Title: Imprint of Masyang’s House (Raffia Version)

Year Created: 2019

About the work:

The artist employed a rubbing technique, using termite soil on rafia to make the old house of his grandmother become permanent. The piece was shorlisted for Ateneo Art Awards 2019.

Why I chose it: (used Chatgpt for final grammar check)

While I hold a personal connection to the artist as a friend within the art community, what resonates most with me is the theme through which he developed the work. The choice of material is especially compelling, as it is intimately tied to the physical site of the house itself. In this way, the piece reimagines a process of decay, preserving it instead as a lasting presence.

Title: You Hang on Savagely

Year Created: 1964

Medium: Serigraph

About the work:

The artist made a serigraph of a quote by an Italian judge, dramatist, and playwright named Ugo Betti.

Why I choose it:

I found myself deeply resonating with the passage by Ugo Betti as reflecyed in the work. As a pivotal figure within the Pop Art movement, Kent approached her practice with a distinct sensibility. Whereas Andy Warhol’s work often functioned as a critique of consumerism, Kent instead sought to disseminate inspiration, transforming everyday icons and carefully selected quotations into vehicles of hope and social reflection through mass reproduction.

Title: Brick Mosaic Art rendition of Bayanihan by Fernando Amorsolo

Year Created: Lego Rendition (2022), Bayanihan (1959)

About the work:

The artist made a lego rendition of the painting by Fernando Amorsolo about the one of the culture and tradition the Filipinos have, which is Bayanihan. It is about people working together to lift a "Bahay Kubo".

Why I chose it:

This Lego rendition of a painting by Fernando Amorsolo holds shares a bond of culture with me. Since I myself is a Filipino and I can relate to the painting "Bayanihan". Since it is a well known tradition and culture done here in the Philippines. Fernando Amorsolo painted "Bayanihan" so that us Filipinos won't forget the culutures and tradition we Filipinos have.

Reference:

Llemit, K. A. (2022, August 11). Fernando Amorsolo classics come alive as Lego artworks. Philstar.com. https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/arts-and-culture/2022/08/11/2201956/fernando-amorsolo-classics-come-alive-lego-artworks

Submitted by: Mercado, Owen Michel B.

Title: The Portrait Of Dr. Jose Rizal

Year Created: 1962

About the Work:

Artist used an oil on canvas to show a Portrait of The Philippines national hero

Dr. Jose Rizal.

Why I choose it:

It the image of our national hero, his quote of "Kabatan ang pag-asa ng bayan" stuck with me when the current happenings with our government, it is true what Jose Rizal said that the youth has the power to change the future of the motherland.

Title: Harvest Scene

Year Created: 1942

About the work:

The artist made this painting to show the rural side of the Philippine wherein people gather and work to plant and harvest which also shows the hardships of the farmers. This painting was inspired on the place where the artist spent his formative years, at Daet, Camarines Norte.

Why I chose it:

The art portray the life of farmers in the rural side of the Philippine. I chose this painting as I respect every farmers that is struggling to provide nutritious harvests. Through their hardships, the quality meat and vegetables are being delivered to market and being consumed by the people until this day. Farmers are really special especially to the economy, but are still being disregarded by the government.

Reference:

Co, R. (2022, December 29). 11 of the Most Famous Filipino Artists: Their Trademark Styles and Pieces. Tatler Asia. https://www.tatlerasia.com/lifestyle/arts/exploring-the-trademarks-of-some-of-the-philippines-most-significant-artists

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It features a variety of yellow tones, sweeping brushstrokes, and an impasto medium made with sand.

Why I chose it:

I chose it because it is a masterful execution of texture and composition, an embodiment of Joya’s talent as a mixed-media artist and pioneer of modern art in the Philippines.

Reference:

Besguerra. (2020, December 7). ‘Granadean Arabesque’ by Jose Joya (1958). Lifestyle.INQ. https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/375747/granadean-arabesque-by-jose-joya-1958/amp/

PhilLife. (2023, October 4). The most iconic paintings of the Philippines. Phillife. https://www.phillife.co/paintings-philippines/amp/

Submitted by:

Portoza, Ethan Giancarlo Zuriel A.

Title: Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers

Year Created: 2022

About the work:

The photographer, photographed this picture where rapper Kendrick Lamar was seen posing with his family while wearing a diamond crown of thorns, him wearing the crown of thorns represents the burden of fame, the pain and sacrifice being a cultural icon and the voice of social justice.

Why I choose it:

This album with its songs has great message and its very personal with me however the cover its on story this was a man who has this names to him as "The Savior of Hip-Hop" however what happens when he goes back home being a regular human again as the album talks about self-refection and generational trauma and how therapy can help someone the album cover shows Kendrick Lamar as a new man who wants to remove the title "the savior of hip-hop" and choses his peace to be with his family.

Title: Woman Amidst Bananas

Year Created: 1979

About the Work:

The artist made this painting as she is proud of the women who works on harvesting crops, selling fish, or sheaving grain. The artist was inspired about how women show their moves and gestures, expressing their emotions, their diligence and shortcomings; their joy of living.

Why I chose it: (Used AI for grammar checking)

I chose this painting as I realized that women are not just about being feminine and gentle. There are women who also act as strong and independent amidst the challenges they are facing. In this modern world, women like single mothers are the ones who show that even though they are women, they can do what a man is able to do. The way they provide love, money, and nurturing to kids single-handedly makes me proud of them and appreciate them even more.

Reference:

Co, R. (2022, December 29). 11 of the Most Famous Filipino Artists: Their Trademark Styles and Pieces. Tatler Asia. https://www.tatlerasia.com/lifestyle/arts/exploring-the-trademarks-of-some-of-the-philippines-most-significant-artists

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It focuses on the transition from rural to urban settings. In it, Vicente portrays a mother and her child who recently relocated from the countryside to the city.

Why I chose it:

It highlights the uncertainty and anxiety of the time. The Philippines had recently exited the war, and experienced liberation from Japanese occupation. Filipinos were experiencing rampant insecurity in their lives as they moved toward full independence. Manansala’s work aimed at enhancing and fostering the national culture, social environment, native identity, and native sensibility.

Reference:

PhilLife. (2023, October 4). The most iconic paintings of the Philippines. Phillife. https://www.phillife.co/paintings-philippines/amp/

Submitted by:

Portoza, Ethan Giancarlo Zuriel A.

Title: Big Ben

Year Created: 1843-1859

About the work:

Big Ben, Great Britain iconic clock tower built as the grand rebuild the fire of Place of Westminster and originally called the Elizabeth Tower.

Why I choose it:

Great Britain has gotten my interest since I was fascinated by its history and when I think of Great Britain I always think of Big Ben first. It also has a special in my heart since my cousins live in London so this iconic landmark has been around my family eversince.

Title: A Wheatfield with Cypresses
Year Created: 1889

Brief Description: Foreign Artwork 1 is the work of Van Gogh while he was admitted in a psychiatric hospital. His painting showcases a wheat field, tall evergreen cypress trees, and bushes and mountains that seems to be in a rhythmic motion. 

Why I chose the artwork: I chose this Foreign Painting because I find it interesting as it appears to be a contrast of Van Gogh's famous “Starry Night”. We can still find Cypress Trees, the skies are still set to be in motion, and the brushstrokes still suggest swirls. The paintings are like twins, but the only difference is that this one is set in the daytime, and we come to find wheat fields and mountains in opposition to “Starry Night’s” skyline. The painting just seemed to be a more peaceful version of the known one. More on the countryside and not in the cities, setting a reminder that we can live life slower and lighter. 

References: National Gallery. (n.d.). A wheatfield, with cypresses [Painting]. By Vincent van Gogh. National Gallery, London. https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/paintings/vincent-van-gogh-a-wheatfield-with-cypresses

Submitted by: Franchesca G. Elegores

Title: People Power Monument

Year Created: 1993

About the Work:

The artist of this sculpture made it to show the history of how the Filipino united and fight for their own right especially the democracy.

Why I chose it:

I chose this painting as it depicts the people who are ready to fight for their own right. That is the day where all Filipino gathered and became as one to show their courage and faith to prevail democracy for the country. I am somehow moved on how this history were told. The monument is something that the Filipino should be proud of. Its the courage of our fellow Filipino that we have a democratic country.

Reference:

Costa, G. da. (2018, February 25). A Nation That Forgets. Blogspot.com; Blogger. https://oddsandendsgonzalinhodacosta.blogspot.com/2018/02/a-nation-that-forgets.html

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Title: Saturn Devouring His Son
Year Created: 1820 - 1823

Brief Description: Foreign Artwork 2 is an artwork by a Spanish painter, Goya. It showcases a gory scene of Saturn eating up his child, also reflecting mythology, human nature, and the days the artist spent in disorientation while making the painting.

Why I chose the artwork: I chose this Foreign Painting because I have been intrigued by it since the first time I saw it, which was back in 9th grade during our MAPEH class. The art has a sense of primal fear. I find it both fascinating, disturbing, and complex as it also ties in with the Greek mythology about Cronus. The god of Titans, who feared the possibility of being overthrown by his children, who ended up swallowing them whole but then later backfired because his children killed him from his inside. In comparison, the painting shows Saturn tearing the body of his child up. Even so, there are differences, the painting and myth are rooted in one theme: fear of losing power or authority leading to paranoia or madness, which also reflects the tendencies of human nature to overthink and even self-destruct.

Reference: du Plessis, A. (2022, October 18). “Saturn Devouring One of His Sons” by Francisco Goya – A Study. Art in Context. https://artincontext.org/saturn-devouring-one-of-his-sons-by-francisco-goya/

Submitted by: Franchesca G. Elegores

Title: Viva la Vida, Watermelons
Year Created: 1954

Brief Description: Foreign Artwork 3 is the last artwork of the Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo. The vibrant painting showcases a variety of watermelons in different colors, shapes, sizes, and forms. Engraved on a piece of watermelon in the center is "Vida la Viva" which translates to "Long live life".

Why I chose the artwork: I chose this Foreign Painting because it is a personal favorite. Not only was it featured in a K-Drama I loved, but the artwork also expresses life in a new perspective through the analogy of fruits. Watermelons having hard shells, once opened, reveals a soft flesh on the inside. Also, a projection of Frida Kahlo’s hard-lived life, this painting reminds us of the cyclical nature of life and death, how life tends to be hard, but overtime reminds us that it has more to offer. It serves as a gentle reminder to cherish youth and celebrate existence even in the face of suffering. It shows a fleeting life yet a meaningful one with staying hopeful instead of being in despair. 

Reference: Viva la Vida, Watermelons - by

Frida Kahlo. (n.d.). Frida Kahlo. https://www.fridakahlo.org/viva-la-vida-watermelons.jsp

Submitted by: Franchesca G. Elegores

The painting highlights the relationship Filipinos have with the land, and the joy they receive from the abundance of produce nature affords to them.

Why I chose this:

It depicts people gathering fruits and bounty from the land, celebrating the symbiotic relationship between humanity and nature, a theme central to the Filipino people's connection to their environment and the abundance of the earth.

Reference:

Museum, R. S. (2015, December 15). Botong Francisco: A nation imagined. Narrating Our Experiences. https://ricesciencemuseum.wordpress.com/2015/09/03/botong-francisco-a-nation-imagined/

PhilLife. (2023, October 4). The most iconic paintings of the Philippines. Phillife. https://www.phillife.co/paintings-philippines/amp/

Submitted by:

Portoza, Ethan Giancarlo Zuriel A.

Why I chose it: The painting speaks to me through the muse’s grief. It is an emotion that visits you on the most mundane occasions, such as in the painting, like making flower garlands. This characteristic of grief brings a sinking feeling, similar to the woman in the painting, which spirals down with you. It is a cycle I have nurtured to accept instead of pushing away, like how Ophelia opens her arms as she drowns in the lake and submits to her own grief and acceptance.

References:

Easby, R. J. (n.d.). Smarthistory – Sir John Everett Millais, Ophelia. https://smarthistory.org/millais-ophelia/

Submitted by: Acapuyan, Shanessa Antoinette M.

Why I chose it: The quiet composition and ambience of the painting spoke volumes. Despite supposedly being in a bustling setting, it elicits a sense of existentialism and introspection as the characters sit in isolation and silence. It influences a pause in a moment, not to escape, given how easy it is to do so in a city, but to contemplate.

References:

Nighthawks. (n.d.). Art Institute Chicago. https://www.artic.edu/artworks/111628/nighthawks

Submitted by: Acapuyan, Shanessa Antoinette M.

Why I chose it: I thought of this installation as the reality of being a woman. To be a woman is to perform under pressure. Even in the simplest things, such as mending, as presented in the artwork, there is a constant and underlying pressure to live up to how we are expected to act, hence, the scissors. As a woman, I resonated with the performance as a metaphor for how I have lived my years catering to the standards and expectations of the people around me, but remaining balanced and soft through it all out of spite.

References:

BEILI LIU 劉北立. (n.d.). https://beililiu.com/the-mending-project/

Submitted by: Acapuyan, Shanessa Antoinette M.

Title: The Parisian Life

Year Created: 1892

About the Work:

This impressionist masterwork of Juan Luna was created during his stay in Paris, France. The painting is known as Interior d'un Café, which literally translates to "Inside a Café." In contrast to his prior works, "Parisian Life" avoids the intense and dramatic topics he covered during his life as a revolutionary activist.

Why I chose it:

Seeing this at first glance, or purely for its visual impact, gives a very calm impression of a woman in a cafe, which is very much my type of mood in a painting. Since Juan Luna is the artist, and because I find the details, colors, and textures mesmerizing, I was drawn to it even more. But besides that, I also have a deep interest in the hidden symbolism and meaning of this painting, such as being trapped or burdened while trying to appear composed. I chose this because, for me, it represents balance in an artwork while it shows beauty and elegance on the outside, it still carries a deeper meaning that people can connect to.

Reference: titaniamaryllis18. (2019, March 20). The Parisian Life. The Parisian Life.

⁦https://theparisianlife.home.blog/2019/03/20/the-journey-begins/⁩

Title: I Guess This is Where We Go

Year Created: 2023

About the work:

The composition is a personal anecdote told through a dream-like world. Its elements represent life's different stages in actuality and of like inside the mind--unknowingly interconnected and never to be detached. It uses surreal juxtaposition, symbolic imagery, and contrasting cool and warm tones to create a sense of mystery, introspection, and psychological depth.

Why I chose it:

I feel like I resonate with it, not completely but there’s a part of me that really follows through its meaning. Looking at it, there are a lot of happenings that represent one’s mind, and I connect with that. The thought of looking into memories and tying them together feels close to me, and it gives me peace knowing that nothing lasts forever and we all end up in the same place in this lifetime.

Reference: Filipino Art. (2025, January 15). Filipino visual artists to watch in 2025. ⁦https://www.filipinoart.ph/newsroom/2025/01/16/filipino-visual-artists-to-watch-in-2025/⁩

Title: Carcass-Cornucopia

Year Created: 1987

About the work:

It is a plaster sculpture of a reclining female figure whose body becomes a cornucopia, or horn of plenty. It symbolizes both fertility and abundance, while the “carcass” aspect suggests death and sacrifice. The work reflects themes of life, death, and rebirth, using the female body as a sacred vessel.

Why I chose it:

Even though this sculpture may seem dark or intense, I find it very interesting. From the way it is made to the different meanings people may see in it, this kind of work invites reflection. What captured me the most is that this kind of art cannot be easily replicated, which makes it unique and special to me. I also chose this art because it shows amusement with a little bit of discomfort, life-death, and destruction, which makes it really unforgettable.

Reference: Carcass-Cornucopia by Agnes Arellano- Reviewer - TITLE Carcass-Cornucopia MEDIUM cold-cast marble, - Studocu(n.d.).Studocu. ⁦https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/polytechnic-university-of-the-philippines/bachelor-of-arts-in-journalism/carcass-cornucopia-by-agnes-arellano-reviewer/23074716⁩

Title: The Great Wave off Kanagawa

Year Created: 1831

About the work:

The Great Wave off Kanagawa (c. 1830) by Katsushika Hokusai is a woodblock print from his series Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji. It shows a towering wave about to engulf fishing boats, with Mount Fuji in the distance. Using bold blues, dynamic lines, and new perspective.

Why I chose this:

It gives off a very powerful and strong vibe, yet it is calming to look at. The balance of colors and the details make it appear peaceful. It has a natural vibe that brings beauty and serenity to anyone who views it. It also holds cultural significance, representing Japan, but to me this is also an artwork that leaves space for people to interpret and imagine it in their own way.

Reference: Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center. (2009). Hokusai Under the Wave off Kanagawa | U.S. Geological Survey. ⁦Www.usgs.gov⁩. ⁦https://www.usgs.gov/media/images/hokusai-under-wave-kanagawa⁩

Title: The scream

Year Created: 1893

About the work:

The Scream is one of the most familiar images in modern art and a canonical piece in the art nouveau style. It stemmed from a panic attack that Munch suffered in 1892, which he recounted artistically in a sketch from that year that he called Despair.

Why I chose this:

When compared to other paintings, it depicts anxiety and fear that the majority of people can relate with. It seems to speak directly to human emotions without the use of words, and it has a powerful emotional impact. It's also interesting to me that, rather than displaying beauty in the conventional sense, it portrays the reality of emotion and struggle, which gives it a unique power.

Reference: Beams, S. (2019, August 2). The Scream: A Deeper Analysis of Edvard Munch’s Anxiety-Wrought Piece. Medium. https://medium.com/everything-art/the-scream-a-deeper-analysis-of-edvard-munchs-anxiety-wrought-piece-c36d9bbbb4cd

Title: Almond Blossoms

Year Created: 1890

About the work:

The painting of almond blossoms was Vincent’s first attempt at depicting the motif of fruit trees in bloom. In Arles, two years earlier, Vincent had chosen this very motif for his first studies of the spring season. The Almond Blossom painting has subject matter as branches of almond blossoms on the sky blue background. The blossoming flowers are the symbolic association of the emergence of new life.

Why I chose this:

Aside from its simple and minimalist look that really caught my attention, I relate to the meaning behind it. As the meaning of the painting centers on new life, hope, and renewal. It gives an idea of a fresh start that each and every one of us may need and that we should continue to live our lives to the fullest, without regrets because there would always be new begging and a space for growth.

References: Vincent van Gogh - Almond Blossom. (n.d.). Van Gogh Museum. https://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/en/collection/s0176v1962⁩

Why I chose it: I remember visiting the National Museum of the Philippines, coming across this painting, and making a short-lived connection with a stranger, a woman, in front of this artwork, and talking about it and art in general. I have associated this artwork with that warm memory up until now. Besides that, I also appreciate the work for its pleasing color and contrast.

References:

Peñaflorida, C. (2022, June 13). The Other Juan Luna Painting. Medium. https://medium.com/@carpenya/the-other-juan-luna-painting-64d84c2294de

Submitted by: Acapuyan, Shanessa Antoinette M.

Title: Spoliarium

Year Created: 1884

About the work:

The painting portrays what happened at the Roman Colosseum or on historical terms, “Spoliarium” which was the basement there and Roman Gladiators were stripped of their armor after their defeat in the Amphitheatre. Luna then used this painting as a symbol of us Filipinos after what we had experienced under the Spanish rule in which we were exploited and oppressed. 

