National Artists for Visual Arts

Fernando C. Amorsolo

First National Artist; known for romantic rural scenes and backlighting; Grandfather of Philippine painting, he emphasized Filipino traditions and landscapes in his works.

Carlos “Botong” V. Francisco

Revived mural painting with Filipino historical themes

Guillermo Tolentino

Sculptor of nationalistic monuments like the Oblation

Victorio Edades

Father of Modern Philippine Painting

Napoleon Abueva

Father of Modern Philippine Sculpture

Vicente Manansala

Developed transparent cubism with Filipino urban themes

Cesar Legaspi

Modernist painter focusing on social issues and distortion of form, known for his vivid colors and abstract compositions. His works often reflect the struggles of the Filipino people.

Hernando Ocampo

Abstract painter using bold colors and biomorphic shapes

Arturo Luz

Minimalist painter with geometric styles

J. Elizalde Navarro

Mixed media and abstract artist

Ang Kiukok

Expressionist merging cubism with intense emotions

Jose Joya

Abstract expressionist with dynamic brushwork and vibrant colors, known for his large-scale paintings that explore the relationship between color and form. He was a key figure in the development of modern art in the Philippines.

Abdulmari Asia Imao

Promoted Muslim-Filipino motifs in sculpture and mixed media art, becoming the first Muslim National Artist of the Philippines.

Benedicto “Bencab” Cabrera

Focused on identity and social realism in Philippine society, is renowned for his evocative paintings that highlight cultural themes and marginalized voices.

Federico Aguilar Alcuaz

Known for lyrical abstraction and elegant forms

Francisco Coching

Father of Filipino Komiks with nationalistic storytelling

Larry Alcala

Cartoonist known for humorous Filipino everyday life