UNIVERSITY OF MAKATI

J. P. Rizal Ext., West Rembo, Makati City

HIGHER SCHOOL NG UMAK
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SCIENCE
Course Title Title
CONTEMPORARY PHILIPPINE ARTS Module No. 3
A Brief History of Philippine Art
FROM THE REGIONS
1. explain the timeline of Philippine arts;
Learning Objectives 2. illustrate the development of arts in the country; and
At the end of this lesson, the students should be able to: 3. create an abstract collage showcasing the art forms dominant in
each period of Philippine art history.

What is Philippine art? What makes Filipino work of art distinct from
foreign artworks? How did our art pieces’ progress then and now?
The Philippines has developed and accumulated various
works of art even prior to our colonization up to the present
era. Consequently, the country's artworks have reflected
the wide range of cultural influences from our ancestors,
INTRODUCTION

colonizers, and development through time. Thus, Philippine

art comprises different art classifications and can be
categorized into two distinct branches: traditional arts and
non-traditional arts.

The previous module has introduced us to the description of art and its functions in society and
the people. The different classification of art forms and styles were also introduced and pioneers
of contemporary arts in the Philippines.

In this module, we will be discussing what Philippine art is and what makes Filipino works of art
distinct from other art pieces. In addition, the progression of how the country's artworks were
developed will also be discussed in this module.

The Development of Philippine Art

The history of the Philippines from 1521 was marred with a series of invasions and occupations
from the coming of the Spaniards to the Americans and the Japanese in the Second World War.
Freedom was regained only after the liberation from the Japanese in 1946 at the end of the war.
Our history was a story of four centuries of conquest as a nation.

These events have genuinely influenced our culture, behavior, and thinking as a people. Thus,
Philippine art is no exception to the vast influence it got from our colonizers. As a result of the
colonization, the artworks produced after that possessed the Renaissance, Baroque and Modern
CONTENT

Periods qualities. Below is the timeline of Philippine art history.

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 Filipinos are very social people, which is reflected in their art, especially in their traditional art.
Though our colonizers and most especially the West does have a tremendous influence on
contemporary art, particularly with the movements and the techniques, in its heart, Philippine
contemporary art is an example of integral arts which is essentially communal and unitive in
nature. This means that art is often created and conceived by artists considering the society and
community they live in. Filipino art often gives more importance to how it affects the artist's society
than its impacts on the individual. Filipino Art is many instances intended to unite the community
and hopes to create cooperative action rather than individual change.
Pre-Conquest or Pre-Colonial Arts
These are reflections by which the natives of these islands have expressed their culture and
civilization. These are proofs that the earliest inhabitants of these islands were learned people even
before the coming of the Spaniards.
Literature
Our pre-colonial, ethnic literature is a rich repository of ideas and cultural practices evident in folk
speeches, folk songs, folk narratives, indigenous rituals, and dances that show our ties with our
Southeast Asian neighbors.
Folk Speeches
These riddles include the talinghaga or metaphor that "reveals subtle resemblances between two
different objects" and therefore test the keen analytical ability of the listener. Like the tigmo in
Cebuano, bugtong in Tagalog, paktakon in Ilongo and patototdon in Bicol.

Proverbs or Aphorisms
These encapsulate the rules of conduct and community beliefs which instill values through short
verses with rhyme that is full of wisdom. Such is the tanaga, which has insights and lessons on life
CONTENT

according to life experiences. The basahanon from Bukidnon and daraida and daragilon from
Panay.

Folk Song
This is a folk lyric expressing the relationships and lessons about people's aspirations in the
community. They are often repetitive, sonorous, didactic and naive as in the children's songs from
Maguindanao, known as the Ida-ida, tulang pambata from the Tagalog region, and cansiones
para abbing from among the Ibanag. The lullabies or Ili-ili from Iloilo, harana or serenade from
Cebu and the ambahan among the Mangyans. They also include work songs depicting livelihoods
such as the kalusan from the Ivatan, the soliranin, a Tagalog rowing song, or the Kalinga rice-
pounding song known as the mambayu.