Why I chose it:

I chose Spoliarium because it captures what happened to our country back then and what us Filipinos had experienced under the Spanish Colonization, where us Filipinos were abused, exploited and had no freedom, the painting symbolizes what Filipinos had experienced especially when we tried to fight back and fought for our freedom, it wasn’t an easy battle and that's why many people died fighting for the Philippines’ freedom. I admire the painting as it is also historical and very important for us, especially our history and culture. We should never forget what happened in the past so that those people who sacrificed their lives get their justice and to never lose hope and courage. The painting is also very inspirational as many people have been using it as a reference in their artworks like songs and movies.

Reference:

About - SPOLIARIUM. Art Collection Digital Platform. (2018). SPOLIARIUM. Art Collection Digital Platform. https://www.spoliarium.com/about/

Eugenio, L. (2023). Resources for Loss: “Spoliarium” by Juan Luna (1884), contributed by Laurinne Eugenio (2023). Resources for Loss. https://scalar.fas.harvard.edu/resources-for-loss/spoliarium-by-juan-luna-1884-contributed-by-laurinne-eugenio-2023

Submitted by:

Diaz, Jefferson C.

Why I chose it: When I went to the Pinto Art Museum, this was the first artwork that caught my attention and held it for a long time. I interpreted it as a representation of the feeling of being so full of emotions and thoughts, and yet struggling to find the right words to express them. I remember staring at it and thinking of so many meanings to the anatomy of the art, like how its wings represented the freedom the man yearns to have, only if it had the right words to say what his heart, the core, longs to show.

References:

Cruz, G. D. (2022, August 11). Figures of Speech: The sculptures of Jerson Samson. Kanto - Creative Corners. https://kanto.ph/objects/art/figures-of-speech-jerson-samson/#:~:text=Such%20is%20the%20case%20of,Hand%2Dmolded%20epoxy.%E2%80%9D

Submitted by: Acapuyan, Shanessa Antoinette M.

Why I chose it: The discomfort of seeing this artwork in the Ateneo Art Gallery is more tangible than just an image. Not only is it creative, but also political in a way that serves as a reminder of the struggles of the Filipinos during that time period. It is a way of saying not to forget the history that shaped the country's present state lest it repeat itself.

References:

Paronable, P. (2022, October 7). Kinupot: A resonance of disappearance. Your Guide to the Big City. https://villagepipol.com/kinupot-a-resonance-of-disappearance/

Submitted by: Acapuyan, Shanessa Antoinette M.

Title Harana

Year Created: 1957

About the work:

Harana is a Philippines culture where a man or the suitor would court a woman through the means of singing a song and playing a guitar.

Why i chose it:

I chose Harana because i really like the concept of it and it is also one of the Philippines' tradition and culture in the past where a man would court the woman she likes and pursue her by singing her a song and playing a guitar, i always admire the concept of it as is also very romantic and it connects people by singing. Many artists create their songs and base their songs about courting someone which is one of the best musical genres, love songs. Music and instruments like the guitar is also meaningful to me because it's one of my passions and that is also the reason why i chose this artwork. My grandfather introduced me to guitars at a young age which was what got me to play that instrument because that was their culture before where they would always play and sing.

Reference:

botongfrancisco. (2025, September 2). Harana. Artera.ae. https://www.artera.ae/artworks/997a9590-cbad-4a8a-bb89-e7c2b14ccc75

National Commission for Culture and the Arts. (2019, September 9). Order of National Artists: Carlos “Botong” Francisco. National Commission for Culture and the Arts. https://ncca.gov.ph/about-culture-and-arts/culture-profile/national-artists-of-the-philippines/carlos-botong-francisco/

Submitted by:

Diaz, Jefferson C.

Title: Planting Rice

Year Created: 1921

About the work:

The painting captures the life of farmers in the rural life of the Philippines where it captures the simple yet hard life of theirs as they are working together to survive and for the survival of the Philippines as this is our culture and one of the foods that us Filipinos need in order to survive.

Why i chose it:

I chose this because I acknowledge the hard work of our farmers who are continuously farming everyday despite the weather changes for us Filipinos to have something to eat. It reminds me to appreciate our farmers more and to value our tradition, the beauty of our life and that this is where we came from. It is sad that nowadays our farmers are having a hard time because of social issues like climate change and land problems unlike before when life was just simple as illustrated in the painting.

Reference:

Canete, R. (2020). CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art | CCP Encylopedia of Philippine Art. CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art. https://epa.culturalcenter.gov.ph/3/82/2272/

Submitted by:

Diaz, Jefferson C.

Title: Planting Rice

Year Created: 1922

About the work:

The artist painted a scenery of farmers in the early 15th century in the Philippines. Which is still how farmers farm rice today in the Philippines.

Why I chose it:

It is one of the famous paintings done by Fernando Amorsolo. It is about rice planting done by Filipinos, and it is one of the tradition and cultures we Filipinos have. Our traditional way of planting rice really symbolizes what we Filipinos are. We are full of culture and we always stand by it loud and proud.

Reference:

Pinoyartshub, V. a. P. B. (2017, December 31). Planting Rice by Fernando Amorsolo. https://httppinoyartshub.wordpress.com/2017/12/31/planting-rice-by-fernando-amorsolo/

Submitted By: Mercado, Owen Michel B.

Title: The Starry Night

Year Created: 1889

About the work:

Van Gogh's Starry Night captures the person's mood, expression and symbol, inspired by the view from his window at his asylum in Southern France, giving the painting a dreamy feeling and atmosphere, he never gave the meaning behind the painting and he was mentally ill around when he created this. It was up to us to put our own interpretation to it.

Why i chose it:

I chose this art because the art is so beautiful and it is one of my favorite artwork. It captures the beauty of our nighttime and the amazing fact that he painted this while he was mentally ill, he was able to do something so beautiful despite struggling which inspires me as well to do well in life and to always have hope despite the struggles, just like in the painting of Van Gogh, there is always light in the darkness. The art itself might be beautiful but the story behind it was sad as he was struggling with his life and it was a dark time for him.

Reference:

Van Gogh Gallery. (2017). Van Gogh Starry Night | Van Gogh Gallery. Vangoghgallery.com; Van Gogh Gallery. https://www.vangoghgallery.com/painting/starry-night.html

Submitted by:

Diaz, Jefferson C.

Title: UP Oblation

Year Created: 1935

Medium: Sculpture

About the work:

The artist made a sculpture of a man acting like he is free without any type of clothing on. It is known as UP Oblation and is located in the University of the Philippines.

Why I chose it:

It is the most famous symbolic sculpture in the University of the Philippines. The UP Oblation symbolizes freedom which is the reason I chose it. We have our own freedom to do what we want to do. As long as it is moral and right.

Reference:

Gaspar, J. (2015, March 12). UP Oblation. Medium. https://medium.com/@jordangasparr/up-oblation-f54390639e10

Submitted By: Mercado, Owen Michel B.

Title: The Thinker

Year Created: 1880

About the work:

Is a sculpture that is thinking deep like a philosopher that looks like he's struggling or being tortured. It represents the power of thinking that us humans have and that we are always thinking about something. 

Why i chose it:

I chose this sculpture because I love the meaning behind it and I enjoy philosophy as it was one of my favorite subjects back in senior high school. The sculpture represents the power of thinking and that thinking drives us crazy and will always give us a deep thought but that is how we live, we always think and ask, we have the creativeness and thinking skills although struggle is the price we pay. It's like reflecting on everything that this world has to offer to us.

References:

Zelazko, A. (2019). The Thinker | History, Description, & Facts. In Encyclopædia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/The-Thinker-sculpture-by-Rodin

Musee Rodin. (n.d.). The Thinker | Musée Rodin. Www.musee-Rodin.fr. https://www.musee-rodin.fr/en/musee/collections/oeuvres/thinker

Submitted by:

Diaz, Jefferson C.

Title: The Old Guitarist

Year Created: Late 1903 and Early 1904

About the work:

Picasso's artwork represents poverty, despair and loneliness but as the man is experiencing all of these, he has one companion, which is his guitar. This painting describes the human experience.

Why i chose it:

I absolutely admire the way the man in the painting has not left but despair and yet still found a way to play his guitar and find it comforting and i also find this artwork very comforting because i can relate myself to it, whenever i am sad, i always listen to music and play my guitar as i find it very helpful and a very useful escape when life gets hard. Whenever we are lonely and in our darkest time of our lives like shown in the painting, art and music will always be there for us. 

References:

The Old Guitarist. (2018). The Art Institute of Chicago. https://www.artic.edu/artworks/28067/the-old-guitarist

The Old Guitarist by Pablo Picasso. (2009). Pablopicasso.org. https://www.pablopicasso.org/old-guitarist.jsp

Submitted by:

Diaz, Jefferson C.

Title: Statue of Liberty

Year Created: 1884

Medium: Sculpture

About the work:

The statue of liberty is located in New York in the America. It is known as the national monument of the United States of America. It was a gift from France to the US symbolizing friendship.

Why I chose it:

This statue reminds me of freedom. By the stance that it is built, it symbolizes freedom and hope. And also being mentioned that it is a gift from France to the US, really reminds me that the world really has its chance to maintain again its peace. And it also reminds me of unity, the world coming together as one.

Reference:

Juninho, S. (2024, February 21). 9 Most famous statues from around the world. SaraStoneOrnaments. https://saraornaments.com/blogs/news/9-most-famous-stone-statues-around-the-world

Submitted by: Mercado, Owen Michel B.

Title: The Last Supper

Year Created: 1498

About the work:

It is a painting made by Leonardo Da Vinci, which depicts the last supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples.

Why I chose it:

Seeing this painting multiples times, made me always remind myself that Jesus Christ went through all of the sufferings just for us to be saved from all of our sins. He did hold off any grudge in us, and still he forgives us from our sins. He truly loves all of us despite our imperfections, wrong doings, our flaws.

Reference:

Wikipedia contributors. (2025, July 18). The last supper (Leonardo). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Last_Supper_%28Leonardo%29

Submitted by: Mercado, Owen Michel B.

Title: Sistine Chapel Ceiling

Year Created: 1480

About the work:

It is a mural painting by Michaelangelo in the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel located in Vatican City.

Why I chose this artwork:

It's unique design and painting technique mesmerized me. And the fact that it is painted in the ceiling of a Chapel makes it even more mesmerizing and unique. Imagine the time and dedication Michaelangelo has put into creating this masterpiece. Each art or design in the ceiling also tells a story about the religion of the Roman Catholic.

Reference:

Wikipedia contributors. (2025b, August 21). Sistine Chapel ceiling. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sistine_Chapel_ceiling

Submitted by: Mercado, Owen Michel B.

Title: Last Trip

Year created: 1990

About the Work:

The painting depicts the situation of the Filipino commuters' experiences daily, just so they can get home after a long day at work or school. The artist used a 4-point curvilinear perspective to allow viewers to better understand or feel the mood of the painting, exhaustion. Which was also accompanied by an urban background music.

Why I chose it:

The reason I chose this painting is that it holds an emotional concept to which we viewers can relate. Jeepney became the primary mode of transportation before, wherein people encountered different strangers with different experiences. This painting struck me because it illustrates how we can have different experiences yet share the same exhaustion. In short, we are not the only ones working hard for the future of our country. Moreover, we will feel the accomplishment when we go home after a long day at work or school, knowing what we have endured throughout the day. Experiencing this as a student gave me a glimpse of what Filipinos went through in the past to get home before cars and motorcycles became the main modes of transportation today.

Reference:

CEDTyClea. (2024, September 24). Major exhibit marks made Art Tilt’s 40th year. BusinessWorld Online. https://www.bworldonline.com/arts-and-leisure/2024/09/25/623547/major-exhibit-marks-made-art-tilts-40th-year/#:~:text=Meanwhile%2C%20Last%20Trip%20by%20Mark,with%20a%20distinct%20curvilinear%20perspective.

Submitted by:

Santos, Janelle P.

Title: Duyan

Year Created: 1975 

About the work:

The artist painted a mother who is taking care of her baby who is in a cradle or the “duyan.” This illustrates the nostalgia and simplicity of the painting, as it illustrates the experience that most of us have had in when we are a child.

Why I chose it:

The reason I chose this painting is that it gives me the nostalgia of my mother taking care of me when I was a child. It also struck me, as it symbolizes simplicity, that we don’t need to have expensive cribs and clothes just to feel our parents' love for us. Instead, their dedication and sacrifice will already indicate how much they love us.

Reference:

Villanueva, J. S. (2016b, July 13). IA#9 deriving meaning. Medium. https://medium.com/@jiansvillanueva/ia-9-deriving-meaning-d82fab1e3b7

Submitted by:

Santos, Janelle P.

Title: Luksong-tinik

Year created: 1973 

About the work:

The painting shows a group of kids playing the street game “luksong-tinik” wherein they form a spine with their hands and one will leap over. This illustrates the simplicity of fun and memories kids make with their friends in playing a street game. 

Why I chose this: 

The reason why I chose this work is because it illustrates how kids use their creativity and imagination in creating a game wherein they can have fun. It depicts how kids in this generation can still enjoy their leisure time playing outside with their friends and not with their gadgets. With this, it can also deepen the culture of our country by being able to appreciate, enjoy, and value the street games or "laro ng lahi," that has been played for decades.

Reference:

Lin, M. (n.d.). Luksong-Tinik (jumping over thorns). VICENTE SILVA MANANSALA (The Philippines 1910-1981) , Luksong-Tinik (Jumping over Thorns) | Christie’s. https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5452577

submitted by:

Santos, Janelle P.

Title: The Death of Aemilius Paullus at the Battle of Cannae

Year Created: 1783

About the work:

The artist depicts the infamous Battle of Cannae the largest battle of the Second Punic War were the the roman consul Paullus was killed by Hannibal by his double envelopment tactic.

Why I choose this work

Since learning about Hannibal and his military campaign in Rome. It always made have a "what if?". What if? Hannibal was successful in the Second Punic war and what would have happened to history if he was victorious would the world have changed because of this victory, would we look at the Roman Empire different today if he was successful, so this painting always reminds me of that "what if?"

Title: Gomburza National Monument
Year Created: 1972

Brief Description: Local Artwork 2 is a bronze statue of the martyred priests: Mariano Gomez, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora who were executed using a garrote in 1872 for fighting for the FIlipino and their rights against the Spanish Colonial abusers.

Why I chose the artwork: I chose this local artwork because of what it represents. I firmly believe that the revolution started with GomBurZa as Dr. Jose Rizal was inspired by them. Even though they were just accused, their death played a vital role in the instigation of the Filipino Revolution. The monument also shows us the resilience of the country, the fight for freedom, and reminds us to fight until the very end. 

References: Ugc. (2025, August 27). GOMBURZA Monument. Atlas Obscura. https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/gomburza-monument

Submitted by: Franchesca G. Elegores

Title: The "Afternoon Meal of the Workers (Noonday Meal of the Rice Workers)"

Year Created: 1939

About the work:

The artist painted it in sunny and colorful depictions that idealized both nature and native beauty. He want to show the symbolization of the dignity, hard work, and resilience of Filipino farmers in agricultural heritage.

Why I choose it:

Just by looking at the picture, It shows the simple yet rich life of filipinos, rich in agricultural heritage. It reflects the perseverance and hard work of the Filipinos. As we know, most Filipinos are farmers, and farming is their way of living. The reason why I also appreciate this painting is because it reminds me to be grateful to our farmers. I am truly thankful to them for continuing to provide us with food despite their difficult situation.

Reference: Afternoon meal of the rice workers. (2016, October 21). Flowers’ Two Bees. https://flowerstwobees.wordpress.com/2016/10/21/afternoon-meal-of-the-rice-workers/

Title: Bandera Filipina

Year Created: 1897

About the work:

The painting shows the philippine flag. The Philippine flag's white triangle represents liberty, equality, and fraternity, while the blue stripe symbolizes peace, truth, and justice, and the red stripe stands for patriotism and valor

Why I choose it:

The reason why I picked this painting is that it symbolizes a lot. It is because it serves as a powerful symbol of unity in the country. From the lines, colors, and placements of stars and sun. It is the flag that we respect and honor as Filipinos.

Reference: Bandera Filipina. (n.d.). https://www.bigwas.com/2024/07/bandera-filipina.html

Title: Josephine Sleeping

Year Created: 1896

About the work:

It is made during his exile in Dapitan, “Josephine Sleeping”. Dr. Jose Rizal made this sculpture because of an intimate glimpse into the humanity and personal lives of  his last love Josephine Bracken

Why I choose it:

When I first saw this sculpture, I didn’t know that it was made by Jose Rizal. This sculpture was shown by my suitor. He explained that Dr. Jose Rizal made this sculpture because he deeply loved Josephine. And it just touches my heart; it proves that if someone loves you, he can show it in many ways. And since I’m really into watching and reading romance, when he told me that story, it stays on my mind.

Reference: National Museum of the Philippines. (2024, December 30). NMP EXHIBITS RIZAL’S “JOSEPHINE SLEEPING” – National Museum. https://www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/2024/12/30/nmp-exhibits-rizals-josephine-sleeping/

Title: The Persistence of Memory

Year Created: 1931

About the work:

Salvador Dali’s painting means that time is not fixed and absolute—it is fluid, fragile, and influenced by memory and perception.

Why I choose it:
Someone told me that the Persistence of Memory is open to interpretation. It means the artist created the painting from its imagination. I just like that it has a lot of symbolization. I just interpret it as we should not depend on our life on a ticking clock. A clock that shouldn't rush us; instead, enjoy its time.

Reference:

Wikipedia contributors. (2025, August 3). The persistence of memory. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Persistence_of_Memory

Title: Evening Shadows

Year Created: 1889

About the work:

Base on my research it symbolizes the quiet passage of time and, in Ben Quilty's later interpretations, the tragic history of Indigenous Australians on the continent

Why I choose it:
Last June 2025, I went on a vacation to Adelaide, Australia. During my first week we went strolling in the city. We went to this Australian museum. When I am visiting a museum, I'm not really that type of person who would stay on a painting for half an hour and observe the painting. But while walking, the painting caught my attention; it is a peaceful painting, and it has a light feeling.

Reference: Australia, A. (2023, January 25). Evening Shadows by Louis Tannert C.1889. Artlab Australia. https://www.artlabaustralia.au/projects/evening-shadows-by-louis-tannert-c.1889

Title: Mountain Retreat

Year Created: 1984

About the work:

It is a painting of a summer getaway with a cabin, water, and mountains. Ross paints a scene featuring a cozy cabin, clear blue waters, and rugged brown mountain peaks using the wet-on-wet oil painting technique.

Why I choose it:

The reason why I chose it is because of the scenery. Personally, I like when I look through the beauty of nature. I appreciate its calmness and the sounds of water flowing. So by looking at the painting, I just feel the calmness of it.

Reference: Bob Ross. (2016, January 18). Bob Ross - Mountain Retreat (Season 3 Episode 1) [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hoimk4s8JoQ

Title: Magtataho
Year Created: 2008

Brief Description:  Local Artwork 1 shows a vendor of silken tofu or commonly known as taho, preparing an order for a girl in a provincial setting.

