Contemporary Art

Contemporary arts encompass a diverse range of practices recognized by prestigious awards like the National Artist and GAMABA Awards. With strong support systems, contemporary artists explore innovative techniques and concepts while addressing social, political, and cultural themes. They employ technology, multimedia, and interdisciplinary approaches, inviting viewers to engage critically with their work and pushing artistic boundaries. It is a dynamic and ever-evolving art form that celebrates individual expression and reflects the changing world.

Contemporary Art

Definition: Artistic expressions that embody the present era, created by living artists who are attuned to the world around them. It encompasses artwork that reflects the dynamic nature of our society and responds to global events, including those influencing the Philippines. It offers a worldview and captures the essence of changing times, showcasing the artistic sensibilities and perspectives of today's artists.

Appropriation

Existing artworks are appropriated to produce another artwork. Usage of prints, images, and icons to produce another art form.

Combines past from the present. Revives interests to existing forms of art.

Performance

evolved to “emphasize spontaneous elements of chance”. (Walker Art Center)

Interpreting various human activities such as ordinary activities such as chores, routines and rituals, to socially relevant themes such as poverty, commercialism and war.

Space

Arts transforming space. For example, flash mobs, art installations in malls and parks.

Site Specific Art Forms

an art form that is performed and positioned in a specific space such as public places.

Hybridity

Usage of unconventional materials, mixing of unlikely materials to produce an artwork.

Technology

Usage of technology in the creation and dissemination of art works.

Minimalism

Relevant throughout the contemporary art movement. It seeks to take away what’s unnecessary and leaving only what’s essential.

Found Objects

Taking something that people view as useless and then using it in a unique way in order to make artwork is one of the most important movements that currently exist in contemporary artwork. The idea is that things we often view was junk are actually more valuable we think that they are. Everything you can find can be used to tell a story, or to create new diverse perspectives that we’re looking for when we attend art exhibitions.

Large Scale Art

Creating something huge to express diverse perspectives in artwork is incredibly popular, even today. It is also the art that includes the environment. It is often seen alongside building or as huge structures out in the open.

Repoussoir

is an object along the right or left foreground that directs the viewer’s eye into the composition by bracketing (framing) the edge. It became popular with Mannerist and Baroque artists and is found frequently in Dutch 17th Century landscape paintings.

Silverpoint

is a traditional drawing technique first used by medieval scribes on manuscripts.

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National Artist Award

is the highest national recognition given to Filipinos who have made significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts and letters.

National Commission for Culture and the Arts

NCCA

Cultural Center of the Philippines

CCP

Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan

GAMABA

GAMABA Award

the highest state honor given to Filipino in recognition of their outstanding work as a traditional folk artists.

acknowledges folk and indigenous artists who, despite modern times, remain true to their traditions

National Living Treasures Award

GAMABA’s other name

Artist-run space

are managed and operated by artists themselves or artist collectives. These spaces are typically initiated by artists as independent platforms to showcase their own work and the work of their peers. It often prioritizes experimental, innovative, and contemporary art practices and provides opportunities for emerging artists to exhibit their work and engage with audiences.

Government-Run Spaces

These are art spaces that are owned and operated by governmental bodies, such as ministries of culture or local arts councils. They are established with the aim of promoting and supporting the arts within a specific region or jurisdiction. It often provides funding, resources, and exhibition opportunities for artists and cultural events.

Local/Community-Run Spaces

**These art spaces are run by local community organizations, non-profit groups, or community initiatives. They focus on engaging and involving the local community in artistic activities and cultural events. It often collaborates with artists and community members to organize exhibitions, workshops, and performances that reflect the interests and concerns of the community.**

Private-Run Spaces

**are owned and operated by private individuals, art collectors, or commercial galleries. These spaces may vary in size and scope, ranging from small independent galleries to large-scale art institutions. It often curate exhibitions, represent artists, and sell artworks. They play a significant role in the commercial aspect of the art world by facilitating the buying and selling of artworks.**

CCP

Located in Manila, it is a prominent government-run institution that promotes and supports various art forms, including visual arts, performing arts, film, and literature. It offers exhibition spaces, theaters, galleries, and hosts festivals and events.

National Museum of the Philippines

With several branches across the country, it is a government-run institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing Philippine art and culture. It features exhibition halls, galleries, and historical artefacts, providing a comprehensive understanding of the country's artistic heritage.

Green Papaya Art Projects

is an artist-run space located in Quezon City, Metro Manila. It is known for its experimental and interdisciplinary approach to contemporary art. The space hosts exhibitions, performances, workshops, and artist residencies, providing a platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their work and engage with the artistic community. It emphasizes collaboration, community engagement, and the exploration of new artistic forms and ideas.

98B COLLABoratory

is an artist-run space that focuses on interdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement. It hosts exhibitions, artist talks, performances, and workshops, emphasizing the intersection of art, culture, and social issues.

Ateneo Art Gallery

is a locally run gallery located within Ateneo de Manila University. It is dedicated to showcasing contemporary and modern Philippine art through exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events.

Philippine Contemporary Art Network

is a locally run initiative and network focused on contemporary art practices in the Philippines. It brings together local institutions, organizations, and individuals to foster collaboration, research, and knowledge exchange in the field of Philippine contemporary art.

Ayala Museum

is a private-run institution dedicated to showcasing Philippine art, history, and culture. It features permanent and temporary exhibitions, art collections, and educational programs.

Yuchengco Museum

is owned and operated by the Yuchengco Group of Companies, which is a private organization. The museum showcases various exhibits related to Philippine art, history, and culture, featuring collections of artworks, artifacts, and historical objects. It also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs.