Artists' Biography

Fernando Amorsolo was a master of light and a pivotal figure in the history of Philippine art. Known as the "Grand Old Man of Philippine Art," he was the first to be honored as a National Artist of the Philippines.

Amorsolo's work is celebrated for its romantic and idealized portrayals of Filipino rural life. His paintings often feature vibrant landscapes, tranquil farm scenes, and an iconic depiction of the "dalagang Filipina" (Filipina maiden), which became an archetype of Filipino beauty. He was a master of backlighting, a technique that gives his subjects a distinct, ethereal glow.

Throughout his career, Amorsolo produced an estimated 10,000 works, including genre paintings, portraits, and historical scenes. His art beautifully captured the spirit and identity of the Philippines, making him a timeless and beloved artist. 

Fernando Amorsolo was named the first National Artist of the Philippines in 1972. The award was given to him posthumously, just four days after he passed away. 

Carlos "Botong" V. Francisco more commonly known as "Botong" was a muralist from Angono, Rizal. He was a distinguished for mural painting for many decades and best known for his historical pieces. Of all the National Artists for Visual Arts in the Philippines, Carlos “Botong” Francisco is recognized as the most prominent muralist.  

He created enormous canvases that often drew from Philippine traditions, folklore, myths, stories, and even rituals, line and painting the histories and the legendary realm of the Filipinos. His great works include Blood Compact, First Mass at Limasawa, The Martyrdom of Rizal, Bayanihan, Magpupukot, Fiesta, Bayanihan sa Bukid, Sandugo, Portrait of Purita, The Invasion of Limahong, Serenade, and Muslim Betrothal. 

Carlos "Botong" Francisco was posthumously awarded the title of National Artist for Painting in 1973. 

Ang Kiukok was a Filipino painter of Chinese descent, known for his figurative expressionism and violent, cubist-like depictions of subjects expressing terror and angst. 

He is considered one of the most dynamic figures in Philippine contemporary arts. Kiukok was born in Davao City, Philippines, to Chinese immigrant parents Vicente Ang and Chin Lim. 

His father initially wanted to name him Hua Shing, meaning "Chinese-born," but instead named him Kiukok, meaning "save the country". As a young man, Kiukok created comical sketches and studied Chinese ink and brush painting, drawing influence from Chinese master Qi Baishi. 

Ang Kiukok was named a National Artist for Visual Arts in 2001. The official proclamation was signed on April 20, 2001, and the ceremonial conferment was held on June 11, 2001. 

Hernando Ruiz Ocampo was a groundbreaking figure in Philippine art, known for his abstract paintings that blended Filipino themes with modern styles. 

Unlike traditional artists, Ocampo didn't depict realistic scenes. Instead, he used shapes and colors to express feelings and ideas about his country. He was self-taught, learning from books and fellow artists. 

Ocampo was also a writer, playwright, and editor, using his words and art to explore Filipino identity. Ocampo created a unique style that mixed science fiction with Philippine landscapes. His paintings often showed the struggles and beauty of life after World War II. 

In 1991, he was honored as a National Artist of the Philippines for Visual Arts, a recognition of his lasting impact on Filipino culture. 

Father of modern Filipino sculpture, the National Artist of the Philippines, and the youngest artist to receive the honor, leading the way for the nation's sculptures, and serving as a living legend of the Filipino art world. Napoleon was proclaimed National Artist for sculpture in 1976. 

Mastering a wide range of media from local hardwood to stainless steel. He was the youngest National Artist awardee and created numerous iconic works, such as Nine Muses at the university of the Philippines Diliman  Abueva played a crucial role in evolving and shaping the modern sculpture scene in the Philippines. 

Guillermo Tolentino  (1890-1976) is one of the big monument builders in the Philippine history. Works for Tolentino were completely realist, stressing balance, proportion and symbolism. His works show imagination and purposely makes them be beautiful as well as meaningful. His arts commonly featured Filipino heroism, nationalism, and culture. He believed that the purpose of art is to remind people of their identities, histories, and values. 

Tolentino attended the University of the Philippines School of Fine Arts then to the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Rome, Italy. His training in Italy made him acquainted with the classical techniques of teaching, thus influencing his works towards the direction of being described detailed, symbolic, monumental.  The way Guillermo will be remembered is one of the best as well as his most famous work which was the Monument to Bonifacio of Caloocan (1933) that pays tribute to the history of Andres Bonifacio and the Katipunan who fought for the independence of the Philippines from Spain.

In 1973, he was named the first National Artist for Sculpture, a recognition of his exceptional works of art and his contribution to Philippine culture. This honor cemented his place as a true pillar of the country's artistic heritage.