Folk Narratives
These are epics, and folk tales such as legends explain the world's origin, places, animals, and other
creations. For example, fables are narratives about the origin of animals relating lessons or morals,
such as the Monkey and the Turtle, which is about the slow-moving but quick-witted turtle which
has outwitted the quick but dull-witted monkey. On the other hand, epics include the Darangen
from Maranao, Hudhud from Ifugao, and Ulahingan from the Manobo. These epics narrate heroic
deeds and unusual events while embodying a particular community's beliefs, customs, norms, and
ideals. They are either presented through a song or chants accompanying musical instruments
while individuals perform dances. Most prominent among the epics are the Bi-ag ni Lam-ang from
the Ilocanos; Darangen from the Maranao; Hinilawod from the Sulod; Kudaman from Palawan
and the Tudbulol from the Tboli.
Decorative Art or Crafts
1. Pottery
This is one of the most ancient arts during the pre-colonial Philippines. The
Manunggul Jar was excavated in Palawan during the 8th century BC and
reflected a high degree of artistry. This huge burial jar has two prominent
figures at the top handle of its cover representing the soul's journey to the
afterlife. Its design is geometric with nature motifs. Manunggul Jar

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 2. Weaving
It evolved from the pre-colonial communities and has been a traditional
source of living. Communities from the Cordillera of the north are well-
known for this art. They produce textiles and blankets with a backstrap
loom for daily needs, rituals, and religious rites. A similar tradition is
evident in the Ilocos provinces and even in Mindanao among the T’boli
of Cotabato through weaving abaca cloth known as the 'tnalak' done
T’nalak by the T'boli
through the tie-dye process.

3. Jewelry Making
Pre-colonial dwellers adorn themselves with highly intricate ornaments
made of precious metals such as gold. Communities from the Cordillera
have the ling-ling-o, which signifies fertility. The T’boli wear the most
exquisite embellishments made of brass, such as multicolored beads for
neckpieces, earrings, bracelets, and anklets. These body ornaments
Lingling-o or ling-ling-o
please the gods as well as signify social status.
Visual Arts
1. Sculpture
Carving in the Cordilleras focus on the Anito figures called the bulul,
which they believe has their ancestral spirits and gods. In the south, the
Maranao and Tausug have their okir, which are ornate curvilinear
designs carved in woods, such as the sarimanok is a bird painted in
multi-color, and the pako rabong, which is a fern with a broad base.
Bulul by the Ifugao

Performing Arts
1. Dances
These are performed during special occasions such as birth, baptism,
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circumcision, puberty rites, courtship, weddings, during illness and

death. Tribal activities also require such art and include hunting, fishing,
rice planting, harvest time, and engagement in tribal wars. During these
rituals, a mandadawak, bayok, catalonan, or babaylan enters a trance
while the shaman offers sacrifices. The Tagbanua of Palawan ritual is
performed by dancing and shaking both hands with the ugsang or palm
leaves. Similar to this are the tribal dances of the Aetas of Zambales. It
considered proto-dramas and playful imitations of animal movements
such as the monkey and fish. In Mindanao, the hawk dances are
performed by the Higaonon as well as the monkey and butterfly dances
of the Tausug and Samal in Sulu. These rituals and dances express pre-
colonial beliefs and reflect the indigenous people's activities and Tagbanua of Palawan
material culture. These plays develop a stronger sense of cohesion performing Pagdidiwata'
among the tribal members for collective welfare.

Spanish Colonial Arts

The coming of the Spanish Conquistador signaled the beginning of cultural transformation
through the use of the 'Sword and the Cross.' Divide and rule were implemented through force
to subjugate the native dwellers of these islands. But the most fleeting strategy was the
utilization of Christianity to maintain the submission of the natives for more than 300 years to
the Spanish crown. Religion and faith became reflected in the practice of arts under the
supervision of the Friars.
Literary Arts
1. Poetry
Religious poetry during Hispanic rule was either Lyrics or Narratives. Ladinos or interpreters
translated Spanish verses into Tagalog and were used in Catechisms. An example was the Dalit
poems, which have no fixed rhyme scheme, identifiable only by their solemn tone and spiritual
topic. The Pasyon on the other hand, is primarily religious narrative poetry that recounts the
suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

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 Another prominent secular poetry is the metrical romance known as the awit and korido,
which are colorful tales of chivalry from Europe. The Awit and Korido are made for singing
and chanting, such the Ibong Adarna and Francisco Balagtas' "Florante at Laura," a metrical
romance.
2. Prose
Religious narrative prose consists of those written to prescribe proper
behavior. They were channels for instruction in the Catholic faith and
colonialization of the students in all Catholic schools. An example of this
is the Manual de Urbanidad or conduct book, which consists of
standards on social propriety in proverbs, maxims, dialogues, and short
illustrative tales of devout behavior. Modesto de Castro's Pagsusulatan
nang Dalauang Binibini na si Urbana at ni Feliza in 1864 shows how a Modesto de Castro's
Dialogo or Dialogue shows how behavior can be learned through an Urbana at ni Feliza
exchange of insights.
3. Printing
This was done through the xylographic method using woodblocks. The
Spaniards have published the first book, the Doctrina Christiana en
Lengua Española y Tagala (Christian Doctrine in the Spanish and Tagalog
Languages), the Doctrina Christiana en Letra y Lengua China (The
Christian Doctrine in the Chinese Script and Language), and the Apologia
por la Verdadera Religion (In Defense of the True Religion) published by Doctrina Christiana
the Dominican order in 1593.

