🎨

Contemporary Filipino Artists Overview

Jun 17, 2025

Overview

This lecture introduces prominent contemporary Filipino artists, their styles, contributions, and the current landscape of local contemporary art in the Philippines.

Introduction to Filipino Contemporary Art

  • Module 4 focuses on Filipino artists shaping the local contemporary art scene.
  • The goal is to familiarize students with modern art trends and key figures in the Philippines.

Notable Filipino Artists

  • Nona Garcia: Born 1978, Manila; known for painting; awarded Philip Morris Asian Art Award (2000) and CCP 13 Artists Award.
  • Andres Barrioquinto: Born 1975, Manila; surreal painting style with vivid colors; known for works featuring butterflies and skulls.
  • Leeroy New: Native of General Santos; prominent in sculpture and visual arts; uses lanterns, wires, and 3D figures.
  • Jonathan Ching: Born 1980, Montalban, Rizal; recipient of Nokia Art Awards; notable for complex, colorful compositions.
  • David Medalla: Born 1942; admitted to Columbia University at 14; major influence in documentary art and sculpture.
  • Dex Fernandez: Known for cartoonish, multi-legged subjects; blends modern sensibility with urban landscape art, murals, and mixed media.
  • Mark Salvatus: Born 1953; graduate of University of the East; set designer and entrepreneur; famous for installations using salvaged and recycled materials.
  • Rodel Tapaya: Recognized for abstract paintings with textures and colors; explores human experiences through varied techniques.
  • Kawayan de Guia: Uses different media; explores themes, materials, and concept, especially around the human form and Filipino identity.
  • Marina Cruz: UP graduate; known for realistic art and encouraging viewers to question identity and artistic authorship.

Artistic Styles and Themes

  • Many contemporary Filipino artists experiment with mixed media, incorporating sculpture, painting, installations, photography, and urban art.
  • Themes include identity, human experience, urban life, and reimagining traditional symbolism in modern contexts.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Contemporary Art — Art produced in the late 20th and 21st centuries reflecting current ideas and culture.
  • Surrealism — Artistic style emphasizing dream-like, fantastical imagery.
  • Mixed Media — Artworks that combine multiple artistic materials or techniques.
  • Installation Art — Large-scale, mixed-media constructions designed for a specific space.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Review artworks of the mentioned artists for inspiration.
  • Prepare a reflection on how Filipino identity is represented in contemporary art.
  • Complete reading on contemporary Philippine art trends as assigned.