THEME OF

CONTEMPORARY ART
 What is theme?
A THEME is an overall idea that carries through a
work or a series of works. The expression and
elaboration of the theme may be the goal of the
artist in producing the work.

Motif- Repeated elements can have both symbolic and

structural value.
 Cultural Connection
In the visual arts, Cultural Connection have led to create
juxtapositions, hybrid styles, innovative forms, and their
interpretation of traditional signs and symbols.
 Cultural Connection
In the visual arts, Cultural Connection have led to create
juxtapositions, hybrid styles, innovative forms, and their
interpretation of traditional signs and symbols.

The Bulul is a guardian spirit which is

originally created through sacred ritual and
deemed a sacred symbol for the Ifugao.
 Dreams and Visions
Art is about ways of seeing. But it is not always about
representing the world as it exists in real life, and sometimes it
can allow us to see with more than our eyes.
 Dreams and Visions
Art is about ways of seeing. But it is not always about
representing the world as it exists in real life, and sometimes it
can allow us to see with more than our eyes.

The woman of the T’boli tribe is known to

create their famous T’nalak textiles based on
design relayed to them by the gods in their
dreams. The practice called dream weaving
sets apart the T’nalak from other textile in the
region.
 The Arts and Sciences

In a surrealist manner, the dream like landscape of emptiness

where the concept of time and space melted into a
dimension that employs extensive symbolism.
 The Arts and Sciences

In a surrealist manner, the dream like landscape of emptiness

where the concept of time and space melted into a
dimension that employs extensive symbolism.

Barter of Panay- This is an abstract

painting that speaks of the tale of the
arrival of the ten Bornean Datu
(chieftains) and their families in the
island of Panay, as they escaped the
wars of their homeland.
 History and Memory

How does memory function? How do we understand

history? Whether critical irrelevant or introspective the
artists delve into personal memory and the past,
transforming them in their work.
History and Memory
 Ceremony and Society

People across the Philippine archipelago engage in a

wide range of ceremonial rights and spectacles. Some
of these are religious, other political, social, cultural.
Ceremony and Society
 Religious Cosmology and Belief

In all cultures, people strive to understand their reason for

being and their place in the universe. Art can be an
instrument for not only recording spiritual beliefs, but also for
creating myths, defining the realms of mortal and immortal,
communing with ancestors, channeling forces of good, and
repelling those of evil.
Religious Cosmology and Belief
 Power/Authority

Art was often as a way to make people look more important

and powerful. Perhaps the most obvious example would be
court portraits, displaying the Kings and Queens in their most
regal and expensive wares.
Power/Authority
 Death

Death is one of the most pervasive themes in art history. While

many artworks celebrate afterlives in heaven or hell, death is
most often referenced as a grim reminder of numbered days,
and a powerful motivator to live well while you can.
Death