Visual Arts
1. Sculpture and Architecture
These art forms were manifested by building churches in every town and
CONTENT

plaza all over the archipelago. It exhibited the combination of indigenous

design and European classical or baroque.
This was evident in the stone carvings on the facade of the Miag-ao
Church in Iloilo. Silver ornaments were found in the altars and the Miag-ao Church
carrozas or floats that carried the images of Santos in procession. Santos
or holy statues are carved and crafted following European aesthetic
canons' and church supervision. Santos are carved from wood by the
natives to embellish the interiors and exteriors of churches, houses, and
other structures. The grandest achievements in this manner are the
retablos or altarpieces, which are the centerpiece of the churches. Retablo by Juan
Similar to this is the one found at the San Agustin Church in Intramuros de los Santos
carved in 1617 by Juan de los Santos from San Pablo, Laguna.
2. Painting
During Spanish rule, the focus of painting was the religious icons, saints,
and religious scenes were evident in the stone walls and ceilings of the
churches, monasteries, schools, chapels, 'conventos' or Friar residences.
The most prominent of the Filipino artists during these times as they
excelled abroad, specifically in Europe, were Juan Luna on his 'Spoliarium'
and Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo on his 'Christian Virgins Exposed to the Spoliarium by
Juan Luna
Populace,' which won in 1884 in the Madrid Exposition.

Two Filipino Art Styles Developed During the Spanish Colonial Period

1. Miniaturismo
The works of painters like Simon Flores, Antonio Malantic, and Justiniano
Ascunsion captured the intricately designed jewelry and fashion accessories,
the minuet details of the embroidered clothes, and ornately designed
domestic furniture of the patrons. The painstaking attention to minuet
details characterized miniaturismo.

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 2. Letras Y Figuras
Letras Y Figuras (letters and figures), a style developed by Jose Honorato
Lozano, combines both tipos del pais and genre paintings by forming the
letters of the patron’s name from figures of people in local costumes doing
everyday activities. It also utilized landscape scenes as background.

American Colonial Arts

The coming of the Americans marked profound changes in Philippine arts as the introduction of
public education brought forth literacy and the further Westernization of the Filipinos. The brief
but highly influential Americanization of the natives has positively or negatively impacted Filipino
life and culture.
Literary Arts
The development of the free verse, modern short stories, and the critical
essay written in English. As English became the medium in the American
run schools’ writer's consciousness was highly cultivated. The arrival of the
Americans altered the course of Philippine literature. Its influence was
significantly carried out through the educational system, which imposed
English as the medium of instruction. The University of the Philippines
became the center of modern writing through the College Folio and The
Literary Apprentice. Jose Garcia Villa, a National Artist, posited his idea
“Art for Art's Sake,” which inspired other Filipino writers to use the
vernacular or native languages published in the Liwayway and Bisaya,
Liwayway
Hiligaynon and Bannawag.'
1. Free Verse
This became a hallmark of modern poetry through the writing of 'Like the
CONTENT

Molave' by Rafael Zulueta da Costa, 1940, which topped all other entries
in the Commonwealth Literary Contest. Da Costa's writings delved into
socio-political issues, denouncing westernization, the neglect of the
masses, and the young Filipinos' immaturity.
2. Filipino Novels
These were written in English and have proliferated as literature was
infused with American pop culture. Realist tradition was promoted by
Lope K. Santos through the 'Banaag at Sikat in 1906, Francisco
Laksamana's Anino ng Kahapon, l 906 and Ilaw sa Hilaga in 1946. Though
the Filipino novel in English was scarce, it has still enriched Philippine
literature through free verse and literary criticism.
3. Essays
The entry of modernism provided an alternative to the conventions. Essays as an offshoot
flourished in formal, informal, and even humorous formats as promoted by Carlos P. Romulo,
Jorge Bocobo, etc. These essays embarked on the social, political, and economic realities of
those times.
Performing Arts
1. Theater
The American Colonial traditions highly influenced Philippine theater as seen in the 'Bodabil'
introduced in the 1920s from the U.S. Vaudeville is a comedy skit with songs and dances
showcasing anything popular in America. Because of these Filipino performers as they
imitate the original become natural 'Americans.' We were also exposed to the "legitimate"
theater in the schools for the upper classes. Such Western plays were the Shakespearean
tragedies and comedies. Later were the Broadway plays such as 'Annie' and 'Evita.' Indeed,
the Bodabil and the Western plays became very effective in Americanizing' the Filipinos.
However, Filipinos still used these realities to create playwrights that focus on the problems
of the individual and society—the likes of Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero's Three Rats in 1948 and
Nick Joaquin’s ‘A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino’ in 1955 depict the tragedy of two
unmarried sisters in the Spanish City of Intramuros, who are 'little brown Americans' clinging
to European culture.

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 Visual Arts
The American colonial strategy was implemented through the public school
system. In the visual arts, illustrations and cartoons for the American
controlled textbooks and publications became necessary for distribution in
public schools. Advertising and commercial designs, landscapes became in
demand. Fernando Amorsolo, with his tropical genre, became famous for
his backlighting, which cast golden tones on the natural green scenery,
creating an emotional atmosphere. Many illustrations threw sarcastic and Tinikiling Sa Barrio by
Fernando Amorsolo
critical impressions on the colonial system
1. Sculpture
Guillermo Tolentino, who earned his education from Rome and his
student Napoleon Abueva became significantly prominent in this art
form. They have worked with a wide variety of materials and techniques.
His personal preference is wood, mainly narra and molave. However,
they also worked with various types of metal-brass, bronze, and
aluminum. Notable works include the Oblation found in the country's
premier State University, reflecting discipline, order, symmetry, and
restraint with classical ideals. Its arms wide open knowledge that will
bring change. Tolentino is also best known for his masterpiece, the Oblation by
Bonifacio Monument found in Caloocan, Metro Manila. Other sculptural Guillermo Tolentino
works include the busts and life-size figures of presidents Manuel
Quezon and Sergio Osmeña.
2. Painting
Amorsolo and Edades introduced modernism in this form of art, the first
Filipino painters who have captured bright, sparkling colors and the
CONTENT

bursting sunlight in their artworks. Most paintings depict the rural life of
working men and women, either farming or fishing. Paintings were also
utilized for commercial purposes, such as in advertising and commercial
products. On the other hand, Victorio Edades painted those that depict
people in sweat and grime working. The figures were distorted and
naked. His artworks were considered the first-ever modernist painting
as they effectively show the working class's hardships in the Philippines The Sketch by
during his time. Victor Edades

Triumvirate of Philippine Modern Art

 Victorio Edades
 Carlos “Botong” Francisco
 Galo B. Ocampo
Victorio C. Edades' paintings mainly were distorted human figures in rough, bold impasto
strokes and standing tall and singular in his advocacy and practice of what he believes is the
creative art. He emerged as the "Father of Modern Philippine Painting." He became the
Dean of the Department of Architecture at the University of Santos Tomas. During this time,
he introduced liberal arts program that offers subjects such as art history and foreign
languages that will lead to a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts. This time, he invited Galo B.
Ocampo and Carlos "Botong" Francisco to teach in the said university. The three, who
would later be known as the formidable "Triumvirate," led the growth of mural painting in
the country.
Japanese Colonial Arts
The coming of the Japanese from 1941 to 1945 curtailed the further proliferation of the English
language as the government prohibited it. However, during the Japanese occupation, Filipino
literature was given a chance to flourish, specifically in the form of literary works.

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 Literary Arts
1. Poetry
The usual theme was about the love of country, rural life, religion, and arts in poetry. The
most common was the Haiku which is a poem of the free-verse. It is short but covers an
extensive meaning. Similar to this is the Tanaga, which is short but with rhyme and
measure.
2. The Short Story
This literary form became progressive during the Japanese occupation.
Brigido Batungbakal, Macario Pineda, Liwayway Arceo, Nestor
Vicente Madali or NVM Gonzales and Gloria Guzman wrote the best
short stories which gave rise to Narciso Reyes' Lupang Tinubuan;
Liwayway Arceo's Uhaw and Tigang na Lupa and NVM Gonzales'
Lunsod, Nayon at Dagat-Dagatan. As evident, these short stories focus
on Nationalism as well as the concerns of national interest during the
Japanese occupation. Some journalists, however, were known for their
writings in English, such as Leon Ma. Guerrero, Raul Manglapuz, and His Native Soil by
Juan C. Laya
Carlos Bulosan were suppressed by this prohibition. They wrote
propaganda reiterating their nationalist sentiment, which was against the continued rule of
the Japanese. The most prominent writers include as well Rafael Zulueta da Costa, who
wrote "Like the Molave', Juan Laya on 'His Native Soil' and President Manuel L. Quezon's
autobiography 'The Good Fight.'
Performing Arts
1. The Drama
These experienced setbacks as most movie houses showing American films became venues
for stage shows. As a result, many of the plays shown were reproductions of English plays
translated into Tagalog. During this time, the 'Dramatic Philippines was established by
CONTENT