Why I chose the artwork: I chose this local artwork because it reminds me of my province where we’d run just to chase a taho vendor who’s made his way a few blocks farther from us. This made me realize that small things can bring happiness in life and even simplicity can get us somewhere. Touching the topic of life’s simplicity, I also chose this painting because it highlights the kind of person we do not notice every day. I suddenly became curious about the vendor’s daily routines. What time he gets up, how he prepares his taho, and what routes he takes. Those kinds of things that proves the word sonder or the realization that every single one of us lives a life that is full and real in so many ways.

References: Magtataho by j0rosa. (2008, April). Deviant Art. https://www.deviantart.com/j0rosa/art/Magtataho-83266124

Title: The Making of the Philippine Flag
Year Created: 1955

Brief Description: Local Artwork 3 is a painting that features the creation of the Philippine National Flag by hand by the three women: Delfina Herbosa de Natividad, Lorenza, Agoncillo's daughter, and the mother of the Philippine Flag, Marcela Agoncillo.

Why I chose the artwork: I chose this local artwork because this is a significant scene in our historical timeline. It is a reminder of our achievement of peace, freedom, and independence. I also love the way that feminism has been long woven into our systems even in the 19s, giving way into more empowerment to this day. This painting is both solidarity and gentleness telling us that we can still fight even without violence.

References: Art - The making of the Philippines Flag by Fernando Amorsolo. (2024, September). Studocu. https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/centro-escolar-university/medical-technology/art-the-making-of-the-philippines-flag-by-fernando-amorsolo/103920800

Submitted by: Franchesca G. Elegores

Title: Spoliarium

Year created: 1884

Brief description: This massive painting was created in 1884 by the Filipino painter, Juan Luna. The artwork reflects both historical and the experience of the Filipinos suffering during the Spanish colonization.

Why I chose it: I chose Spolarium by Juan Luna because it is not only an iconic and famous masterpiece but this artwork is also a symbol of the Filipino struggle against oppression during their time. the paintings dramatic details like the dying gladiators being dragged reflects the suffering of the oppressed Filipino people during the Spanish colonial period. Lastly, This painting is more than just an artwork because it carries historical significance and a testament to their bravery and patriotism enduring fight for freedom.

Reference:

National Museum of the Philippines. (n.d.) Spoliarium Hall. National Museum of the Philippines.

https://www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/exhibitions/fine-arts/gallery-spoliarium-hall/

submitted by: Rhania Leigh S. Reyes

Title: Filipina: A Racial Identity Crisis

Year created: 1990

Brief description: This artwork is a colorful and vibrant characterized by sticker-like textures, bright colors and different forms. Pacita Abad's use of vibrant hues and shapes creates a different kind of impact that forces viewers to reflect on cultural identity and self-representation.

Why I chose it: I chose this art because it allows one to explore belonging through bright colors and abstract forms, issues of identity and race. This work captures the struggles of Filipinas through their ways of cultural expectations and global stereotypes, making it deeply relevant in conversations about representation and empowerment. Lastly, the painter's bold style also challenges traditional art norms, turning the painting into both a personal and political statement.

Reference:

Pacita Abad (n.d.). Filipina: A racial identity crisis, 1990.

https://pacitaabad.com/artworks/224-immigrant-experience-filipina-a-racial-identity-crisis-1990/

submitted by: Rhania Leigh S. Reyes

Title: Consolation 

Year created: 1894

About the Artwork:

The drawing depicts a scene of a man comforting a girl, symbolizing the need for a companion in times of grief and loss. 

Why I chose this: 

This drawing struck me among Edvard's artworks, as it illustrates how one can suffer from loss, grief, or doubt without having someone to comfort them. This drawing made me reflect on how comforting someone who’s going through times of despair can make them feel that they are understood and loved. With that, it made me reflect on how it is okay to seek comfort from our loved ones, but also having the same responsibility when they need a companion. It also resonated with me when I’m facing struggles that can be hard to face alone, and that I needed someone to lean on and talk to. Hence, the overall drawing made an impact on empathy in which most of us need in times of despair. 

Reference: 

Consolation: The genius of munch’s relatability. John Szoke Gallery. (2021). https://www.johnszoke.com/blog/90-consolation-the-genius-of-munch-s-relatability/

Submitted by:

Santos, Janelle P.

Title: Dalagang Bukid

Year created: 1928

Brief description: This painting portrays a young Filipina woman in traditional attire seating peacefully in a rural setting with a vase in her hand. Amorsolo uses warm colors yet can see the different shades per color tat he used, making her appear radiant against the countryside background.

Why I chose it: I chose this painting because it highlights the beauty of being a Filipina together with its visible culture and rural life shown in the painting. His use of warm and light tones brings to life the charm of the subject in the painting making the subject emphasize her features. Lastly, the artwork stands as a reminder of national pride and cultural identity, making it timeless and relatable to every Filipino.

reference:

National Museum of the Philippines. (2021, December 12). 17th to early 20th century National Fine Arts Collection "Dalagang Bukid". National Museum of the Philippines.

https://www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/2021/12/12/17th-to-early-20th-century-national-fine-arts-collection-dalagang-bukid/

Title: Mona Lisa

Year created: 1503-1519

Brief description: This was painted by Leonardo da Vinci and it is a portrait of a woman seated against a dreamy, mountainous background. What makes this painting iconic is that the portrait is captivating the viewer's perspective making them adore the painting.

Why I chose it: (used Chatgpt for grammar check) The reason why I chose this painting is because it is not just widely known, but it still remains to be one of the iconic artwork in art history. The painting continues to influence viewers to have admiration and curiosity, proving its universal appeal and lasting influence on generations of artists and viewers worldwide. Lastly, its realistic detail and mysterious smile showcase da Vinci's genius and innovation during the Renaissance.

Reference:

Musee du Louvre. (n.d.). From the 'Mona Lisa' to 'The Wedding Feast at Cana'.

https://www.louvre.fr/en/explore/the-palace/from-the-mona-lisa-to-the-wedding-feast-at-cana

Title: Starry Night

Year created: 1889

Brief description: The painting consists of different colors but mainly uses blue, white, black and yellow as the main colors. Also, the painting was painted by Vincent van Gogh during his stay in a mental asylum.

Why I chose it: The reason why I chose this painting because not only it uses less colors, but it also shows that by just using a swirling method, we can already make an art that viewers can easily get captivated with. It is also because the colors are complementary with each other which makes it simple yet unique. Lastly, this painting is still one of the remaining unique and memorable painting, solidifying van Gogh's place in art history.

Reference:

Museum of Modern Art. (n.d.). Vincent van Gogh. The Starry Night. Saint Remy, June 1889

https://www.moma.org/collection/works/79802

Title: The Persistence of Memory

Year created: 1931

Brief description: This painting is known for having the melting clocks and people view it as distorted timepieces to defy the laws of physics

Why I chose it: I chose this painting because I was mesmerized by how he painted the melting clocks and the use of shadows. The artwork really looks like it was defying the law of physics just like the viewers would tell making it unique out of all art pieces I've seen. Lastly, choosing this artwork means embracing and masterpiece that challenges our perspective in reality and time.

Reference:

Museum of Modern Art. (n.d.). Salvador Dali. The Persistence of Memory. 1931

https://www.moma.org/collection/works/79018

Title: We Are The Kids that Your Parents Warned You About

Year Created: 2010

About the work: This visual artwork was created using wires, cast resin, and black paint. The story behind this work is that it featured in Zicarelli’s solo exhibition held from 2010.

Why I chose it: I chose this painting because I like how it is simple yet carries a deeper meaning. It serves as a warning to us, as children, to be aware of the people around us and to be careful about whom we place our trust in. (Used Chatgpt for final grammar check)

Reference: Chikiamco, (2010). We Are The Kids that Your Parents Warned You About. Asian Art Archive

https://aaa.org.hk/en/collections/search/library/we-are-the-kids-that-your-parents-warned-you-about

Submitted by: Bonnet, Alliah Rae T.

Title: Planting Rice with Mayon Volcano

Year Created: 1949 (series of work)

About the work: This painting was created using oil paintings applied in canvas. The definition of this work is to showcase the culture and the land in the Philippines.

Why I chose it: The reason I chose this painting is that I like how Amorsolo shows the richness of the Philippines in terms of its tradition, culture, and nature. The people planting rice reflect a deeper story about the importance of resiliency. (used chatgpt for final grammar check)

Reference: The Volcanism Blog, (n.d)

https://volcanism.wordpress.com/2009/05/09/fernando-amorsolo-planting-rice-with-mayon-volcano-1949/

Submitted by: Bonnet, Alliah Rae T.

Title: Crucifixion

Year Created: 1968

About the work: This painting was created using oil paintings on canvas to show his famous cubism style. The story behind this is inspired by Kiukok’s own experience during World War 2 connecting to Christ’s pain and suffering.

Why I chose it: I chose this artwork because I admire how Ang Kiukok managed to connect his background to Christ's story. I also appreciate how unique his drawing style is using different kinds of shapes to portray a clear picture. (used chatgpt for final grammar check)

Reference: Endeya, (n.d). Crucifixion. The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)

https://epa.culturalcenter.gov.ph/3/82/2169/

Submitted by: Bonnet, Alliah Rae T.

Title: Vase with Fifteen Flowers

Year Created: 1888

About the Painting: Fifteen Sunflowers in a Vase is a famous painting by Vincent van Gogh, made in 1888 while he was living in France. It shows a bunch of sunflowers in a plain vase, with each flower looking a little different, some are fresh and bright, others are starting to wither. 

Why I chose this work: I chose this work because for me, it is not just a simple painting of sunflowers, it is a powerful reminder of how different stages of life have their own worth, lesson, and purpose. Some of the flowers on the painting are starting to wither and some are still fresh and alive, but Van Gogh all painted them with the same treatment and equality as it was trying to tell that whatever stage people are in in their lives, no one should be left behind and all of it is precious. Additionally, I consider including this artwork to my assessment as it also shows a deep appreciation in everything. Valuing things not because they’re perfect, but because they were for real

Reference: Fifteen Sunflowers in a Vase (1888) by Vincent van Gogh – Artchive. (n.d.). https://www.artchive.com/artwork/fifteen-sunflowers-in-a-vase-vincent-van-gogh-1888/

Submitted by: Lorelle Jianne F. Hernandez

Year Created: 1994

Sculpture

About the Work: This sculptural piece was created by Napolean V. Abueva and can be found at the University of the Philippines Diliman Faculty Center grounds. Each of the muses symbolizes different art forms, including music, sculpture, architecture, painting, literature, dance, film, theater, and photography. 

Why I chose it:

I was drawn to the number of sculptures included in the piece and the use of women as representatives for the nine kinds of art. They are all posed in a deliberate and performative way because they are meant to showcase Filipinos' creative abilities and passions. Seeing women represent the fields of art is incredibly empowering because, for so long, women have been objectified. They were always subject to being just physically admired and creeped on. This work showcases how women are not just subjects, but they are also artists. The music depicts the beauty of the world of arts and the artists themselves. Additionally, in a way, I think that this work is also meant to inspire and call to future generations that no matter how long it’s been, art will always be a vital part of our lives. Nowadays, I see some who belittle those who are in the creative fields. There’s this stereotype that being in a science- or mathematics-related course equates to being “smarter” or more “superior” to those students in the arts. To me, this artwork serves as a reminder that art will always be relevant in our past, present, and future.

References: 

IN PHOTOS: The late National Artist Napoleon Abueva’s iconic work. (2018, February 16). RAPPLER. https://www.rappler.com/life-and-style/arts-culture/196219-napoleon-abueva-famous-work/

‌

Submitted by: Bautista, Danielle Andrea B.

Title: The Water Lily Pond

Year Created: 1899 (first created)

About the work: The painting was created using traditional oil paintings in canvas to showcase impressionism style. The meaning behind this painting is, it was a series of water lily ponds using his deep connections to nature.

Why I chose it: The reason I chose this painting is that, like Monet, I appreciate how nature is portrayed in his work. This painting is also a symbol of peace, showing how nature itself can be calming. Looking at Claude Monet's artwork, the details make it feel as if you are seeing it in reality. (used chatgpt for final grammar check)

Reference: Claude-Monet, (n.d). 10 Facts You Might Not Know About Claude Monet's 'Water Lilies'.

https://www.claude-monet.com/waterlilies.jsp

Submitted by: Bonnet, Alliah Rae T.

Title: The Last Supper

Year Created: 1495

About the work:

This painting is about Jesus having a meal with the apostles, but its not just about the meal but when you look at it, their reactions are about on some concerning issue. The artist painted this on how it described in the Gospel.

Why I chose it:

Even though I'm not part of catholic religion, because I have different religion I still respect it. I love how the artist painted in regard to what in the bible described. I have watched different "The Bible" stories which made me amaze about the catholic religion. The Last Supper was about the last meal with the apostles and there is someone who will betray Jesus. I was mesmerized on how powerful God is. He knows that he will be betrayed, but chose not to do vengeful act but rather to forgive him.

Reference:

Cole, M. (2025, July 11). 31 Famous paintings from Western art history any art lover should know. My Modern Met. https://mymodernmet.com/must-know-paintings/

Title: The Sistine Chapel ceiling

Year Created: 1508 to 1512

About the work: Michelangelo used materials such as pigments, plaster, and fresco technique. The story behind this is from the creation of the world to some stories from the Bible.

Why I chose it: The reason I chose this painting is because I am amazed at how every corner of the chapel ceiling is a work of Michelangelo. For me, Renaissance art is my favorite, so I admire the symbolic meanings Michelangelo included in the ceiling. (used chatgpt for final grammar check)

Reference: Zappella, (n.d). Michelangelo, Ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. SmartHistory.

https://smarthistory.org/michelangelo-ceiling-of-the-sistine-chapel/

Submitted by: Bonnet, Alliah Rae T.

Title: Liberty Leading the People

Year Created: 1830

About the work:

The artist painting was about the spirit of the people's uprising. This was painted during the French Revolution.

Why I chose it:

We know that in the past there are ongoing war on different countries. But in this painting it captured my attention to a woman who is fighting besides the men. The way she hold the flag to persuade the warriors to fight for their rights. I love the courage and dedication to pursue something for a change. Its not something to be done easily but the way the woman acted she showed that its possible and there could be change.

Reference:

Cole, M. (2025, July 11). 31 Famous paintings from Western art history any art lover should know. My Modern Met. https://mymodernmet.com/must-know-paintings/

Title: Girl with a Pearl Earring

Year Created: 1665

About the work: Vermeer created this artwork using oil paintings. This painting’s story remains a mystery or unknown.

Why I chose it: I chose this painting because I like the simplicity of the artwork. Although it is not considered a portrait but a tronie, her identity remains unknown. I am mesmerized by how elegant the girl looks with just a pair of pearl earrings hanging from her ears. (used chatgpt for final grammar check)

Reference: Zelazko, (2025). Girl with a Pearl Earring. Britannica

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Girl-with-a-Pearl-Earring-by-Vermeer

Submitted by: Bonnet, Alliah Rae T.

Title: The Kiss

Year Created: 1907-1908

About the work:

This intimate portrait captures a tender moment between a pair of lovers. The artist used two-dimensional composition to enhance the luster of the gold leaf. (From a reference)

Why I chose it:

I chose this painting because I can feel the painting's emotion, especially the love. Love is something that you feel when you found the one that will reciprocate the same feeling that you have. I also once felt that. This painting shows how genuine their love is, the way I feel like they are connected to each other, especially how the color blend in when they are close together.

Reference:

Cole, M. (2025, July 11). 31 Famous paintings from Western art history any art lover should know. My Modern Met. https://mymodernmet.com/must-know-paintings/

Title: The Starry Night

Year Created: 1889

About this work:

The Starry Night is an oil-on-canvas painting. It depicts a 'starry night' over a village, and is said to have been recreated from the artist's memory and imagination.

Why I chose it:

The thick, swirling lines that are used to create the artwork are mesmerizing for me. The way the colors are layered on top of one another and mixed in some strokes is also quite alluring. The way the night sky is painted reminds me of a deep ocean, which is what you could also say space is.

Reference:

Paulson, N. (n.d.). Smarthistory  –  Vincent van Gogh, The Starry Night. https://smarthistory.org/van-gogh-the-starry-night/

Title: Liberty Leading the People

Year Created: 1830

About this work:

Liberty Leading the People is an oil painting that, at a surface look, is filled with chaos. Upon closer inspection, it shows a subtle sense of order. It is a historic painting at its core despite being accomplished the same year the events of the painting occurred, as it depicts the July Revolution in 1830 against King Charles X.

Why I chose it:

It is one of the many paintings that comes to my mind when I think of famous artworks. The French people's fight for freedom across their long history is a well documented one, as they are famous for their many revolutions against the upper class and the monarchy, and I think this painting is an excellent showcase of that. It doesn't matter your age or gender, the fight for freedom is universal, and Liberty Leading the People touches on that with a woman holding the flag, a child right next to the woman, and two armed men following her as they continue their revolt.

Reference:

Zygmont, B. (n.d.). SmartHistory – Eugène Delacroix, Liberty Leading the People. https://smarthistory.org/delacroix-liberty-leading-the-people/

Title: The Flower Carrier 

Year created: 1935

About the Artwork:

The painting illustrates a man who is struggling to carry a big basket of flowers, and a girl who is helping the man stand up by lifting the basket. This symbolizes solidarity among different classes.

Why I chose this: 

The reason I chose this painting is not only because of its meaning but also because of the painter’s intent and explanation of why he created this. The painter’s goal in this artwork is to advocate for the equality of the working class by showing empathy and support for them. In the painting, it shows how the carrier is holding vibrant flowers, which symbolize the wealth of the upper class. This painting clearly illustrates how people in the lower class work hard just to provide luxury for the upper class. With that, this painting struck me as it depicts the current issue here in the Philippines, and how a painting can bring awareness and reflection on societal problems. 

Reference: 

Magna Canvas. (n.d.). The unbearable lightness of capitalism: The flower carrier by Diego Rivera. https://magnacanvas.com/blogs/news/the-unbearable-lightness-of-capitalism-the-flower-carrier-by-diego-rivera?srsltid=AfmBOooHxSqjRK1R1L0BjtKCaMelnidoQVkaxwfHZ-MJl9I7wjqJVBdj

Submitted by:

Santos, Janelle P.

Title: The School of Athens

Year Created: 1509-1511

About this work:

The School of Athens, a fresco in the Stanza della Segnatura, a room in Pope Julius II's private apartments in the Vatican, represents all the greatest mathematicians, philosophers, and scientists from classical antiquity gathered together sharing their ideas. The two thinkers in the center are Aristotle on the right with his hand downwards, and Plato on the left with his hand pointing up.

Why I chose it:

Ever since I learned that this fresco was made to honor the great classical minds, I fell in love. Plato and Aristotle arguing about the true nature of reality, whether it is a shadow of a higher and truer reality (Plato), or whether it the only true reality is the one that we see and experience (Aristotle), represented by Plato's holding his hand up and Aristotle holding his hand down. There are also many other interesting and important figures dotted around the fresco, such as Pythagoras on the lower left writing something, and Ptolemy on the lower right with his back to us, holding a sphere of the Earth.

