PHILIPPINES CONTEMPORARY ART

Visual art

An expression of artistic ideas through images, structures, and tactile work, often combining multiple mediums.

Victorio Edades

National Artist from Luzon who painted The Sketch.

Raul Agas

Visayan painter known for works such as Magellan's Cross and A Scene from Argao.

Rameer Tawasil

Mindanaoan painter who created the artwork Salaam (Peace).

Guillermo Tolentino

Renowned sculptor from Luzon who created The Bonifacio Monument.

Napoleon Abueva

National Artist who sculpted Sandugo (Blood Compact) in the Visayas.

Kublai Millan

Prolific Mindanaoan sculptor known for works such as Six Ladies in Durian.

Leandro Locsin

Architect who designed landmark structures including the Cultural Center of the Philippines and Saint Andrew the Apostle Church.

Francisco Mañosa

Architect who designed the Pearl Farm Beach Resort in Mindanao.

Ishmael Bernal

Director of the acclaimed contemporary drama film Himala from Luzon.

Marilou Diaz-Abaya

Director of the critically acclaimed film Muro-Ami from the Visayas.

Brillante Mendoza

Prominent filmmaker who directed the contemporary drama Mindanao.

Carlos P. Romulo

Author from Luzon who wrote I Saw the Fall of the Philippines.

Iluminado Lucente

Visayan literary writer known for works such as An Higugma and It's Just the Wind.

Pastores

A musical nativity performance from Luzon where caroling performers portray the nativity and solicit gifts from homeowners.

Komedya (Moro-moro)

A traditional theatrical genre common in the Visayas that dramatizes conflicts between Christians and Muslims.

Banga

A traditional dance from Luzon featuring performers balancing clay water pots on their heads.

Kuratsa

A traditional courtship and celebration dance popular across the Visayas.

Singkil

A traditional Mindanao dance involving stepping gracefully in and out of clapping bamboo poles.

Ang Kiukok

Prominent painter from Luzon recognized for expressive works such as The Fishermen.