Francisco Soc Rodrigo, Alberto Condo, and Narciso Pimentel. Some play writers include Jose
Ma. Hernandez and Julian Cruz Balmaceda.
2. Music
Japanese music was imposed and heard in radio broadcasts. These were also taught in
public schools despite the inattention of the Filipino students. In addition, the Japanese
government held lectures on Oriental music to allow Asian and not Western music
appreciation. The Metropolitan Theater became a significant venue where concerts were
held as a form of entertainment for the Filipinos. Opera and in general, classical music
flourished during these times, which even gave rise to the Philippine Philharmonic
Orchestra, comprised mainly of Filipinos
Visual Arts
1. Paintings
These art forms were used to produce materials for propaganda. Leaflets, flyers, and posters
were graphically designed to carry out propaganda slogans sending messages pushing for
cooperation between Japanese and Japan, the imposition of Nihongo, and warding off
American influences. These artworks were dropped from Japanese planes over Manila and
the rest of the country. Meanwhile, several Filipino artists clamored for independence and
national identity. They focused on the subject matter, content, and form, which gave rise to
modern painting, especially with the popularity of Victorio C. Edades, Carlos V. Francisco,
also known as 'Botong Francisco', and Galo B. Ocampo. Botong's Art was depicted through
fluid lines and brilliant colors such as the ‘First Mass at Limasawa' while Ocampo's
'Flagellants' fused the figures of penitence and Lent with images of the war.
2. Sculptures
Luz and Eduardo Castrillo created large-scale outdoor sculptures while others produced
abstract, minimalist, and geometric sculptures. Local materials were used, such as burlap
and coconut shell. Abstractionists prominent during the Japanese occupation are Nestor
Vinluan and Phyllis Zaballero, both works on figures with elements and colors that are
symbolic and of high emotions. Sculptures during those times manifest the absence of peace
and the presence of chaos, as evident in the distorted and emotional figures.

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 Postwar Arts
The Philippines obtained liberty from the Japanese and Americans. This is a period when the
Philippine literature flourished. This era was also celebrated as the "Recovering Era" where
Filipino literature was given a break and had the time to transition from American style to
modern style. The post-war event had an impact on influencing new literary themes with its new
symbolism and communication modes. This was when Filipinos learned to express themselves
more confidently and proudly.

Post-war poetry and fiction were dominated by the writers in English

educated and trained in writers' workshops in the United States or England.
Among these were the novelists Edilberto and Edith Tiempo (who is also a
poet), short-fictionist Francisco Arcellana, poet-critic Ricaredo Demetillo,
poet-fictionist Amador Daguio, poet Carlos Angeles, fictionists N.V.M.
Gonzales and Bienvenido N. Santos. Most of these writers returned to the
Philippines to teach. With their credentials and solid reputations, they The Day the Dancers
influenced the form and direction of the next generation mainly by the Came by
Bienvenido N. Santos
dominant tenets of the formalist New Critics of America and England.

The 1950s also saw the development of modern architectural

structures, particularly churches that modified or veered away from
traditional cruciform designs. Examples within the UP Diliman campus
include the Church of Holy Sacrifice. The Church of the Risen Lord,
made use of both employed concrete as the main material and rounded
or parabolic forms as experimented materials. Another unique example
of an architectural art piece during this time is the Chapel of St. Joseph
the Worker built by the Czech-American architect Antonin Raymond in
Victorias, Negros. The church showcased a remarkable mural of Christ
CONTENT

The Angry Christ by the Filipino-American artist Alfonso Ossorio. The artwork referred to
by Alfonso Ossorio
as the Angry Christ. The mural delivers visual overload, filling up the
walls and ceiling of the altar space. Distinct from most Christ figures, the brilliant use of color,
the jagged angularity of the rendering, and the use of flame-like motifs bring to mind the visual
spectacle of Bacolod's Masskara Festival. The church is a curious combination of modern
architecture with a minimalist character and modern painting expressive of folk sensibilities.