Reference:

Pulimood, & Steven. (2022, July 21). School of Athens | Raphael, Painting, People, History, & Facts. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/School-of-Athens

Khan Academy. (n.d.). https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/ap-art-history/early-europe-and-colonial-americas/renaissance-art-europe-ap/a/raphael-school-of-athens

Title: España y Filipinas

Year Created: 1884

About the Work:

This work was meant to represent the optimistic view of the future that the Spaniards promised Filipinos during their time in the Philippines. It shows how the woman in a red dressー the one representing the Spaniardsーare guiding the Filipinosーthe women in a blue dressー towards a bright light at the end of the staircase, implying that good things will come if we follow that path. However, in Juan Luna’s second version in 1888, we see distinct changes in the women’s poses and the painting's mood and implication. 

Why I chose it: 

I chose this artwork because of the shift in its perspective towards the complexity of the Spanish influence on our country. How it went from having this almost blinding light in the sky, with the Filipina completely leaning and seemingly trusting the Spanish woman completely. It’s interesting to see how our country was manipulated to view colonization as simply a positive thing, and how, as time went by, we eventually desired our independence from them. 

References:

National Historical Commission of the Phillippines. (2024, July 4). Retrieved September 3, 2025, from https://nhcp.gov.ph/articles/espana-y-filipinas-juan-lunas-artistic-journey-through-colonialism-and-national-identity/

Submitted by: Bautista, Danielle Andrea B.

Title: Weeping Women with Handkerchief

Year Created: 1937

About the painting: Weeping Woman with Handkerchief is a painting made by Pablo Picasso in 1937. He used oil paints and a style called Cubism, where shapes and angles are used to show things in a new way. In this artwork, Picasso shows a woman who is very sad. Her face looks broken into pieces, like a puzzle, to show how deep her pain is.

Why I chose this work: I chose this work because for me, Pablo Picasso did not just create art, but he also turned sadness into a beautiful masterpiece. The way he painted this work tells like sadness or pain isn’t something to hide about. I chose this work because a part of me sees emotions not as weakness, but something that is a source of strength and a space for improvement. I appreciate how Picasso turned grief into art and that’s one I consider and the reason why this is included to my assessment

Reference: Weeping Woman with Handkerchief (1937) by Pablo Picasso. (2024). www.artchive.com. https://www.artchive.com/artwork/weeping-woman-with-handkerchief-pablo-picasso-1937/

Submitted by: Lorelle Jianne F. Hernandez

Title: La Pietà

Year created: 1498 - 1499

About the Work: 

The artist was commissioned for the French Cardinal Jean de Bilhères’ funeral monument. It depicts Mary holding the corpse of Christ after crucifixion. The sculpture was made of white Carrara and is the only piece Michelangelo ever signed at the age of 23. La Pietà is now housed in St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican. 

Why I chose it:

I chose La Pietà because it makes me see motherhood as both sacrificing and unconditional. As it centers around The Virgin Mary’s final act of love, not only for all Christians but also for her child. Whilst we grieve for Jesus Christ as “Our Savior,” Mary mourns as a mother for the child from her womb into a world full of chaos. She knew that He would live a life of suffering, yet she trusted her son, and thought that she trusted God. This piece is important to me because even though I’m not the biggest believer, I gained a huge level of respect and appreciation for The Virgin Mary as a huge symbol of the church. 

Reference: 

The Pietà by Michelangelo Buonarrot. (2019). The Core Centennial. https://core100.columbia.edu/article/pieta-michelangelo-buonarrot#:~:text=The%20Piet%C3%A0%20or%20%22The%20Pity,same%20theme%20by%20the%20artist.

Submitted by:

Caracas, Clarisse Andrea F. 

Title: The Execution of Lady Jane Grey

Year created: 1834

About the Work: 

The artist portrays the final remaining moments of Lady Jane Grey before who was the first queen of England with the shortest rule of only 9 days. The painting contrasts with the subject’s white dress symbolizing her innocence or purity against the dark and muted surroundings. It highlighted the vulnerability and injustice of historic executions at the time. 

Why I chose it:

I chose this painting because it captures the tragic story of Lady Jane Grey. She was accused of “stealing the throne” from her cousin, Mary Tudor which resulted in her execution. Lady Jane Grey was only seventeen at the time. A teenager forced into a role she didn’t even want in the first place, and then paid for it with her life. One of the most emotional aspects of the painting was when the executioner was guiding her to her fate, while her ladies-in-waiting were powerless. It symbolized how she was blindly taken advantage of by scheming men during her short heir. The painting makes me reflect on the injustice that women and children had to go through during that time period. They were being used like chess in a game of thrones as if they weren’t human. 

Reference: 

Morrill, & S, J. (1999, March 18). Lady Jane Grey, Biography, Facts, & Execution. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Lady-Jane-Grey

Submitted by:

Caracas, Clarisse Andrea F.

Title: Rhythm 0

Year: 1974

About the Work:

The artist stood still for six consecutive hours and dared the audience to do whatever they wanted to her without any consequence using 72 items that were displayed. The items she chose ranged from innocent pleasures to pain inflicting objects. Maria Abramović instructions were, “I am the object. During this period I take full responsibility.” This performance highlighted the reality of how humans in society react when given complete free will with no limits.

Why I chose it:

I chose this specific piece from Marina Abramović’ performance because of how it exposed a reality that we live in. Through her performance she created a space of vulnerability because it is unfiltered and straight-forward. It represents how both she and the audience are humans. Unfortunately that was the problem, we were humans with human-like nature. At the beginning of the performance, people were hesitant to initiate. However, as time went on, they began to dehumanize her character, take advantage of her, and potentially kill her in the process for a sake of reaction. Whist others at the time, viewed the performance as “demeaning” and not art at all. I would argue that it was only demeaning because we couldn’t face the ugly truth we all live in. Rhythm 0 is not a form of “humiliation ritual”. It was a performance of vulnerability and trust between her and the audience when there were no limits. The humiliation Marina Abramović experienced was not the goal but rather the consequence of people’s actions. 

Reference:

Anthony, E.A. (2023, March) The Violent Viewer: Rhythm 0 and subjecting oneself to dehumanization. The Harvard Crimson.

https://www.thecrimson.com/article/2023/3/30/maria-abramovic-performance-art-rhythm0-article/

Bogart, Anne. “Magnetism.” And Then, You Act: Making Art in an Unpredictable World. New York: Routledge, 2007. 65. Print.

Submitted by:

Clarisse Andrea F. Caracas

Title: Apo Whang-Od: Next of Skin

Year: 2023

About the Work:

The photograph was taken by Artu Nepomuceno for Vogue Philippines Magazine in the beauty section “Skin” as a tribute to App Whang-Od. She is often described as one of the “last” and oldest tattoo artists in the Philippines.

Why I chose it:

I chose this photography from Vogue Philippines because it represents who Apo Whang-Od is and why we should celebrate her in our country. The subject is centered and emphasizes the beauty of the tattoos (batok) around her body. The pattern craved represents the ancient Filipino tattooing tradition in Kalinga. She embraces her identity and culture by wearing the traditional garment which was composed of colorful woven skirts (kain), adorned with embroidery accessories. The picture is so simple, yet captures the essence of Apo Whang-Od. She inspired me to be comfortable in my own skin and be proud of who I am as an  individual, and as a Filipino. 

Reference:

Carpio, A., & Nepomuceno, A. (2023, April 7). Meet the 106-Year-Old woman keeping an ancient Filipino tattooing tradition alive. Vogue. https://www.vogue.com/article/apo-whang-od-and-the-indelible-marks-of-filipino-identity

Submitted by:

Clarisse Andrea F. Caracas

Title: Filipina Comfort Women

Year: 2017

About the Work:

Filipina Comfort Women stood Manila for less than five months between December 2017 and April 2018. It was meant to represent the Filipino “comfort women” or the lolas who were forced into sexual slavery by the Japanese Army in World War II. It was removed by the Philippine Department of Works and Highways (DPWH) in 2018 because of the tension between Japan-Philippines foreign relations.

Why I chose it:

I chose this because it helped me realize that what happened to these women and chilren weren’t so long ago and they deserve to be talked about until this day. When the statue was built, it gave a sense of empowerment for the victims. Something they have control over on the narrative rather than being shamed by what was written in history by the colonizers. Filipina Comfort Women was representation of what they had experienced and survived. I was one of those Filipinos who cried and raged when the statue was taken down because Japan was ashamed for the war crimes they never apologized nor acknowledged. The past cannot be brought back. However, erasing the fact that it happened doesn’t erase the years of pain and trauma that was inflicted upon these women and children against their will during World War II. I hope one day, I could see Filipina Comfort Women back. 

Reference:

Arroyo, K. D. (2022). The comfort woman statue: Analysis of heritagization, dissonance and historical conflict between the Philippines and Japan. Retrieved from https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etdm_intlstud/34

Submitted by:

Clarisse Andrea F. Caracas

Title: The Bedroom

Year created: 1888

About the Artwork:

The painter created a painting with only a bedroom with no one inside, and the use of warm colors. This symbolizes peace and rest amidst the painter’s struggles in life. 

Why I chose this: 

The reason why I chose this painting is because of its simplicity, but also having a deep meaning in connection with the painter’s struggles. With that, this stuck me as it shows how art can give us comfort and peace when facing our personal struggles. 

Reference: 

Ropelato, J. (2023, December 12). “the bedroom” by Vincent van Gogh, 1888. WhiteClouds. https://www.whiteclouds.com/articles/the-bedroom-by-vincent-van-gogh-1888/

Submitted by:

Santos, Janelle P.

Title: Bombing of the Intendencia

Year: 1942

About the Work:

The bombing of the Intendencia depicts the destruction of Manila during the Japanese occupation. The canvas captures the chaos and horror of war as Filipinos flee to safety with their families and belongings. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the heroism of the Filipinos during the darkest period in our history. 

Why I chose it:

I chose this painting because there’s a contrast between hope and devastation during that period. The Filipinos were promised freedom by the Americans of being an independent country. Only to be attacked by yet again another colonizer a few moments later. However, despite all destruction Filipinos continued to survive and rebuild what was once broken. This painting is relevant with the countless corruption and injustice the hardworking Filipinos are facing. I like to think that before things get any better, it has to get worse first. Every single Filipino has to wake up and demand change because it is the only way for our country to move forward. If we don’t everyone will suffer the consequences. 

Reference:

Maranan, A. (2025). Art Stories & Insights,  Leon Gallery Features & Highlights. https://leon-gallery.com/stories/the-burning-of-manila-enters-the-market-at-this-years-the-spectacular-mid-year-auction-of-leon-gallery

Submitted by:

Caracas, Clarisse Andrea F.

Title: Bungkag

Year Created: 2021

About the Work:
The work shows faceless children on swings, and each is seen facing different directions and swinging at various speeds. The artist was a 2021 Grand Awardee for Sculpture in Metrobank Art Awards. The piece aims to depict the lack of opportunities being given, and the corruption of the system giving those opportunities. The artist wanted to enlighten the country on the reality it is currently facing.

Why I chose this work:

I personally think the symbolism for the artwork is quite unique. The way it’s composed and arranged is really interesting to me, because it shows you chaos straightforwardly, but when you dig deeper into it, you can see how the artist was relating their piece to the nation’s current circumstances. I think that it shows how, despite how chaotic the world is, we keep on swinging. We keep on trying to figure out how we're going to improve our situation, but there’s always a struggle because we have an untrustworthy system and governance. Whoever has the power to orchestrate unified actions is using them for their own personal gain, and I think this piece is now more relevant than ever. 

Reference: 

CEDTyClea. (2021, September 21). Metrobank Art Awards: Of difficult realities and messages of hope. BusinessWorld Online. https://www.bworldonline.com/arts-and-leisure/2021/09/22/397973/metrobank-art-awards-of-difficult-realities-and-messages-of-hope/|

Title: The Bedroom

Year created: 1888

About the Artwork:

The painter created a painting with only a bedroom with no one inside, and the use of warm colors. This symbolizes peace and rest amidst the painter’s struggles in life. 

Why I chose this: 

The reason why I chose this painting is because of its simplicity, but also having a deep meaning in connection with the painter’s struggles. With that, this stuck me as it shows how art can give us comfort and peace when facing our personal struggles. 

Reference: 

Ropelato, J. (2023, December 12). “the bedroom” by Vincent van Gogh, 1888. WhiteClouds. https://www.whiteclouds.com/articles/the-bedroom-by-vincent-van-gogh-1888/

Submitted by:

Santos, Janelle P.

Title: Hymen oh, Hymenee

Year Created: 1886-1887

About the work:

The painting shows a roman wedding procession and was recently displayed in 2023.

Why I Choose it:

I always love a good mystery and solving it, This painting of by Juan Luna won a bronze medal in Paris and lost for 100 years. It's not about the painting but the story of how its found. It shows the filipinos resilience in finding a work of art even if some people say its gone, however people who values art will still keep finding it and bring it back to light.

This painting, almost entirely done in gold tones, is one of the most striking artworks of the style.

Why I chose this:

Because the painting symbolizes the union of masculine and feminine energies through contrasting geometric and floral patterns on their robes.

Reference:

Team, A. (2021, May 13). 30 Most famous paintings in History: The best art of all time. Artistro. https://artistro.com/blogs/news/30-most-famous-artworks-in-history-the-greatest-art-of-all-time?srsltid=AfmBOoro6Vdd15xPgSoVOi1RN302unhMcZ_q4KgQqUf7INb2j9FVrXi1

Submitted by:

Portoza, Ethan Giancarlo Zuriel A.

It is part of a series of 36 ukiyo prints of Mount Fuji. Hokusai did not depict the middle plan, so the illusion of depth is overwhelming.

Why I chose this:

The composition of The Great Wave is a synthesis of traditional Japanese prints and use of graphical perspective developed in Europe, and earned him immediate success in Japan and later in Europe, where Hokusai's art inspired works by the Impressionist and it reminds us of our place and the harsh reality of life, that we are insignificant. How nature has almost complete control of our lives and how we sometimes unable to get free from it. It reminds us of our position in this universe.

Reference:

Team, A. (2021b, May 13). 30 Most famous paintings in History: The best art of all time. Artistro. https://artistro.com/blogs/news/30-most-famous-artworks-in-history-the-greatest-art-of-all-time?srsltid=AfmBOoro6Vdd15xPgSoVOi1RN302unhMcZ_q4KgQqUf7INb2j9FVrXi1

Wikipedia contributors. (2025, September 2). The Great Wave off Kanagawa. Wikipedia. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Great_Wave_off_Kanagawa

Submitted by:

Portoza, Ethan Giancarlo Zuriel A.

Title: The Fall of Icarus

Year Created: 1636-38

Medium: Oil on canvas

About the work:

This painting depicts one of the most famous events in Greek mythology—Icarus, the son of Daedalus, who was imprisoned after the killing of the Minotaur by Theseus. To escape, Daedalus crafted wings made of wax and feathers and warned Icarus not to fly too high, as the sun could melt the wings. However, Icarus ignored the warning, and this ultimately led to his death.

Why I chose this painting:

The story and art behind the painting show the consequences we may face for the thrill of it all. Icarus felt an unexplainable rush while flying, which led him to seek higher skies toward the heavens, ultimately causing his death. This reflects reality as well—people can experience that same unexplainable rush toward something in life, risking boundaries and pushing themselves to their limits just to get closer to it, while absentmindedly forgetting the consequences involved.

(used Grammarly for final grammar checking)

References:

Greek Mythology in Art. (n.d.). The fall of Icarus – Jacob Peter Gowy (c. 1610–c. 1660). Greek Mythology in Art. Retrieved September 3, 2025, from https://www.greekmythologyinart.com/the-fall-of-icarus-gowy.html

Chaliakopoulos, A. (2021, September 6). The myth of Daedalus and Icarus: Fly between the extremes. TheCollector. https://www.thecollector.com/daedalus-and-icarus/

Submitted by: Ojales, Julian Miguel S.

Title: Echo and Narcissus

Year Created: 1903

Medium: Oil on canvas

About the work:

The painting depicts the pivotal moment when Narcissus fell in love with his own reflection, which ultimately led to his death—a punishment devised by the gods after he rejected Ameinias.

Why I chose this painting:

I chose this painting not only because of how it shows the beauty and tragedy of the story but also because at first glance it may simply appear to be a scenic work—a man gazing at his reflection in the water. However, once the full context of the myth is understood, it conveys much deeper emotions: the pain of unrequited love, with Echo watching from the sidelines, admiring Narcissus as she witnesses the events unfold, and the danger of self-obsession.

This reflects how people can be blinded by their own looks, achievements and even personal desires and how this can isolate a person and trap within their own narcissism.

(used Grammarly for final grammar checking)

References:

National Museums Liverpool. (n.d.). Echo and Narcissus [Artifact description]. Walker Art Gallery. Retrieved September 3, 2025, from https://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/artifact/echo-and-narcissus

Submitted by: Ojales, Julian Miguel S.

The agonized face in the painting has become one of the most iconic images in art, seen as representing a profound experience of existential dread related to the human condition. Munch's work, including The Scream, had a formative influence on the expressionist movement.

Why I chose this:

He sensed an "infinite scream passing through nature". Scholars have located the spot along a fjord path overlooking Oslo and have suggested various explanations for the unnaturally orange sky, ranging from the effects of a volcanic eruption to a psychological reaction by Munch to his sister's commitment at a nearby lunatic asylum.

Reference:

Team, A. (2021a, May 13). 30 Most famous paintings in History: The best art of all time. Artistro. https://artistro.com/blogs/news/30-most-famous-artworks-in-history-the-greatest-art-of-all-time?srsltid=AfmBOoro6Vdd15xPgSoVOi1RN302unhMcZ_q4KgQqUf7INb2j9FVrXi1

Wikipedia contributors. (2025b, September 2). The scream. Wikipedia. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Scream

Submitted by:

Portoza, Ethan Giancarlo Zuriel A.

Title: The Rape of Proserpina

Year Created: 1621-22

About the work:

The sculpture depicts Proserpine, the goddess of fertility, being abducted by Pluto, the god of the underworld.

Why I chose this sculpture:

I chose this sculpture because of how Bernini was able to convey both the physical struggle and emotional intensity of the event—with Proserpina’s desperate resistance contrasting with Pluto’s overwhelming strength.

Furthermore, this sculpture can be interpreted as a reflection of how women struggle against circumstances that attempt to dominate or define them. It highlights the importance of acknowledging women’s struggles and amplifying their voices, while also confronting the harsh truths in society today about these kinds of power dynamics.

(used Grammarly for final grammar checking)

References:

Borghese Gallery. (n.d.). The Rape of Proserpina [Sculpture description]. Retrieved September 3, 2025, from https://borghese.gallery/collection/sculpture/the-rape-of-proserpina.html

Submitted by: Ojales, Julian Miguel S.

Title: Aphrodite of Knidos

Year Created: 4th century BCE

About the Work: 

This statue was considered to be the first created with the image of a female goddess in the nude. This work was later considered controversial at the time, but eventually inspired many artists in the future. The current sculpture isn't in existence anymore, and the image above is the weathered down version.

Why I chose this work:

I thought of this work because I think it humanizes what we consider to be untouchable. Although it can also be controversial due to the beauty standards it holds. I think its impact on future sculptures is even greater. The fleshlife texture and its realistic figure at the time came as a shock to many people. It had started a trend and sparked inspiration in other artists. Capturing an image of vulnerability and mundanity in the first known work of a woman in the nude, instead of something with a purpose of just being erotic and sexual, is refreshing to know. 

References:

Alessandro, E. a. W. (2021, April 20). Giovanni Strazza – The Veiled Virgin. Exploring Art With Alessandro.

Submitted by: Bautista, Danielle Andrea B.

Title: Portrait of the Lady (Mi Novia)

Year Created: 1885

About the work:

The artist made the painting look so realistic and focused on the texture details. The painting shows a lady in her night dress laying on her bed while holding a rosary showing innocence. This painting of Luna was one said to be cursed because of the people who used to owned it met terrible misfortunes.

Why I chose it:

I choose this artwork because it holds a never ending mystery that always bring up my attention. Some says that this painting of Juan Luna is her wife Paz Pardo De Tavera, while some says this isn't her because of her skin color. But either of that I'm much more mesmerized the fact that after a couple of years after this painting was finished Luna killed her wife Paz. That phenomenon made me question myself that how can someone's love and bliss turns into hatred. How can Luna painted this with love and care then killing her wife in a blink of an eye.

Reference:

Gomez, J. (2017, January 20). Behind the curse of Juan Luna’s “Portrait of a Lady”. EsquireMag.ph. https://www.esquiremag.ph/culture/books-and-art/crimes-and-punishment-a1549-20170120-lfrm3

Submitted by: Doctora, Kirsten Maecy P.

Title : Planting Rice

Year Created : 1952

About the work :

This painting was made in the Nationalism period wherein the paintings became the way to represent the idea of nationhood.

The artist shows the traditional way of how Filipino's plant's their rice. In some insights concluded that this artwork by Amorsolo was being mirrored on how people yearns to escape a complicated reality.

Why I chose it:

I choose this because it simply shows how life was back then, how simple and peaceful it is to live in that kind of environment. The artwork also shows Philippine's rural, light, and culture. In addition, I choose this because this painting is an eye opener to every filipino because it conveys the hard work, dignity and resilience of Filipino farmers that are now being disregard by our government.

Reference:

PhiliLife (2022, December 18.) The Most Iconic Painting of the Philippines. PhilLife.https://www.phillife.co/paintings-philippines/amp/

Submitted by: Doctora,Kirsten Maecy P.

Title: Sagada

Year Created: 1952

About the work:

Eduardo documented the every life of indigenous people from Cordilleria and those photo captures their culture and soon serves as the documentation of the indigenous peoples practices and rituals. Just like this photo, It portrayed a non-colored photo of a native filipino citizen wearing a the native headdress called "Ulo de Kang-o" while smoking.

Why I chose it: (used Chatgpt for final grammar check)

I selected this photo because it conveys a powerful meaning, depicting the everyday lives of native Filipinos in unfiltered way. It shows the simplicity, authenticity, and richness of Cordilleria's region's cultural heritage. I'm deeply impressed by how our country holds such a remarkable features, producing hidden gems like this. In additon, I selected this photo because it conveys a profound meaning, depicting the everyday lives of native Filipinos in an unfiltered and authentic manner. The sense of infinity I experienced while viewing Eduardo’s documented photographs is difficult to articulate. They reveal that, beyond the struggles and poverty faced by society today, there exist communities, environments, and traditions that remain rich, enduring, and free from conflict.

Reference:

Culture Trip. (n.d.). The 10 most famous Filipino artists and their masterworks. Culture Trip.

https://theculturetrip.com/asia/philippines/articles/the-10-most-famous-filipino-artists-and-their-masterworks

Submitted by: Doctora, Kirsten Maecy P.

Title: Miner's Wives

Year Created: 1948

About the work:

The artist created this painting response to the mining disaster in Illinois wherein 111 miners died. Ben Shahn focused on the aftermath of the disaster, particularly in the devastation brought to the miners family.

Why I chose it:

This painting has been memorable for me ever since the first time I've encountered it because it showed a example of social realism that aimed to depict harsh realities. The direct way of the artist using bright significant color that represents the devastating incident the miner's had gone through mesmerize me. Also because of this painting it was pointed out that being a miners wife is difficult knowing that no one is really sure if they're even going back home to their family.

Reference

Shahn, B. (c. 1948). Miners’ Wives. Philadelphia Museum of Art. https://philamuseum.org/collection/object/52275

Submitted by: Doctora, Kirsten Maecy P.

Title: The Rape of Proserpina

Year Created: between 1621-1622

About the Work: 

This massive sculpture depicts the capture of Proserpina and her desperate attempts to be released from the god Pluto. This artwork tells the myth of Proserpina’s abduction to the Underworld. It is said that while the maiden was out picking flowers, she was seen by Pluto ー the god of the Underworldー and he fell in love at the sight of her. Pluto grabbed for Properina and took her to the Underworld before Cereus could come and save her. 

Why I chose this work: 

I chose this work because of the incredible emotion and action brought to life by the artist. It is no small work by any means, and the story represents an experience that, sadly, several women could terrifyingly relate to—the cruelty of the experience of being taken advantage of. The way the artist showed the pain and fear in the maiden's face, as well as the desperation of trying to get away from imminent danger.

References:
Bernini, A. G. L. (2023, July 22). The rape of proserpina by Bernini in the Borghese Gallery, Rome. Galerie Borghèse. https://borghese.gallery/collection/sculpture/the-rape-of-proserpina.html

Title: The Veiled Virgin

Year Created: 19th century

About the Work:

The sculpture depicts the Virgin Mary with a veil draped over her head. Intricate translucent folds are shown through the soft marble. The texture of the fabric and the face can be observed separately.

Why I chose this work:

This work truly stood out to me because of how incredibly detailed the texture and shape of the veil clinging to the woman’s face were. The way it was sculpted looks so ethereal, as it was able to give the illusion of having a real piece of fabric over a woman's head. The realism, but also its creative exaggeration, fascinates me because of the amount of skill and effort it must have taken.

References:

Martinez-Conde, S., & Macknik, S. (2024b, February 20). Unveiling the illusion. Scientific American. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/unveiling-the-illusion/

Submitted by: Bautista, Danielle Andrea B.

Artist: Michaelangelo Buonarroti

Year Created: 1500

About the work:

This sculpture of Michaelangelo symbolizes "pity and compasion". It depicts Virgin Mary holding the dead body of her son, Jesus Christ after crucifixion. The sculpture is made from a solid block of Carrara Marble that he made when he was 23 years old.

Why I chose it:

As a person, I’m not really into sculptures because they give me chills, and my religion also contradicts believing in statues and similar works. However, this particular piece by Michelangelo always takes my breath away in such a positive way, especially knowing that it was created when he was only 23 years old. I chose this not only because it shows the pity of a loving mother, Mary, but also because it carries an ineffable meaning that reflects the strength of a mother’s love.

Reference:

Brehmer, D. (n.d.). The Pietà: A story in five parts. Portrait Society Gallery.https://www.portraitsocietygallery.com/the-pieta-a-story-in-five-parts

Submitted by: Doctora, Kirsten Maecy P.

Title: Caryatid Sisters

Year Created: 421-406 BCE

About the work:

The Caryatid sisters are female sculptured figure that supports a columns or pillars. According to theories the model of the statue are the women from a small town in Lacoñia who was punished due to their alliance with Persians in the second Persian invasion of Greece.

Why I chose it: (used Chatgpt for final grammar check)

I chose this sculpture because, when I look at it, I can feel the power that women hold. Simply by observing the sculpture, one can see how a woman is capable of supporting something that many people would traditionally expect men to do. In addition, I am thrilled to know that even before Christ, women already knew how to stand firm and demonstrate their strengths. This sculpture also serves as a revelation to everyone that women are equally capable of accomplishing what men can do.

Reference:

Greek TravelTellers. (2020, August 5). Caryatids: The Daughters of Athens. Greek TravelTellers Blog. https://greektraveltellers.com/blog/caryatids

Submitted by: Doctora, Kirsten Maecy P.

Title: The Ghost Girl

Year created: 2007

Brief description: 

As if depicting beauty, the face-down and veiled figure of a young woman is an intriguing piece of art called ‘Ghost Girl’ by Kevin Francis Gray. Seated on a pedestal like a traditional Greek sculpture, the marble figure provides a gloomy perspective of a contemporary young woman. It brings together the traditional look of the sculptures and an urban feel; thus, making one wonder about its intention as a work of art. Such is the work of Gray, with much of which there is a touch of surrealism and secrecy to it. When the beaded veil is removed, the face of a skeleton is what is revealed underneath. As unsettling is the sight of the girl's arms with scars, deliberately kept at the back of her body. One cannot help but ask if the beads are symbolic tears or an interpretive shield.

Why I chose it: 

On first impression, it is lovely, even striking. Its shiny surface inviting with a nearly dishonest allure. But beneath the shining facade exists a reality that is weightsy, disturbing, and deeply human. As one who has trod the darkness of depression, who has hidden wounds both on the body and in the heart, this statue greeted me in a language I could hardly help but hear.

It made me think of the silence that I used to carry, the silence of hurt that none could see because I would not allow them to. The way she stands, lovely but empty, is the way so many of us learn to live. Hollow inside, but fooling the world we are okay. That contrast, between a beautiful and perfect exterior to the self-destructing demons we try to hide inside, is a haunting yet accurate reality. As funny at it sounds, oo often, the people who laugh the loudest and shine the brightest are the ones who suffer most quietly.

But the ‘Ghost Girl’ is not only for those who can see themselves in its marble's reflection. It is also dedicated for those who were left behind. People who never realized the weight someone was carrying until it was far too late. It asks us to look past the surface, to peel away the illusion we have for someone, and to recognize that what sparkles may also be what suffers. Really ask, “Are you okay?”. Only when we look beyond appearances, only when we dare part the beaded veil, can we begin to understand the silent battles being fought in the dark. And that is how the statue spoke to me. 

Title: Cognoscenti in a Room hung with Pictures

Year created: 1620

Brief description: 

This Flemish oil-on-wood panel painting shows eleven men, who are thought to be collectors and gentlemen but none of whom are named. The picture showcases the pleasure and erudition of art appreciation and collecting, and of scholarly pursuits such as astronomy. The miniature paintings are also of those painting that were famous in the 16th - 17th century by other artists. Picture hung ranged from religion to self portrait, painted with fine meticulous detail that if one zooms in, it is as if the mini painting were the art themselves. But in the midst of this moment of beauty and knowledge, the presence of a monkey on the windowsill, traditional symbol of human foolishness, creates a humble reminder. It implies that the process of accumulating art and objects, however beautiful, can perhaps be a pointless and vain exercise, revealing the conflict between human ambition and the futility of ownership.

Why I chose it: 

This painting, I chose for its striking artistic qualities. It was as if the painter was bragging as everything down to the miniature painting were painted in great detail. People who have viewed the art in person often zoomed in on the mini painting and is struck with awe by the ‘too perfect’ detail and preciseness. Even though I did not see it in person, the awe-struck qualities of the painting did not exempt me. This shows how dedicated the artist was and the effort he exerted with perfecting this piece. 

Another is that it speaks of the point of John Berger, that sometimes, art becomes over-valued and that collecting it despite the price, as the painter also intended to deliver, is not that far off from foolishness, thus the monkey by the window. 

Title: Samson and Delilah

Year created: about 1609 - 1610

Brief description: 

Peter Paul Rubens's Samson and Delilah is a tale of love that has been betrayed. Delilah, bribed by the Philistines, learns Samson's secret of his superhuman strength and has him shaved, so he is rendered helpless. Soldiers are waiting outside to take him in.

Behind Delilah there is an old woman whose weathered face looks somewhat like Delilah's. This might suggest that her loveliness, the very quality which brought Samson down, will eventually pass too.

Why I chose it: 

The pain of seeing Samson whom lost love, strength, and trust in one betrayal is something I can sympathize to. Since I was a Chile, I have been against what Delilah did. She was blinded by greed that she did not see how genuine Samson’s love was. Perhaps it was ignited by her beauty. But more than that, Samson felt for Delilah’s character, her true character. But then he also failed to see what intent Delilah hid inside. 

The story was both beautiful and tragic. And of course, it still speaks until today. Betrayal is with no limit as love is. And that manipulation is never a matter of gender.

Tittle: 'Fight of 58' mural

Year Created: 2019

About this work:

It was Launched on Nov 19 and was publicly displayed s a protest. The mural was done by different artists together with media workers and other sectors. It is a symbol of solidarity in the fight against impurity and a call for justice for the 58 Victims of the Ampatuan massacre. Additionally, On December 19,2019 while unloading it from the vehicle, the National Police confiscated the mural, condemning the freedom of expression and freedom of assembly. As of today, there were no documents releasing statements if the mural was returned.

Why I chose it:

I chose this artwork, because it’s not merely a decoration, it has a purpose, a blood visual reclamation of pain-filled chapter of our nation’s history, and a cry for accountability. The human raise should not forget this mural because it’s a reminder that justice is not just about court rulings but acknowledging and keeping the memory of victims. It’s a statement that we should not forget and fight for truth, use our freedom, so such violence will not arise.

Reference

Panay News. (2019, December 19). ‘Fight for 58’ mural. https://www.panaynews.net/fight-for-58-mural/#google_vignette

Title: A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte

Year Created: 1884

About the Painting: Between 1884 and 1886, Georges Seurat spent countless hours crafting this serene riverside scene, where Parisians lounge, stroll, and soak in the sunshine on Île de la Grande Jatte. What makes it truly remarkable and unique is Seurat’s technique; instead of broad common brushstrokes, he used thousands of tiny dots of color, an approach called Pointillism.

Why I chose this work: I chose this work because, as an introvert, I’m attracted to the quiet freedom it portrays. People are gathered in the same environmet, yet each one is focused in their own little world, minding their own business, enjoying their own company. There’s no pressure or obligation to interact, no judgment, just peace. It’s a scene where everyone is allowed to simply exist as who they are, and that speaks to me

Reference: Grant, & Reg. (2023, December 15). A Sunday on La Grande Jatte—1884 | Meaning, Description & Facts. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/A-Sunday-on-La-Grande-Jatte-1884

Submitted by: Lorelle Jianne F. Hernandez

Tittle: 'Fight of 58' mural

Year Created: 2019

About this artwork:

It was Launched on Nov 19 and was publicly displayed s a protest. The mural was done by different artists together with media workers and other sectors. It is a symbol of solidarity in the fight against impurity and a call for justice for the 58 Victims of the Ampatuan massacre. Additionally, On December 19,2019 while unloading it from the vehicle, the National Police confiscated the mural, condemning the freedom of expression and freedom of assembly. As of today, there were no documents releasing statements if the mural was returned.

Why I chose it:

I chose this artwork, because it’s not merely a decoration, it has a purpose, a blood visual reclamation of pain-filled chapter of our nation’s history, and a cry for accountability. The human raise should not forget this mural because it’s a reminder that justice is not just about court rulings but acknowledging and keeping the memory of victims. It’s a statement that we should not forget and fight for truth, use our freedom, so such violence will not arise.

Reference:

Panay News. (2019, December 19). ‘Fight for 58’ mural. https://www.panaynews.net/fight-for-58-mural/#google_vignette

Tittle: Ang Mananahi ng Buhay at ang Makinang ng Makina

Year Created: 2011

About the work:

A personal portrait of Raffy Napay’s parents done with crisscrossed, layered stitches on the canvas. It was submitted as a piece for the 2010 Philippine Art Awards, that earned nodes of the jurors. Since then, thread has become Raffy’s medium of choice.

Why I chose it:

I chose this artwork because it speaks that anything can be used to produce art. The use of thread, and crisscrossed stitches turned into expressive imagery, broking the traditional tradition “paint on canvas” and bringing new techniques in the table

Reference:

Jan 25, & 2016. (n.d.). Artist Profile: Raffy Napay weaves breathtaking works of art. SPOT.PH. https://www.spot.ph/arts-culture/arts-culture-peopleparties/64992/art-fair-philippines-2016-featured-artist-raffy-napay-20160125

Tittle: Genesis

Year Created: 1968

About the work:

An abstract work, first done in oil on canvas. Elements present in the painting are, curves, amorphic shapes, light and bright colors. Depths of color is also evident on the painting, deep reds growing into grays and blacks as they go inwards, and red’s brightness and luminosity extend as they project outward.  At the middle, lighter tone gather where the focus is on three sculptural forms, bright yellow in their highlights, flame-like shape, and oriented toward each other. This artwork is about beginnings, how life, culture, and creativity came into being.

Why I chose it:

I choose this artwork, because this art piece symbolized the birth of a new era for the Philippine arts and culture. Additionally, I like the use of bright colors as a representation. Its flowing, organic forms, colors, and rhythmic energy matched the dynamic spirit of performance and creativity here in the Philippines.

Reference:

CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art | CCP Encylopedia of Philippine Art. (n.d.). CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art. https://epa.culturalcenter.gov.ph/3/82/2189/

Tittle: Flower Thrower, also known as Love is in the Air

Year created: 2003

About the work:

A graffiti art that depicts a man wearing a scarf and a basketball cap and is throwing a flower to someone. The graffiti was black and white except for the flower that is colored rainbow. The man symbolizes the rioter, while the bouquet symbolizes peace, life and love. It symbolizes peace over violence and hope instead of destruction.

Why I chose it:

I chose this artwork because of its strong sense of awareness which I think is relevant today. This masterpiece is considered one of Banksy artwork symbolizing protest through peace. It highlights the message of choosing beauty and peace over aggression. Also, I love the use of the rainbow colors in the flower, I know it’s not directly tied to the LGBT, many viewers like me, reinterprets Banksy use of color carry message of inclusivity, equality and acceptance.

Reference:

Randall, K. (n.d.). 12 iconic graffiti art murals to stop you in your tracks! | TheCollector. TheCollector. https://www.thecollector.com/graffiti-wall-art/

Schulze, M. (2025, April 16). Banksy’s Rage, The Flower Thrower – Everything you need to know. https://publicdelivery.org/banksy-flower-thrower/

Tittle: The Dinner Party

Year created: 1974–1979

About this work:

The dinner party, an important art piece of 1970s with an approach of feminism and installation art combined. A massive triangular banquet table with 39 place setting, each honoring important woman from history or mythology. The embroidered runners, chalices, utensils and porcelain plates are intentional and reflects the cultural era, personality, or legacy of the woman I represents. The names of another 999 women are inscribed in gold on the white tile floor, total of 1,038 women.

Why I chose it:

I chose this artwork because it celebrates women’s contributions to history and considered the first epic feminist artwork. This artwork pushed feminism art in museums, because in the late 1970s and early 1980s, many institutions refused exhibit the work, because of the vulvar forms on the plate were considered pornographic by some curators and politicians. And before, embroidery, ceramics and textile are not considered high art, Museums were more in favor of paintings and sculpture.

Reference:

The Dinner Party by Judy Chicago. (n.d.). Brooklyn Museum. http://brooklynmuseum.org/exhibitions/dinner_party

Tittle:Autumn Rhythm (Number 30)

Year Created: 1950

About this work:

Pollock’s famous “drip” work, canvas used was lay flat on the floor. Paint was poured, dripped, scumbled, flicked, and splattered. The artist also used sticks, trowels, knives to build up dense lyrical compositions comprised of intricate skeins of line. His work captures a sense of rhythm, energy, and movement, reflecting both chaos and harmony in nature.

Why I chose it:

I chose this artwork because the artistry used broke the traditional use of brush, and brushwork refining painting as an act of movement and expression. This painting symbolizes freedom and innovation of Abstract Expressionism. Also, it highlights how emotion, rhythm and the subconscious could be express through painting specifically, abstraction.

Reference:

Autumn Rhythm (Number 30), 1950 by Jackson Pollock. (n.d.). Jackson Pollock. https://www.jackson-pollock.org/autumn-rhythm.jsp

Abstract Expressionism Movement Overview. (n.d.). The Art Story. https://www.theartstory.org/movement/abstract-expressionism/

Title: Luksong-Tinik (Jump over Thorns)

Year Created: 1973

About the painting: Luksong-Tinik shows a group of Filipino children playing a traditional game where they jump over hands stacked like thorns. The painting is full of movement and energy, showing how kids used to play outside, using just their bodies and imagination.

Why I chose this work: I chose this work because this is more than just an artwork, this brings back fun memories, and the real happiness we’re slowly losing. In this generation where everyone spends their time using gadgets, this work reminds us our lives before where real enjoyment and happiness occurs. This work by Vicente Manansala can be an instrument and to inspire the young generations to step outside their homes, play, and laugh again with their friends.

Reference: VICENTE SILVA MANANSALA (The Philippines 1910-1981) , Luksong-Tinik (Jumping over Thorns)  | Christie’s. (n.d.). Christie’s. https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5452577

Submitted by: Lorelle Jianne F. Hernandez

Title: Mujer filipina

Year created: 1895

Brief description: 

Mujer Filipina is a painting of a typical working-class indigenous Filipino woman in everyday late-19th-century attire. She walks down a road carrying a basket of wood and bananas on her head, a fish in one hand, and a reed umbrella across her chest, wearing a baro, saya, tapis, alampay, scapular, and elevated bakya. The background shows a rooster, a basket, a wooden fence, and a brick structure. This shows also the different influence of colonization with marks of the China, Japan, and Spain. 

Why I chose it: 

This painting caught my attention because it portrays a strong independent woman. As the painting depicts, she is juggling multiple responsibilities whilst carrying goods on her head and handling daily tasks with skill. This speaks to modern women, like me, as it is like a reminder that despite hurdles, most especially, to dictations of what a woman can and cannot do, we still get the final say to our decisions. 

Title: Mother and Child

Year created: 1976

Brief description: 

The painting depicts a young woman breastfeeding her infant with a working-class setting. This also carries subtle Catholic resonance, portraying the image of the Madonna and child. Manansala aimed to give honor to his fellow countrymen - Filipinos - by portraying them with dignity, capturing the joys, struggles, hardships, and daily labors of ordinary life, having lived through the American and Japanese occupations (VICENTE SILVA MANANSALA (1910-1981) , Mother and Child | Christie’s, n.d.)(VICENTE SILVA MANANSALA (1910-1981) , Mother and Child | Christie’s, n.d.).

Why I chose it: 

As a mama's girl, I can sympathize with the struggles of a mother. It is both a rewarding and a stressful task according to my mother. And the moment I saw this painting, I was brought back to the conversation me and my mama had with her admitting that if she had gone back time and was given a choice to continue her studies or marry, she said she'd rather study. And with that, I felt not sadness or betrayal but pity for my mother and what she could have gone through for her to say something like that.

Title: Mother and Child

Year created: 1976

Brief description: 

According to CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art, The Oblation is a Beaux-Arts sculpture by Guillermo Tolentino depicting a nearly nude young man standing with arms outstretched, head tilted back, and eyes closed, symbolizing selfless service and sacrifice. Rough Marikina River rocks stands as its base representing the Philippine archipelago, while kataka-taka leaves at the feet signify perseverance and dedication. 

Originally inaugurated in concrete in 1935 at UP Manila, it was later moved to UP Diliman, where a bronze version was unveiled in 1958. The statue has since inspired multiple casts across UP campuses. Tolentino described the Oblation as a symbol of truth and the spirit of youth ready to serve the nation, with a bronze plaque nearby quoting Rizal’s El Filibusterismo on the future of Filipino youth. (CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art | CCP Encylopedia of Philippine Art, n.d.)

Why I chose it: 

The oblation signifies as a powerful symbol of identity, youth, and service to the Philippine nation. For me, the Oblation is not only an artwork but also a reminder of the responsibility we carry as Filipinos to stand for truth and contribute to the nation’s progress.

Title: Rizal Monument

Year created: 1908-1913

About the work:

The monument shows Rizal standing with

with pride with a book in his hand with Richard Kissling designing the monument.

Why I choose it:

This monument is one of the first thing when you think about the Philippines it it seen on license plates, posters and etc. This also the first tourist attraction in the Philippines. It is with my mom and grandmother when we went there, so it reminds me the times of when I was young and it is our national hero.

Title: Bayanihan

Year Created: 1959

About the painting: This work was created in 1959 by Fernando Amorsolo. It shows a group of Filipino people carrying a nipa hut together to relocate to another place.

Why I chose this work: I chose to include this artwork to my assessment because it reminds me of something truly special in Filipino culture, where people are always willing and ready to help even if they didn’t know each other. In this artwork, we see people carrying nipa hut together, not because they have to, but because kindness, cooperation, and unity is really the nature of Filipinos. And that’s what I really admire in this work.

Reference: Abante, R. (n.d.). Artwork Analysis: “Bayanihan” by Fernando Amorsolo. Studocu. https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/university-of-manila/accounting/artwork-analysis-gegeqahg/25411571

Submitted by: Lorelle Jianne F. Hernandez

Title: The Builders

Year Created: 1928

Medium: Oil on canvas

About the work:

A major piece in his 1928 one-man show, the painting depicts a group of builders working together to construct an edifice.

Why I chose this painting:

I chose this painting because it portrays the strength and dignity of Filipino workers. Looking closely, every figure appears rough and seemingly tired—Edades painted them this way to highlight their strength and resilience. Furthermore, what I like about the painting is that it stands out from his usual works of landscapes with smooth brushstrokes and pleasing colors. Here, he used bold strokes and intense colors to add depth and emotion, effectively conveying the message he wanted to imply.

(Used Grammarly for final grammar checking)

References:

Cultural Center of the Philippines. (n.d.). The Builders. Encyclopedia of Philippine Art. Retrieved September 4, 2025, from https://epa.culturalcenter.gov.ph/3/82/2156/

Submitted by: Ojales, Julian Miguel S.

Title: Pila Sa Bigas

Year signed and dated: 1975

Medium: Oil on canvas

About the work:

It features a group of ordinary people lining up for their share of rice.

Why I chose this painting:

What I like about this painting is the reason behind its creation. At first glance, and judging by the title, people may see it simply as common folks waiting in line for rice. However, during the time this painting was created as part of a series, food rationing—especially rice—was strictly implemented and controlled by the National Grains Authority (known today as the National Food Authority). Housewives and even children had to line up every day just to obtain rice.

This piece highlights the inequality within the Philippine system, along with its deeply rooted issues of poverty. It portrays how Filipinos remained determined to survive despite the disadvantages imposed on them by their own system. Furthermore, this painting serves as a constant reminder that issues of inequality and poverty are still present and remain relevant today.

(used Grammarly for final grammar checking)

References:

Invaluable. (2021, February 27). Vicente Manansala (1910–1988) – Pila sa Bigas [Auction listing]. Invaluable. Retrieved September 4, 2025, from https://www.invaluable.com/auction-lot/vicente-manansala-1910-1988-pila-sa-bigas-39-c-3114a91acb?srsltid=AfmBOooQYv0Ey52A8NrjNwJnSFMQT_LOzAIMPd4b0OnDllaY-OdpZdOL

Submitted by: Ojales, Julian Miguel S.

Title: Madonna of the Slums

Year created: 1950

Medium: Oil on Masonite

About the work:

The painting shows a mother and her child who are believed to have come from the countryside and later became inhabitants of the city—specifically in the slums or an overcrowded area.

Why I chose this painting:

I chose this painting because it portrays the harsh living conditions of the slums, yet shows how Filipinos are resilient enough to withstand and survive despite these struggles. Furthermore, it highlights a mother’s love for her child. Despite the circumstances, the mother holds her child with a sense of protection and care, making the painting more moving, as it reminds us that a mother’s love never fades even in the face of harsh realities.

(Used Grammarly for final grammar checking)

References:

Guillermo, A. G. (2020, November 18). Madonna of the Slums. Cultural Center of the Philippines Encyclopedia of Philippine Art Digital Edition. Retrieved September 4, 2025, from https://epa.culturalcenter.gov.ph/3/82/2222/

Meyer, I. (2023, July 27). Vicente Manansala – Discover the Famous Filipino Cubism Artist. Art in Context. Retrieved September 4, 2025, from https://artincontext.org/vicente-manansala/

Submitted by: Ojales, Julian Miguel S.

Title: The Execution of Lady Jane Gray

Year Created: 1833

About the work:

Lady Jane Grey served as Queen of England for only 9 days after King Edward VI died in July 1553. King Edward passed the reign to Lady Jane Grey to keep his half sister, Mary Tudor from becoming queen. Mary Tudor wanted to claim the throne and gathered supporters to depose and overthrow Lady Jane. She was just 17 years old and was charged of treason and was then executed at Tower Green in the tower of London in February 1554.

Why I chose it:

This painting gave me so much realizations and truths about political conflicts. Hearing the story about her for the first time made me devastated, as it was heartbreaking to know that someone so young and innocent had to suffer from such a tragic fate because of politics. She had to face the most injustice, humiliating, and painful way of dying even though she was only forced into a role she never really wanted. Lady Jane Gray stands as proof of how cruel and unfair political power can be.

Reference:

The Execution of Lady Jane Grey. (2019, November 7). Nationalgallery.org.uk. https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/paintings/paul-delaroche-the-execution-of-lady-jane-grey

Submitted by: Naomi Angeline E. Madera

Title: Women Amidst Bananas

Year Created: 1950s

About the painting: This painting was created by Anita Magsaysay-Ho in 1950s. This painting shows a group of women carrying bananas. The artwork reflects Magsaysay-Ho’s deep admiration for the hardworking spirit of rural Filipino women, celebrating their role in everyday life with dignity and warmth.

Why I chose this work: I chose this work because I admire the way women in the painting work together and share space for each other. I appreciate it as for me, it shows a beautiful reflection of women empowerment. I love how this painting screams the sincere joy and connection of women by just simply being with one another.

Reference: ANITA MAGSAYSAY-HO | Christie’s. (n.d.). Christie’s. https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5803376

Submitted by: Lorelle Jianne F. Hernandez

Title: "Lympha"

Year Created: 2022

About the work:

Lympha represents the nympha (bride or maiden) who is portrayed as Daphne, from Greek mythology that has tried to escape Apollo's aggressive intentions. Her transformation into a laurel tree through metamorphosis helped her find a way out to escape him. Lympha in a luminous white dress symbolizes purity with her feet remaining muddy depicting her connection to the earth.

Why I chose it:

This sculpture incorporates both mythology and symbolism, making Lympha as Daphney serve as a powerful story which reflects purity, independence, and resiliency. Her face with the sheet wrapped around her body and her feet covered in soil impacted me as it express the sadness and despair of her life as she turned into a laurel tree desperately to escape from a man's relentless desire.

Reference:

Picci, B. (2022, July 8). Venice Art Biennale 2022 – “Lympha” by Paolo Fantin. Barbara Picci. https://barbarapicci.com/2022/07/08/venice-art-biennale-2022-lympha-by-paolo-fantin/

Submitted by: Naomi Angeline E. Madera

Title: “Raatajat rahanalaiset” (Burning the Brushwood) or Kaski

Year Created: 1893

About the work:

“Raatajat rahanalaiset” which means under the yoke of money depicts Finnish farmers who were considered as peasants working in slash-and-burn farming. They endlessly do burn-clearing because it is a traditional method of cultivation.

Why I chose it:

This picture had a huge impact on me as it reveals the harsh struggles of poverty. It illustrates the hardships of ordinary people enduring endless labor, yet gaining little or even nothing in return. As you gaze at the painting, you can slowly feel the anger, sadness, and exhaustion reflected in the little girl’s eyes. This imagery captures how ordinary people were treated as mere peasants in history, yet they continued to face life with strength and dignity in their struggle to survive.

Reference:

File:Raatajat rahanalaiset.JPG - Wikimedia Commons. (2022). Wikimedia.org. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Raatajat_rahanalaiset.JPG

Submitted by: Naomi Angeline E. Madera

About the work:

Karnabal from the pronunciation itself “carnival”, is a circus-themed painting that is full of vibrant colors and strange characters. The painting was made by collaborative people illustrating different scenes in Filipino society. The carnival theme symbolizes the chaotic struggles and serious truths of ordinary Filipinos after the reign of Marcos. It explores multiple identities that criticizes political, cultural, and social issues in the country.

Why I chose it:

What made me pick this artwork is that it captures the reality of Filipino society.  It reveals the hidden hypocrisy within my culture and highlights the contradictions present in everyday life. Through its carnival-like imagery, it unmasks deeper truths about political power, social struggles, and the illusions people often live with. 

Reference:

Ygiemarielle: A Contemporary Art Museum. (2015). Ygiemarielle. https://ygiemarielle.blogspot.com/2015/07/a-contemporary-art-museum.html

Title: Planting Rice

Year Created: 1949

About the work:

Planting Rice is a painting that depicts Filipino farmers working together in the rice fields. It illustrates the vivid scene of rural life, the beauty of nature, and the hard work of farmers in providing the country’s staple food.

Why I chose it:

I chose this artwork in a way of honoring farmers for their endless labor in providing our staple food. This painting shows the dedication and sacrifice of rice farmers do in harvesting rice under the heat of the sun. It reminds us of the effort they put into planting and harvesting just so we can have rice on our tables. Without their perseverance, we wouldn’t have the staple food that has been part of our daily meals for generations.

Reference:

Magpantay, K. (2020, May 27). Philippine Art Scene: 10 Important Paintings in Filipino Art History. Thetastelessavocado 🥑. https://thetastelessavocado.wordpress.com/2020/05/27/philippine-art-scene-10-important-paintings-in-filipino-art-history/

Submitted by: Naomi Angeline E. Madera

Title: Las Vírgenes Cristianas Expuestas al Populacho

Year Created: 1884

About the work:

Christian women in Rome are being humiliated and treated as objects by people in crown during the persecutions under Emperor Nero. A soft light falls on the maidens, symbolizing their purity and innocence, while the men around them show mocking and aggressive gestures.

Why I chose this work:

I chose this piece of art because the message of suffering, injustice, and dignity really struck me. It is hard not to realize how a painting can portray women (both in the past and today) as often powerless victims of the patriarchy in the society to which they belong. This made me reflect on how art can reveal harsh realities of the past while also reminding us to value human dignity and equality today.

Reference:

CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art | CCP Encylopedia of Philippine Art. (n.d.). CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art. https://epa.culturalcenter.gov.ph/3/82/2319/

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Submitted by: Naomi Angeline E. Madera

Title: The Creation of Adam

Year: 1508-12

About the work:

It illustrates the Biblical creation narrative from the Book of Genesis in which Godgives life to Adam, the first man.

Why I chose this: I chose this artwork of Michelangelo because it symbolizes the spark of life in mankind—the creation of the first human, our father, Adam. It shows Adam reaching the finger of God symbolizing the divine spark and intellect granted to humanity. This fascinates me that is why i chose this painting

Reference:

Rzepinska, M. (1994). The Divine wisdom of Michelangelo in “The Creation of Adam.” Artibus Et Historiae, 15(29), 181. https://doi.org/10.2307/1483492

Submitted by:

Perez Ferdzon Paul S.

Title: School of Athens

Year Created: 1509-11

About this work:

The fresco depicts a congregation of ancient philosophers, mathematicians, and scientists, with Plato and Aristotle featured in the center. The identities of most figures are ambiguous or discernable only through subtle details or allusions;^[1] among those commonly identified are Socrates, Pythagoras, Archimedes, Heraclitus, Averroes, and Zarathustra.

Why I chose this:

I chose this work because the artwork brings together Ancient Greece’s greatest minds, such as Plato, Aristotle, Socrates, and Pythagoras, in one scene. It celebrates human wisdom, critical thinking, and the pursuit of truth.

Its message of education and communication is still relevant today, despite the fact that it was painted in the early 1500s. It serves as a reminder that communication and the exchange of ideas are the foundations of knowledge.

References:

Grovier, K. (2022, February 24). The School of Athens: A detail hidden in a masterpiece. https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20200910-the-school-of-athens-a-detail-hidden-in-a-masterpiece

Submitted by:

Perez Ferdzon Paul S.

Title: Annunciation

Year Created: 1472-76

About this work:

The subject matter of the work is drawn from Luke 1.26–39. It depicts the angel Gabriel announcing to Mary that she would conceive miraculously and give birth to a son to be named Jesus and called "the Son of God", whose reign would never end. The subject of the annunciation was very popular for contemporaneous artworks painted in Christian countries such as Italy and had been depicted many times in Florentine art, including several examples by the Early Renaissance painter Fra Angelico.

Why I chose this:

I chose “The Annunciation” because it is not only a masterpiece of early renaissance art, but also a work that unites spirituality, symbolism, and Leonardo da Vinci’s extraordinary talent. The painting also shows the biblical moment when the Angel Gabriel tells Mary she will give birth to Jesus. It’s one of the most important events in Christian belief, making it spiritually powerful.

Reference:

Artlex. (n.d.). Annunciation by Leonardo da Vinci and Andrea del Verrocchio. https://www.artlex.com/artwork/annunciation-by-leonardo-da-vinci-and-andrea-del-verrocchio/

Submitted by:

Perez Ferdzon Paul S.

Title: The making of the philippine flag

Year Created: 1898

About this work:

The making of Philippine flag is a masterpiece painted by Fernando Amorsolo May 28, 1898 who

was one of the most important artists in the history of painting in the Philippines. The painting shows three women who were tasked by Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo to sew the first flag for the new republic namely Marcella Marino de Agoncillo (on the right side) refer as the mother of the Philippine flag, with the help of Lorenza and Delfina Herbosa de Natividad which is actually the daughter of Marcela.

Why I Chose this:

I chose this art of Amorsolo because the act of creating our beloved flag reflects the love for the country and the hope for a free nation. For us Filipinos, this painting is a reminder of how patriotism starts with small but meaningful acts.

I chose “The Making of the Philippine Flag” because it connects art, history, and patriotism. It reminds everyone that independence was built not just by warriors, but also by ordinary people who believed in the dream of freedom.

References:

Lesaca, J. C. (n.d.). Making-of-the-Philippine-Flag-Group-3. Scribd. https://www.scribd.com/document/519070411/Making-of-the-Philippine-Flag-Group-3

Submitted by:

Perez Ferdzon Paul S.

Title: Las Virgenes Cristianas Expuestas al Populacho

Year Created: 1884

About this work: Las Virgenes Cristianas Expuestas al Populacho is a "landmark painting" depicting the persecution of Christians in Ancient Rome.Described as a masterpiece remarkable in the aspects of quality, composition, and historical context, it portrays two scantily clothed Christian female slaves being mocked by a group of boorish Roman male onlookers.

Why I chose this:

I chose this work Las Virgenes Cristianas Expuestas al Populacho by Félix Resurrección Hidalgo because this artwork is powerful since the painting carries deep historical, cultural, and emotional meaning, especially for us Filipinos. This shows Christian virgins exposed to a hostile crowd, symbolizing innocence, purity, and faith being persecuted. For us filipinos during the Spanish period, this painting reflected their own suffering under colonial rule.

Reference:

Philippine Daily Inquirer - Google News Archive Search. (n.d.). https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2479&dat=20010214&id=G342AAAAIBAJ&sjid=hCUMAAAAIBAJ&pg=1420,21237078

Submitted by:

Perez Ferdzon Paul S.

Title: Madonna of the Slums

Year Created: 1950

About this work:

Manansala is a Filipino National Artist in Visual Arts and a Filipino cubist artist and illustrator. He developed a new imagery based on the postwar urban experience. The city of Manila, through the vision of the artist, assumed a strong folk character. He painted an innovative mother and child, Madonna of the Slums, in 1950, which reflected the poverty in postwar Manila.

Why I chose this:

I chose this artwork because the mother and child embodies strength, dignity, and perseverance through hardships ins life. it highlights the socioeconomic disparities and the desperate search for a better life in a city that was still rebuilding after World War 2. this highlights the ability of filipinos to face challenges in life and overcome them everytime

Reference:

CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art | CCP Encylopedia of Philippine Art. (n.d.). CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art. https://epa.culturalcenter.gov.ph/3/82/2222/

Submitted by:

Perez Ferdzon Paul S.

Title: Harana

Year Created: 2021

About the work:

The artist used an acrylic paint on canvas to represent the traditional courtship or 'serenade culture' in the Philippines, known as harana.

Why I chose it: I, myself, always wanted to experience what it's like to be serenaded by someone. I chose this work because I am fond of the concept of the traditional courtship or harana here in our country and how romantic it is. It represents love, patience, respect, and determination where a man/woman would sing a love song and express his/her love through music.

References: Agopitac, J. (2021). Harana. drybrush. https://drybrush.com/artworks/jude-agopitac/harana-1

Submitted by: Jazmin Claire R. Verdadero

Title: Welcome to the World

Year Created: 2015

About the work: The artist made use of charcoal of charred Europe and linear drawing technique to create this meaningful art.

Why I chose it: I chose this artwork because it symbolizes the beginning of life The sound of the baby's crying, the hands of healthcare professionals surrounding the baby, especially the mother who carries the baby inside her womb for 9 months represents care, protection, resilience etc. Also, as a woman, I have a lot of respect for all of the mothers for bringing a child out of this world despite the hardships of pregnancy.

Reference: Tan, R. (2015). Welcome to the World. Art Majeur. https://www.artmajeur.com/roy-tan/en/artworks/13482539/welcome-to-the-world#original

Submitted by: Jazmin Claire R. Verdadero

Title: (Untitled)

Medium: Oil on canvas

Year created: 1972

About the work: This unfinished painting was the last artwork of Fernando Amorsolo before he died. It is now displayed at the National Museum of Fine Arts.

Why I chose it: I am fascinated by the story behind the painting by Amorsolo. For so many decades no one knew who's the woman on the portrait until on 2017, it's confirmed that it was Vicky Belo's mother, Florencia "Nena" Singson Gonzalez-Belo. Unfortunately, Amorsolo died before he even finished the art he's working at. In addition, you can notice that only half of the body was done but you can still see the beauty and heart of the painting.

References: GMA Integrated News. (2024). GMA NEWS ONLINE. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/lifestyle/artandculture/912866/did-you-know-that-fernando-amorsolo-s-last-painting-is-an-unfinished-portrait-of-vicki-belo-s-mom/story/

Title: Harana

Year Created: 2021

About the work: The artist used an acrylic paint on canvas to represent the traditional courtship or 'serenade culture' in the Philippines, known as harana.

Why I chose it: I, myself, always wanted to experience what it's like to be serenaded by someone. I chose this work because I am fond of the concept of the traditional courtship or harana here in our country and how romantic it is. It represents love, patience, respect, and determination where a man/woman would sing a love song and express his/her love through music.

References: Agopitac, J. (2021). Harana. drybrush. https://drybrush.com/artworks/jude-agopitac/harana-1

Submitted by: Jazmin Claire R. Verdadero

Title: Edge of Darkness

Year Created: 2024

About the work: This photo was taken from the edge of the cliff in Iceland, capturing the breathtaking beauty of Northern Lights. The photo won an award for Global Photography Awards in 2024.

Why I chose it: I am mesmerized by the beauty of northern lights, and it's always been my dream to see this in person with my own eyes. Also, I admire how the photographer perfectly captured the lovely aurora borealis. It felt like I already see it in person.

References: Oevrevik, J.T (2024). Edge of Darkness. Global Photography Awards. https://globalphotographyawards.com//winner-info.php?id=392

Submitted by: Jazmin Claire R. Verdadero

Title: Young Spanish Woman Playing the Guitar

Year created: 1898

About the work: The artist made use of oil painting on a canvas. The artwork is now in the hands of the National Gallery of Art.

Why I chose it: I chose this artwork because of my love for music. Way back when I was in elementary, I became interested in playing an instrument, specifically guitar. It became my hobby and there is something about the sound of a guitar that captivates me. I saw myself the moment I looked at the painting, a woman playing her favorite song until her fingertips get numb.

References: Handmade Piece. (n.d). Young Spanish Woman Playing the Guitar. https://www.handmadepiece.com/young-spanish-woman-playing-the-guitar-handmade-oil-painting-reproduction-on-canvas-by-artist-pierre-auguste-renoir.html

Submitted by: Jazmin Claire R. Verdadero

Title: Sunset

Year Created: 2019

About the work: The photo was taken while Hong Chen's on a trip. He enjoyed beautiful sunsets and felt amazed to see wildlife. This work won first place at the International Photography Award.

Why I chose it: I chose this photo for a reason that I always loved watching the sunset ever since I was a child. I am mesmerized by how the sky slowly turns into a golden scenery. It gives me peace and assurance that everything will be fine, and we can always start again because it'll never be over. Maybe, this could be just the beginning of an end.

References: Chen, H. (2019). Sunset. International Photography Award. https://photoawards.com/winner/zoom.php?eid=8-214300-21

Submitted by: Jazmin Claire R. Verdadero

Title: La Barca de Aqueronte(The Boat of Charon)

Year Created: 1887

About the work:

It is an oil painting inspired by the artist's reading of Dante's Inferno. This painting depicts the mythological ferryman Charon that guides the souls of the dead across the River Acheron towards the gates of hell.

Why I chose it: (I used Quillbot for grammar check)

I chose this because of the depth this painting has towards the afterlife. The nude figures at the left side of the painting show the expressions of fear, anguish, and despair, which are common, especially if we are in the face of death. It shows the fragility of humans in facing their eternal fate and the efforts to run from these situations. Additionally, the dramatic movement of the contrast of dark and light colors is notable and blends very well.

Reference:

Photo was taken personally at the National Museum of Fine Arts at Manila.

Submitted by: Seth Asher F. Medino

Title: Hatid-Sundo

Year Created: 2019, 2025

About the work:

The figurines were all made using terra cotta clay by a Negros Occidental artist named Susanito Sarnate. It displays various figurines on a daily basis of waiting for public transport while all doing their own personal things.

Why I chose it: (I used Quillbot for grammar check)

While I was visiting the National Museum of Fine Arts, I came across this display of terra cotta clay figures and was immediately hooked on the exhibit. The precision of this artwork was exemplary, as it captures the image of the diversity of every Filipino in public transport or a terminal. Various emotions, actions, and images are seen all throughout the exhibit, which makes me remember the word "sonder," which refers to my realization that every random passerby in my life lives a life as vivid and complex as my own.

Reference:

Photo was taken personally at the National Museum of Fine Arts at Manila.

Submitted by: Seth Asher F. Medino

Title: Gathering of Heroes

Year Created: 2017

About the work:

This artwork brings together various Philippine national heroes and historical figures into a single frame and reimagined as a team of "superheroes" that are ready to defend the Philippines.

Why I chose it: (I used Quillbot for grammar check)

I chose this painting, as it shows nationalism and patriotism towards our country, the Philippines. It also serves as a movement of revolutionaries in today's era, as our national heroes are portrayed in modern heroism as "superheroes" that join together as one in a constant and ongoing effort of heroism towards the nation's welfare, growth, and unity. Additionally, this portrait serves as a tribute to the sacrifices of our late heroes at the time of colonization.

Reference:

PressReader.com - digital newspaper & magazine subscriptions. (n.d.). PressReader. https://www.pressreader.com/philippines/philippine-daily-inquirer-1109/20170529/282733406817446

Submitted by: Seth Asher F. Medino

Title: The Wanderer Above The Sea Of Fog

Year Created: c. 1818

About the work:

An oil painting by a German Romantic artist named Caspar David Friedrich that depicts a solitary man seen from behind standing on a rocky cliff. It features a vast landscape of mountains and forests that is covered by a thick sea of fog.

Why I chose it: (I used Quillbot for grammar check)

This artwork evokes a deep sense of solitude, awe, and a sense of accomplishment in me through its romantic movement in art. While the man is seen alone above the cliff, I project this image as a stance of contemplation and self-reflection on the long and strenuous journey of our lives. That no matter where we are, we all would reach our own peak at a certain point in time. Additionally, the soothing choice of palette never ceases to pique my interest in solitary materials.

Reference:

Du Plessis, A. (2023, September 30). “Wanderer Above the Sea of Fog” by Caspar David Friedrich. Art in Context. https://artincontext.org/wanderer-above-the-sea-of-fog-by-caspar-david-friedrich/

Submitted by: Seth Asher F. Medino

Title: Fallen Angel

Year Created: 1847

About the work:

The painting centers on a figure of a muscular and beautiful male nude with large wings while covering his face while sitting on a rocky surface. This was a painting depicting the casting out of Lucifer from Heaven.

Why I chose it: (I used Quillbot for grammar check)

I chose this painting because of its ability to show the beauty of the Fallen, Lucifer, as he was not portrayed as a horrible and scary demon, but rather as a gorgeous and tragic angel. The style of this painting amuses me, as it was able to communicate thousands of emotions of Lucifer, specifically from the eyes, face, and body orientation, without saying a single word. It also captures the consequences of pride, arrogance, and rebellion of Lucifer against God, which resulted in him being cast out of the heavens. A beautiful representation of God's power and grace.

Reference:

Du Plessis, A. (2024, January 12). “Fallen Angel” by Alexandre Cabanel – famous painting of Lucifer. Art in Context. https://artincontext.org/fallen-angel-by-alexandre-cabanel/

Submitted by: Seth Asher F. Medino

Title: The Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian

Year Created: 1616

About the work:

This painting features Saint Sebastian, a Christian martyr who was executed due to his faith in the 3rd century. He is depicted in a semi-nude portrait, highlighting his beautiful, youthful, and luminous body against a dark and gloomy background while being shot by arrows.

Why I chose it: (I used Quillbot for grammar check)

Despite its personal connection to me and my former senior high school, San Sebastian College Recoletos de Cavite, I chose this particular artwork due to its elegance and unique portrayal of St. Sebastian's martyrdom. Despite the arrows piercing through his body, he still maintains that soft gaze towards the Heaven, gloriously displaying his unwavering faith and spiritual fortitude with God even in the face of death and suffering. I am also amazed by how the light and shadows were masterfully used in highlighting the purity of the subject.

Reference:

The Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian (1616) by Guido Reni. (2024). www.artchive.com. https://www.artchive.com/artwork/the-martyrdom-of-saint-sebastian-guido-reni-1616/

Submitted by: Seth Asher F. Medino

Submitted By: Sean Alwynjim A. Petrache

Submitted By: Sean Alwynjim A. Petrache

Submitted By: Sean Alwynjim A. Petrache

Submitted By; Sean Alwynjim A. Petrache

Submitted By: Sean Alwynjim A. Petrache

Submitted By: Sean Alwynjim A. Petrache

Title: Bayanihan

Year Created: 1959

Description: A mural that portrays the Filipino tradition of bayanihan, where neighbors help carry a house to a new location.

Why I chose it: I chose this artwork because it shows the spirit of unity and helping one another. It reminds me that Filipinos work together in times of need without expecting anything in return. The painting teaches the value of cooperation and kindness, which are still important today.

REFERENCE: https://philstarlife.com/geeky/660360-heroic-dna-botong-bayani-bayanihan?page=3

Title: Madonna of the Slums

Year Created: 1950

Description: A painting of a mother and child in an urban poor setting, highlighting poverty after World War II.

Why I chose it: I chose this artwork because it shows the real struggle of mothers and children after World War II. It is powerful and easy to relate to since poverty is still a problem in the Philippines today. The painting reminds me to care for others, be aware of social issues, and see how art can give a voice to people who are often not heard.

REFERENCE: 

https://epa.culturalcenter.gov.ph/3/82/2222/

Title: The Builders

Year Created: 1928

Description: A modernist painting showing construction workers, emphasizing strength and progress.

Why I chose it: I chose this artwork because it shows the hard work and strength of Filipino laborers who help build the nation. It is different from traditional art styles, which makes it stand out and feel more modern. The painting reminds me to value the efforts of workers who often go unnoticed but play a big role in the country’s progress.

Title: The Birth of Venus

Year Created: 1486

Description: A Renaissance painting of Venus, the goddess of love, emerging from the sea on a shell.

Why I chose it: I chose this artwork because it is a timeless symbol of beauty and love. It shows grace and elegance, which makes it one of the most celebrated works of the Renaissance. The painting reminds me that art can capture ideals that stay meaningful through generations.

REFERENCE:

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Birth-of-Venus

Title: Girl with a Pearl Earring 

Year Created: 1665

Description: Often called the “Mona Lisa of the North,” this portrait shows a girl wearing an exotic dress and a striking pearl earring.

Why I chose it: I chose this artwork because it shows mystery and simplicity in a very quiet way. The girl’s expression and the pearl earring make the painting unforgettable. It reminds me that beauty can be shown without being grand or complicated.

REFERENCE:

https://www.mauritshuis.nl/en/our-collection/artworks/670-girl-with-a-pearl-earring

Title: Guernica

Year Created: 1937

Description: A large black-and-white mural depicting the bombing of Guernica during the Spanish Civil War.

Why I chose it: I chose this artwork because it is a strong statement against war and violence. The black-and-white style makes the suffering and pain more real. The painting reminds me that art is not only for beauty but also for fighting for peace and justice.

REFERENCE: 

https://smarthistory.org/picasso-guernica/

Title: Vendor

Year: 2023

About the work: The art shows a mother’s love and strength despite challenges life throw to them and these shows in the details of the artwork such as using oil on canvas, an earthy hue, and micro-cube patterns.

Why I choose it:

I chose this art because it shows strength, the strength of a woman in her motherhood, who chooses to strive and work hard despite the struggles and challenges that life throws at her. The art itself conveys that she may not have had everything she wanted, but she had everything she needed to live. And despite juggling the weights of her child, baskets of fruits and vegetables, and the problems suffocating within her, there is still beauty and resilience in the lively colors illustrated.

Reference: 

Nami Art Gallery. (n.d.). Vendor. https://www.namiart-gallery.com/products/vendor-2?srsltid=AfmBOoppfrzDw5bB7ncQmfhJp8D0cwUFzgXbp8_Pp_AZGeVedq8LZPiy

Jessica Mae B. Tagnipez

Title: Candle Vendors

Year:1976

About the work: The art illustrates layered and geometric planes that shows simplicity of candle vendors.

Why I choose it:

I chose this art because it reflects Filipino vendors hustling in the streets, particularly at cemeteries. Because behind these vendors are women of courage who show up even when they are also experiencing fear and pain. For instance, when November 1st comes, a day to commemorate the souls of their loved ones, instead of taking a day to pray for those souls, they are out in the streets selling for other people’s visits to their loved ones. And the illustrated candles show respect to both those who are still living on this earth and those who have already departed from this world.

Reference:

WikiArt Visual Art Encyclopedia. (2013). Candle Vendors. https://www.wikiart.org/en/vicente-manansala/candle-vendors-1976

Title: Luksong Tinik

Year: 1959

About the work: This art is an oil on canvas and was on sale last February 2020 in Mutual Art. It illustrates the popular pinoy game called Lukson Tinik, played by the kids in their humble homes.

Why I choose it:

I chose this art because it makes me reminisce and feel again the emotions of excitement and fun I felt when I was still a kid playing this kind of pinoy games. It has shown humbleness and simplicity when everything was still about being in the present and playing with whatever you have and whoever you’re with. This art somehow speaks to my heart, maybe because I was once like these kids, too.

Reference:

 Mutual Art. (2020). Luksong Tinik (1959) - Fernando Amorsolo. https://share.google/PlPqbcS306MeyTDgF

Title: San Giorgio Maggiore at Dusk

Year: 1908-1912

About the work: The arts’ medium is oil painting and the colors shows 

Why I choose it:

I chose this art because I love sunrises and sunsets, and the artwork showcases the hues of the sun. This illustrates peace in the reflection of the sky and sun on the sea, and it’s a beautiful reminder of goodness that God have created in our world.

Reference:

We Love Art. (2022). The 10 most famous artists of all time, according to the We Love Art community. Claude Monet. https://www.weloveart.com/the-10-most-famous-artists-of-all-time/?srsltid=AfmBOoo77qbuWwzgIBPDStPeZYq1nadaoeTZCDaTyVyp8zUq4svoUgOU

Title: The Persistence of Memory

Year: 1904-1998

About the work: The art was created by Salvador Dali and it shows details about clock being Malleable or Flexible.

Why I choose it:

I chose this because it reflects the way I see myself and my goals, as shown and illustrated the clocks melt away and reality becomes broken or distorted. And same goes with my experience in life, that as time goes by time, memory, and our existence can be fragile and uncertain. This art has its own way of revealing its context and the concept others see.

Reference:

 We Love Art. (2022). The 10 most famous artists of all time, according to the We Love Art community. Salvador Dali. https://www.weloveart.com/the-10-most-famous-artists-of-all-time/?srsltid=AfmBOoo77qbuWwzgIBPDStPeZYq1nadaoeTZCDaTyVyp8zUq4svoUgOU

Title: Birth of Venus 

Year: 1928-1987

About the work: The work is created with the We Love Airbox, and the artist of this art is Andy Warhol. It speaks of femininity and strength.

Why I choose it:

I chose this artwork because I can see beauty and strength through the art itself, and the vibrant colors and flowing lines of it. For me, this art speaks the loudest for the importance of womanhood and natural beauty.

