Art pieces from the Diwata series

The Art of Maria Magdamit

One of the most recognized local artist born and raised in the province is the
sculptor, Maria Magdamit. Her passion in making sculptures from clay made her
known not just in the province but around the country as well. Some of her works
had been on display in exhibits along-side National Artist for Visual Arts, Benedicto
Cabrera. She is a University of Santo Thomas Fine Arts alumna who later on left the
advertising field to pursue her passion for the arts. Her works are recognizable due
to its attention to intricate details and incorporating different types of materials to
create wonderful textures. One of her recent artworks, also notable for being a
crowd-favorite is the Diwata series inspired by the folklore and the surrounding
nature of her hometown and the celebration of femininity. In her interviews, she
repeatedly said that her artworks in this collection is her expression of thanking God
to the beauty He created where she said she always get her inspiration from.
The notable features of the Diwata art pieces are its light color from the clay
used where she also experimented mixing ashes from Mt. Mayon as well as the
meticulously made botanical details both land and sea. Contrasting the light
limestone color of the artworks are some hint of hand-painted colors. Some parts of
the artworks, mostly in the intricate details, are glazed to achieve a porcelain finish
while the human parts remain smooth or lightly textured in an almost matte finish.
 The art of Maria Magdamit explores and radiates the beauty and richness of
Albay and its culture. The artwork expresses how she puts so much attention in
reflecting what she has observed as seen in every detail. Although it will be more
beneficial for her to stay in the metro, she chose to stay close to her roots and
explore more of what it offers. She sets a great example to starting artists who
struggle in finding inspiration for their works. Where else can it be found but in
places closest to the artist, may it be a place or a person.

Image source:
https://mariamagdamit.weebly.com/gallery.html
References:
https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/112759/hot-sculptures-by-a-girl-named-maria/
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