Another category of Modern Art that emerged more definitively during the period was an
abstraction. This generally consists of simplified forms, which bypass mimetic representation. It
is sometimes referred to as non-representational or non-objective art. It emphasizes the
relationships of line, color, and space or the flatness of the canvas rather than an illusion of
three-dimensionality.

Contemporary Philippine Arts

Contemporary art exists parallel to the beginnings and rise of Globalization. Hence, as most
artists in the past focused on national and local concerns, the artist in the contemporary period
is much affected and influenced by the globalized world, which brought forth the widening of
perspective beyond the bounds of one's own country. As a result, art became liberated from
discrimination brought by race, ethnicity, and creed at this juncture. Furthermore, technological
development facilitated more significant opportunities to express one's artistry in a more
distinctly unique manner.
The Nature of Contemporary Art
Contemporary art comprises expressive art in several forms created and produced in the
present, specifically in the 21st Century or roughly from the 1960s to the current period. Aside
from those that we commonly known as visual art, such as paintings, sculpture, and the like,
digital art has also become a unique way of expressing creative emotions using modern tools.
Contemporary art is a breakaway from the established mode of expression. The materials used
the subjects in focus, and the unique ideas challenged the classics as they went beyond the usual
nature of art and expression. Abstraction and symbolism became the essential feature of the
new era in artistry.

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 Symbolic creative expression became the fundamental nature of contemporary art as it became
a free-spirited and distinct trait of the modem environment.

Contemporary as Postmodernism
The end of modernism is the beginning of the contemporary period in the evolution of Philippine
Art. Contemporary is the point where artists liberated themselves from the nature of what is
considered modem after the Second World War. The Modern Period in Philippine Art began
after the war, specifically with the creation of the Art Association of the Philippines (AAP), which
has evident leaning with the Modernist rather than the Traditional or Conservatives called the
Amorsolo School.
Contemporary art has distinct characteristics that cannot be considered akin to what is
considered modem. Postmodernism signifies the Filipino artists' opportunity to curtail the limits
set by modernism. The use of new media and the hype created by technology gave rise to
Conceptual art, Performance art, Feminist and Installation art. The continuous development of
innovative media and technology allowed Contemporary art to surpass the characteristics of
Modem Art.
Contemporary Art as Integrative
Integrative art is an activity that motivates a learner to express his emotions through optimal
use of his senses. It produces in the learner the enthusiasm to create and manipulate elements
that can express his sentiments as triggered by his sensory experiences. The same is a product
of the integration of arts in the learning experience of the individual that requires the use of the
following processes:
1. Perceptual cognition
This requires the learner's cognitive ability to process the information derived from the
external environment as received by his senses whether he sees it, hears it, feels it, tastes
it, and smells it. Their personal experiences and observations lead to their unique
CONTENT

perception.
2. Metaphorical modes of thinking
Every individual recreates realities according to their own experiences. They construct
abstractions that create a general idea that provides more meaning and sentiment to the
given reality or insights.
3. Use of alternative forms of communication
One can express their sentiments, emotions, and feelings in varied ways. Traditional
methods can be modified, while innovative methods can ideally produce the artist's desired
effect to convey their message.

At present, it is considered that the schoolroom can be a perfect environment to apply

integrated arts to enhance students' learning experiences. For example, discussing art collection
becomes more experiential and exciting if the teacher can bring the students to the Museum
and discuss actual artworks such as those of Juan Luna and Felix Resureccion Hidalgo than just
opening the book on Art Appreciation. The experience can be so profound that the students can
actually write an essay about it and research the created artwork's fundamental concepts. Such
is the integration of art with history, language, and the like. Furthermore, contemporary thinking
has considered that there is something similar and parallel between subjects found in varied
fields; the use of arts can make learning more engaging, interactive, creative, and highly
innovative, which permits experiential hi-impact learning among the students. Such is evident
in promoting hybrid art, new media art, and web-based art, which significantly stimulates
learners to learn more.
Contemporary Literary Arts
1. Mga Ibong Mandaragit (1960)
A novel was written by Amado V. Hernandez, a social activist who wrote about the struggle
of the Filipino to uplift his life. The setting reflected Hernandez's life as a guerilla during the
Japanese occupation. In this narrative, the author clamored for change in the living condition
of the Filipinos who suffered much under the government.

