism throughout the Philippines as a visual assistance for their religious
propaganda. Folk architecture, marine transport, notable sculpture in the Philippines, weaving, carving,
folk performing arts, folk (oral) literature, folk graphic and plastic arts, decoration, ceramics, and other
artistic representations of traditional culture are among the traditional arts in the Philippines.

One of the traditional arts that I like most is Juan Luna’s Spoliarium. It represents the Philippines and is a
symbol of our social, moral, and political life. It voices out the suffering of the people in the past. These
artworks becomes a symbol of action especially to the problems that our country is facing. It contributes
so much on modern art because it is one of the foundation of art in the Philippines.

As a student, I will show appreciation to the early traditional arts and symbols by applying the methods
and combining these techniques and symbols in my artwork.