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FOR HIGHER SCHOOL NG UNIVERSITY OF MAKATI (HSU) – AY 2021-2022
 2. Barter in Panay (1961)
A novel was written by Amado V. Hernandez, a social activist who wrote about the struggle
of the Filipino to uplift his life. The setting reflected Hernandez's life as a guerilla during the
Japanese occupation. In this narrative, the author clamored for change in the living condition
of the Filipinos who suffered much under the government.
3. Mars Ravelo's Buhay Pilipino (1916 - 1988)
Mar's Ravelo is 'The King of Komiks' and produced over a hundred comic works at Ace
Publications. His creations such as "Buhay Pilipino" in Liwayway novels like Varna, Jack and
Jill, Captain Barbell, Maruja, Lastikman, Goomboo Roomboo, Bondying, Roberta were
among those so loved by Filipino readers.

Contemporary Visual Arts

Sculpture
1. Our Lady, Queen of Peace, 1986 by Virginia Ty-Navarro
She was known for her iconic sculpture in Ortigas, EDSA. She was commissioned and
completed the Statue of Our Lady Queen of Peace in sixteen months after the 1986 People
Power Revolution. Some critics questioned her rendition of Our Lady, Queen of Peace with
distinctly Asian features who expected the Lady to be the usual Western and 'mestiza'
image. Navarro's sculpture was allegedly disproportionate with a short body, flat-faced and
oversized hands.
2. Dama De Noche, 2008 by Jose Tence Ruiz
This sculptor explored new techniques and sculptural forms. His work is a reflection of
bizarre and artistic uniqueness. He focused on Jeepney culture, such as the Dama de Noche,
which signifies varied personalities. His indigenous materials reveal his sociopolitical
awakening and desire to democratize art in contemporary consciousness.
CONTENT

Painting
1. "Thinking Man," 1979 by Ang Kiukok
Ang Kiukok, in his angst-ridden figures, focuses on the 'human condition. His subjects are
mainly about the poverty afflicts the Filipinos and his society. Oppression is also a favorite
subject in his artworks. Universal symbols such as man on fire, dogfights, crucifixion, and the
like we're used in representing the social realities prevailing during those times.
2. Harvest Time with the Banawe Rice Terraces by Jose Blanco
Jose Blanco from Angono, Rizal maintained the realist genre, a tradition of several artists
and his family. His artworks were the specific sample of lively figures in lively hue reflected
in his large paintings based on real people from their town in Angono, Rizal. Other significant
artists from Angono are Salvador Juban, Nemesio Miranda Jr., and Vicente Reyes.
3. Sarimanok, 2012 by Dr. Abdulmari Imao
Imao created variations on the sarimanok, specifically in rendering painting and sculpture;
ethnic designs and motifs have been expressed in contemporary art. In addition, Imao draws
inspiration from the Tausug and Maranao artistry of southern Philippines, specifically from
the art of the okir wood carving design, which he reinterpreted in a contemporary manner.

Contemporary Performing Arts

Contemporary Theater
1. Paraisong Parisukat, 1974 by Orlando Nadres
A story about how a young girl decides to sacrifice love and idealism for a stockroom
assistant's life. This is a play in one-act staged by the Philippine Educational Theater
Association (PETA) at the Dulaang Dambana in Fort Santiago, Intramuros, Manila. This play
in Filipino is a story of the masses, including those with high hopes and those without, the
good and the evil, the rich and the poor. This is a story of a human being who is of total
individuality.

COMPILED BY: GENALYN F. MARQUEZ

FOR HIGHER SCHOOL NG UNIVERSITY OF MAKATI (HSU) – AY 2021-2022
 Philippine Contemporary Dance
This form of art from the 60s became very dynamic as several schools began to establish
folk dance troupes such as the Far Eastern Univesity (FEU), Philippine Women's University
(PWU), and the Philippine Normal University's (PNU) Barangay Folk Dance Troupe. In
addition, Leonor Orosa Goquingco' s Filipinesca' s Dance Company, Teresita Pil's Leyte
Kalipayan Dance Company, University of the Philippines (UP) Filipiniana Dance Group,
Darangan Cultural Troupe at Mindanao State University (MSU), and Ramon Obusan
Folkloric Group all have earned accolades and recognition abroad as inspired by Francisca
CONTENT

Reyes Aquino.
Contemporary Music
Original Pilipino Music or OPM refers to Philippine pop or popular songs, specifically
ballads. The same became prominent after the defunct Manila Sound in the 1970s. OPM
artists are Nora Aunor, Eddie Peregrina, Victor Wood, Pilita Corrales and Asin. Later Filipino
Music Artists include Dulce, Claire Dela Fuente, Pops Fernandez, Didith Reyes, Rico Puno,
Ryan Cayabyab, Basil Valdez, Celeste Legaspi, Hajji Alejandro, Rey Valera, Freddie Aguilar,
Imelda Papin, Eva Eugenio, Nonoy Zuniga, Regine Velasquez, Sharon Cuneta, APO Hiking
Society, Ogie Alcasid, Joey Albert, Martin Nievera, Lea Salonga, Vina Morales, Raymond
Lauchengco, Francis Magalona and Gary Valenciano are among the most popular. In the
1990s, original Filipino bands came, such as The Eraserheads, 18K, South Border, After
Image, Rivermaya, etc.

ACTIVITY 1 – ART ANALYSIS AND COMPARISON

ASSESSMENT

1. Pre-Conquest Art Period

2. Spanish Colonial Art Period
3. American Colonial Art Period
4. Postwar Art Period
5. Contemporary Art Period
Instruction:
1. Rearrange the pictures in accordance with the Philippine Art History Timeline.
2. Search the Internet for the details regarding the given art pieces of each historical art
period.
3. Create an infographic displaying and siting each historical art period's key features and
distinct characteristics.

Watch and Learn:

ASSIGNMENT

1. Watch the video of Jonathan Ogden, a musical artist explaining “How to Make an Abstract
Collage.” Go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bE2H5iqIPrk.
2. Create an abstract collage expressing the identity of Philippine arts as a Filipino living in
contemporary society.

COMPILED BY: GENALYN F. MARQUEZ

FOR HIGHER SCHOOL NG UNIVERSITY OF MAKATI (HSU) – AY 2021-2022
 1. Datuin, F. M., Paulino, R., Ramirez, E. L., & Marcelino, L. (2016). Contemporary Philippine
Arts from the Regions. REX E-Store. Rex Book Store. Retrieved January 29, 2022, from
https://estore.rex.com.ph/.
2. Department of Education. (2018, September 28). K to 12 Senior High School Core Curriculum –
Contemporary Philippine Arts from the Regions Curriculum Guide. Deped LR Portal. Retrieved
January 15, 2022, from https://lrmds.deped.gov.ph/detail/14507
3. Department of Education. (2020, December 31). Contemporary Philippine Arts from the
Regions. DepEd Commons. Retrieved January 15, 2022, from
https://commons.deped.gov.ph/documents? filter%5B category%5D=1535778c-8f7b-41b1-
8c94-73bad00a207b
4. Emag, A. R. (2022). Tagbanua. Parangal Dance Company. Retrieved February 5, 2022, from
http://www.parangal.org/tagbanua
5. Ganzon, C. L. C. (2017). Journey: Contemporary Arts of the Philippines. The Phoenix Publishing
House Inc.
6. Godinez-Ortega, C. (2015, June 2). The literary forms in Philippine literature. National
Commission for Culture and the Arts. Retrieved February 5, 2022, from https://ncca.gov.ph/
REFERENCES

about-ncca-3/subcommissions/subcommission-on-the-arts-sca/literary-arts/the-literary-
forms-in-philippine-literature/
7. Klipartz. (2020). Klipartz - all stunning sticker PNG images. Klipartz. Retrieved January 15, 2022,
from https://www.klipartz.com/en
8. Lush, E. (2020, August 2). T'nalak weaving, Philippines. The Textile Atlas. Retrieved February 5,
2022, from https://www.thetextileatlas.com/craft-stories/tnalak-weaving-philippines
9. Magalona, E., Zoleta, M. A., & Arlos, A. (2017). Contemporary Philippine Arts from the
Regions. Minshapers Co., Inc.
10. Philippine Art history timeline. Preceden. (2021). Retrieved February 2022, from
https://www.preceden.com/timelines/617101-philippine-art-history-timeline
11. Ramirez, V. E. (2019). Contemporary Philippine Arts from the Regions. Vibal Group, Inc.
12. Timeline of the development of Philippine art. Prezi. (2021). Retrieved February 2022, from
https://prezi.com/zccmgq8w8_p7/timeline-of-the-development-of-philippine-art/
13. Vibal. (2020). Contemporary Philippine Arts from the Regions. Vibal Group, Inc.
14. Wikipedia contributors. (2022, January 20). Art. Wikipedia. Retrieved January 29, 2022, from
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Art
15. Wikipedia, W. (2022, January 8). Bulul. Wikipedia. Retrieved February 5, 2022, from
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bulul
16. Wikipedia contributors. (2022, January 21). Doctrina Christiana. Wikipedia. Retrieved February
5, 2022, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doctrina_Christiana

COMPILED BY: GENALYN F. MARQUEZ

FOR HIGHER SCHOOL NG UNIVERSITY OF MAKATI (HSU) – AY 2021-2022