Reference:

We Love Art. (2022). The 10 most famous artists of all time, according to the We Love Art community. Andy Warhol. https://www.weloveart.com/the-10-most-famous-artists-of-all-time/?srsltid=AfmBOoo77qbuWwzgIBPDStPeZYq1nadaoeTZCDaTyVyp8zUq4svoUgOU

Title: Luksong Tinik

Year created: 1973

About the work: This art by Vicente Manansala titled “Luksong Tinik” shows the kids from a small town in the Philippines having fun. Vicente focused on showing rural scenes in his art. Like the Luksong Tinik, it shows how the Filipinos can still enjoy themselves even though they are suffering from poverty. He used cubist elements,dynamic composition, and expressive color to capture the energy of his art.

Why did I choose this art: For me, this artwork by Vicente Manansala is more than just a painting. For me,it feels like my own journey in college.I see in it the way I endure struggles as a student and still manage to move forward. The children in his art are smiling and playing despite whatever struggles are surrounding them, reminding me of how we can choose to show joy even in difficult times. It shows that life is simpler and full of happiness, no matter how heavy the weight you're carrying behind your back. You need to still allow moments of laughter to break free from those hard moments. His use of ordinary subjects like children’s games like luksong tinik speaks about resilience and the simple strength of everyday life in the Philippines.

Reference:Lin, M. Y. Vicente Silva Manansala (The Philippines 1910-1981) , luksong-tinik (Jumping over thorns) | Christie’s | Fine Art, Luxury & Antiques | Auctions & Private Sales.

Title: Bonifacio and the Katipunan Revolution Monument

Year Created: 1998

About the work: the KKK or Kataas-taasang, kagalang-galangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan monument in manila was honoured for the katipunan warriors who fought the Spanish force during Spanish colonisation in the Philippines. Eduardo Castrillo made the sculpture  in 1998 to commemorate the katipuneros who gave their life for the country. It is a solemn piece of sculpture that can be seen in the heart of Manila .

Why did I choose this art: I chose this sculpture because it is one of the art that I often see when I am going to SM Manila.There are also countless people who are passing this art without knowing the background of it. As a Manileño, I am proud to see the monument of the KKK with Andres Bonifacio leading the revolution. This art also gave me the spirit of fighting for my goal, like how Bonifacio fought for the freedom of our country.

Title: Bonifacio and the Katipunan Revolution Monument

Year Created: 1998

About the work: the KKK or Kataas-taasang, kagalang-galangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan monument in manila was honoured for the katipunan warriors who fought the Spanish force during Spanish colonisation in the Philippines. Eduardo Castrillo made the sculpture  in 1998 to commemorate the katipuneros who gave their life for the country. It is a solemn piece of sculpture that can be seen in the heart of Manila .

Why did I choose this art: I chose this sculpture because it is one of the art that I often see when I am going to SM Manila.There are also countless people who are passing this art without knowing the background of it. As a Manileño, I am proud to see the monument of the KKK with Andres Bonifacio leading the revolution. This art also gave me the spirit of fighting for my goal, like how Bonifacio fought for the freedom of our country.

Reference: DCY. (2021, December 1). Glimpses: The Bonifacio shrine in Manila in the eyes of today's youth. Eagle News. https://www.eaglenews.ph/glimpses-the-bonifacio-shrine-in-manila-in-the-eyes-of-todays-youth/

title: Madonna of the Slums

Year: 1950

About the work: This art by Manansala showed the post war situation in the Philippines, according to the Abcott Institute. Like the usual art of Manansala, it also has the style of cubism. The main focus of his art shows a mother holding her baby in front of the slums. With the speculations of Abcott institute, the slums are based on the streets of Manila. He shows how compacted the houses are, showing that it is overly populated even in the 1950s. 

Why did I choose this art: I chose this artwork by Manansala because of how he gave focus to a subject and added additional information on the background. In this case, the main focus is the poor mother and her baby, with the background of urban houses in the slums. I am intrigued by this art because I can see how poor the slums are here in Manila up to this day. A lot of presidents have passed but the issue with poverty has not been fulfilled yet. I can understand that it was hard back then since it is the post war. Today, we have a lot of funds that are going to the politicians pockets, not in the poor’s food bowl.

Reference: Cultural Center of the Philippines. CCP Encylopedia of Philippine art. CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art. https://epa.culturalcenter.gov.ph/3/82/2222/

Title: Luksong Tinik

Year created: 1973

About the work: This art by Vicente Manansala titled “Luksong Tinik” shows the kids from a small town in the Philippines having fun. Vicente focused on showing rural scenes in his art. Like the Luksong Tinik, it shows how the Filipinos can still enjoy themselves even though they are suffering from poverty. He used cubist elements,dynamic composition, and expressive color to capture the energy of his art.

Why did I choose this art: For me, this artwork by Vicente Manansala is more than just a painting. For me,it feels like my own journey in college.I see in it the way I endure struggles as a student and still manage to move forward. The children in his art are smiling and playing despite whatever struggles are surrounding them, reminding me of how we can choose to show joy even in difficult times. It shows that life is simpler and full of happiness, no matter how heavy the weight you're carrying behind your back. You need to still allow moments of laughter to break free from those hard moments. His use of ordinary subjects like children’s games like luksong tinik speaks about resilience and the simple strength of everyday life in the Philippines.

Reference:Lin, M. Y. Vicente Silva Manansala (The Philippines 1910-1981) , luksong-tinik (Jumping over thorns) | Christie's. Christie’s | Fine Art, Luxury & Antiques | Auctions & Private Sales. https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5452577

Title: The Gray Chapter

Year: 2014

About the work: This is an album cover for the band Slipknot. Slipknot is a Nu metal band who originated from Iowa, USA. The album cover is made to commemorate their fallen band member, Paul Gray. Paul is the bassist of the band and also co-founded the band in 1999. He helped the band to write their famous songs in the early years of Slipknot. Paul helped to write “Wait and Bleed”, “People=Sh*t”, and “Duality”. According to fans, he is the soul of the band since he is one of the main song writers. He died from a drug overdose in 2010. His death shocked the whole nu metal community including his band mates, for once, his band unmasked during a conference to announce his death. The album shows the skeleton figure to highlight death and the haunting presence of losing someone.

Why did I choose this art: I chose this specific album cover from slipknot because it shows how the band cares for their fallen bandmate. Slipknot may look bad for others but the songs they produce have a lot of deep meanings. Most of their songs contain a message for people who are suffering from mental health disabilities like depression, anxiety and PTSD. This specific album has my favourite songs from the band titled “The Devil in I”. It is about moving on from mourning and inner struggles. This song helped me to go through my emotions because I can relate to what the song said. The struggle between myself and my inner self, the song said, I need to “kill” my inner demons so that I can have a peace of mind.

Reference: McDonald, W. (2025, August 15). Slipknot. Encyclopedia Britannica.   https://www.britannica.com/topic/Slipknot-band

Title: Burj Khalifa

Year: 2004

About the work: The Burj Khalifa is the tallest skyscraper in the world, standing at 2,717 feet with 828 floors. It is located in Dubai, UAE, beside the Dubai Mall. Burj Khalifa is made to show the modernization of the UAE. The country wants to show how they succeed from a deserted country with no establishments to a country with modernized buildings, housings, and malls. They were once a poor country but used their natural oils for investments, Burj Khalifa is only one of the results of the investments of UAE. The skyscraper is not only for show, it can house guests, it has its own hospital inside and a commercial floor. They are using the whole building for the needs of the citizens. 

Why did I choose this work: This structural work is useful for the tourism of Dubai. It is near the Dubai mall which is a public place so more tourists came to Dubai mall to capture this building. The Burj Khalifa also has a high tech light system that can change to whatever the event is. For example, the lights of the building changed to our flag’s color during the “National Heroes Day” of the Philippines. It is one of my favourite architectural works because I get to see it in person during the new year’s countdown. The whole Burj Khalifa counts down from ten to welcome 2023.

Reference: Burj khalifa. (2010, January 6). Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Burj-KhaLlifa

Title:Napoleon Crossing the alps

Year: 1801

About the work: Napoleon led his army to invade the northern part of Italy for the Battle of Marengo in 1800. Napoleon faced disadvantages when it came to numbers of soldiers, but he still managed to win the war with the help of the reinforcement of France. After the battle, he commissioned Jacques-Louis David to make a painting for his victory over Italy. According to Iain Zaczek, Napoleon is the one who chose the scene and asked the artist to make him look calm while mounted on a fiery steed. The idea of Napoleon is to show that he is calm no matter how hard the battle he faced. In the painting, Napoleon also looks proud after conquering Italy. David made him look victorious in his pose, showing how confident Napoleon is that he can dominate every country he wants to defeat.

Why did I choose this work: I chose this work because it shows the power of trusting yourself when facing impossible circumstances. If Napoleon can conquer lands with just a little number of men, I can also achieve my goals by just trusting my own worth. This artwork by David gave me the idea of being confident. I need to trust the things that I can do, no matter how hard the obstacles are. I can also relate this artwork to my graduation picture. My graduation picture shows how calm and confident I look after facing difficult times. Just like Napoleon, I faced the battle with just a few people believing that I can make it through. But I also trust myself, I believe that I can make it to the graduation’s stage and soon be victorious. 

Reference: Zaczek, I. (2023, April 6). Napoleon crossing the Alps. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/art/Napoleon-Crossing-the-Alps 

Artist: Claude Monet

Title: The Water Lily Pond

Year Created: 1899

About the work:

In the 1980’s Monet purchased a property in Giverny which had an amazing garden designed by the artist and its Water Lily Pond. He planted the water lilies for fun and never intended it to be the subject of his painting, but then as they grew he saw the beauty in them and it became his model.

Why I chose it:

Aside from how appealing it is, the calmness of the painting captured my eye. It speaks about finding peace in the simplest ways and slowing down and being still like the water in the pond. Sometimes we forget to take a pause from all the happenings in our life and we might feel overwhelmed, this painting serves a reminder that sometimes we need to slow down and take things in. It also reminds me that finding peace doesn’t have to be grand, and most of the time it is the beauty that what we observe in our everyday lives.

The Water Lily Pond, 1899 by Claude Monet. (n.d.). Claude Monet. https://www.claude-monet.com/the-water-lily-pond.jsp

Submitted by: Eliana Rae O. De Guia

Artist: Cassius Marcellus Coolidge

Title: A Friend in Need

Year Created: 1903

About the work:

The painting is from a series “Dogs Playing Poker”. This shows a group of dogs around the table playing poker, while the bulldog slips an ace card under the table to give it to his friend for him to have four aces.

Why I chose it:

I chose this painting because I find it entertaining, but as I reflect on it I realized the message. The artwork shows a group of friends who was playing poker and the other dog secretly passed an ace under the table to his friend, for me this shows that whenever our friends are in a risky situation we are ready to help them with whatever we can, sometimes even it requires breaking some rules.

A Friend in Need 1903 C.M.Coolidge.jpg - Wikimedia Commons. (n.d.).https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:A_Friend_in_Need_1903_C.M.Coolidge.jpg

Submitted by: Eliana Rae O. De Guia

Artist: Takashi Murakami

Title: Flowers in Heaven

Year Created: 2010

About the work:

The artwork showcases cartoon-like flowers in different sizes with a cheerful expression along with its bright and energetic colors.

Why I chose it:

At first I saw his artworks printed in a luxury brand bag, and I at first I find it childish but then it left an impression on me and it had a joyful aura. I chose this painting by Takashi Murakami because it radiated a positive energy, the flowers were all in bloom with bright colors and joyful faces, just by looking at it I also find myself smiling.

Takashi Murakami, Kaikai Kiki | Flowers in Heaven (2010). Artsy. (n.d.). https://www.artsy.net/artwork/takashi-murakami-flowers-in-heaven-50

Submitted by: Eliana Rae O. De Guia

Artist: Claude Monet

Title: The Water Lily Pond

Year Created: 1899

About the work:

In the 1980’s Monet purchased a property in Giverny which had an amazing garden designed by the artist and its Water Lily Pond. He planted the water lilies for fun and never intended it to be the subject of his painting, but then as they grew he saw the beauty in them and it became his model.

Why I chose it:

Aside from how appealing it is, the calmness of the painting captured my eye. It speaks about finding peace in the simplest ways and slowing down and being still like the water in the pond. Sometimes we forget to take a pause from all the happenings in our life and we might feel overwhelmed, this painting serves a reminder that sometimes we need to slow down and take things in. It also reminds me that finding peace doesn’t have to be grand, and most of the time it is the beauty that what we observe in our everyday lives.

The Water Lily Pond, 1899 by Claude Monet. (n.d.). Claude Monet. https://www.claude-monet.com/the-water-lily-pond.jsp

Submitted by: Eliana Rae O. De Guia

Artist: Fernando Amorsolo

Title: Hopes in the Ruins of Manila

Year Created: 1945

About the work:

Fernando Amorsolo represented World War II as he witnessed it. Where there were over 10,000 civilians who died and the city was left in ruins.

Why I chose it:

The painting is showing a mother feeding her child and at her back there were civilians who died during the war. This painting speaks about a mother who is very selfless and is willing to do anything for her child. Amidst the ruins, she prioritized the needs of her child, and I think this goes to all the mothers. Even though how much life can get tough, a mother does everything she can to put the needs of her child first.

01 Work, The Art of War, Fernando Cueto Amorsolo’s Hope in the Ruins of Manila, with footnotes. (2023, November 24). Zaidan Gallery. https://zaidan.blog/2023/11/24/01-work-the-art-of-war-fernando-cueto-amorsolos-hope-in-the-ruins-of-manila-with-footnotes/

Submitted by: Eliana Rae O. De Guia

Artist: Fernando Amorsolo

Title: Planting Rice

Year Created: 1921

About the work:

It is an oil painting that is set in a wet rice field where there are groups of Filipino people planting rice.

Why I chose it:

In the painting, there are different people working together to plant rice. I chose this work because it speaks about the bayanihan culture of us Filipino’s. I think this trait is very observable among us because we have a strong sense of community which allows us to be resilient in difficult times. One common example is when it floods in our country, many of us extend help to those who are affected. I think this is one of our good characteristics as a Filipino, we help one another to face challenges, stand up, and begin again.

CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art | CCP Encylopedia of Philippine Art. (n.d.). CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art. https://epa.culturalcenter.gov.ph/3/82/2272/

Submitted by: Eliana Rae O. De Guia

Artist: Vicente Manansala

Title: Market Vendors

Year Created: 1949

About the work:

It is an oil painting which uses cubism style to show the Filipino culture and tradition through local market vendors around the place selling different items.

Why I chose it:

Growing up I would go with my grandmother to shop at our local market, and I would watch her buy fresh fruits and vegetables, and there are these people who calls her “suki”. This painting does not only show our culture as Filipino’s but at the same time it is a space where people connect and share stories with one another. In order to provide for their families, each vendor in the marketplace spends long hours of work whether it rains or shines.

Market Vendors, 1949 - Vicente Manansala - WikiArt.org. (n.d.). www.wikiart.org. https://www.wikiart.org/en/vicente-manansala/market-vendors-1949

Submitted by: Eliana Rae O. De Guia

Manuel Baldemor’s Nipa Hut (1980) is an oil-on-canvas painting that portrays the traditional Filipino dwelling known as the bahay kubo. Executed in his distinctive folk-modernist style, the work reduces forms into simplified geometric patterns and emphasizes vibrant cultural imagery. The nipa hut, often associated with rural life, community, and simplicity, serves as a symbol of Filipino identity and heritage. Baldemor’s treatment of the subject reflects both nostalgia for traditional ways of living and a celebration of national culture.

Why I chose this:

A Nipa Hut is an iconic Filipino trademark, once a common home for Filipino families. Although we rarely see it today, those living near the ocean or in rural farmlands still keep this tradition alive. The painting captures the essence of home and evokes nostalgia, reminding me of the warmth of a bahay-kubo where families found shelter and togetherness. As someone who gravitates toward darker artworks, this piece softens something in me, highlighting a cultural truth: that Filipinos have one ultimate priority in life — to provide for their families and give them the love and completeness they deserve. Baldemor’s stylization also resonates with my artistic style, especially in the way he painted the scenery behind the family. The soft, muted tones glide gently as if following the brush’s instinct to blend colors.

Reference:

Baldemor, M. (1980). Nipa Hut. Philippines: Private Collection.

(AI tools such as ChatGPT were used for research assistance and grammar refinement.)

Submitted by: Bianca Areni T. Naranja

Sabel is Benedicto’s iconic muse, inspired by a real woman he once saw scavenging in Manila. Wrapped in scraps of cloth, she became a recurring figure in his works, symbolizing resilience, struggle, and dignity amid poverty. Sabel reflects both social commentary and personal interpretation, cementing BenCab as a master of Philippine contemporary art. The 2014 portrayal presents Sabel enveloped in flowing cloth against a deep red backdrop, marrying vibrant visual drama with the enduring symbolism of human dignity amid hardship

Why I chose this:

Seeing Sabel fully clothed and tangled in fabric gives the impression that she is embodying both despair and resilience. She is a picture of beauty captured by a remarkable artist, and she connects with my own way of using the human figure as a vessel for larger social issues. As a fan of political caricatures that rely heavily on symbols, this artwork leaves me speechless. The subject resonates with me politically and artistically, reflecting my own goals of expressionism and how art can speak about society beyond what is visibly shown.

Reference:

Cabrera, B. (2014). Sabel. Private Collection. 

(AI tools such as ChatGPT were used for research assistance and grammar refinement.)

Submitted by: Bianca Areni T. Naranja

This abstract expressionist painting is a key work in Philippine modernism. Using bold brushstrokes, vibrant colors, and textured surfaces, Joya conveys rhythm and motion. The work reflects post-war dynamism and the Philippines’ growing engagement with global art movements, while still grounded in local sensibilities.

Why I chose this:

I interpret abstraction primarily through color. To me, darker tones often suggest more positive emotions from the artist, while brighter tones reflect a heavier state of mind. In this work, the vivid use of yellow gives me the impression that Joya painted with a sense of happiness and eagerness, yet the underlying chaos of the composition speaks to me differently. It reveals how some artists use abstraction as an outlet for struggles with identity and self-expression. I also admire how Joya’s effort to situate Philippine art in a global conversation while maintaining its individuality shows courage and trust in the cultural value of Filipino creativity.

Reference:

Joya, J. (1958). Granadean Arabesque. National Museum of Fine Arts, Manila.

(AI tools such as ChatGPT were used for research assistance and grammar refinement.)

Submitted by: Bianca Areni T. Naranja

Part of Goya’s “Black Paintings,” this haunting image shows the mythological titan Saturn consuming one of his children. Painted directly onto the walls of his home, it reflects Goya’s disillusionment, fear, and obsession with mortality. Its raw, grotesque depiction makes it a landmark of psychological horror in art history.

Why I chose this:

What I see in this work is both horror and vulnerability. Goya’s directness in showing human darkness relates to my own artistic drive because it stirs my curiosity and pushes me to search for deeper meaning. The image is dark and unsettling, yet that is what makes it so powerful. Saturn’s act can be interpreted purely as mythological, but also symbolically, as a reflection of political and social cycles of violence where the powerful consume those beneath them. This duality makes the painting more than its materials — it becomes an inquiry into the human condition. Choosing this piece gives me the chance to probe further into how art embodies fear, power, and truth.

Reference:

Goya, F. (1819–1823). Saturn Devouring His Son. Museo del Prado, Madrid, Spain.

 (AI tools such as ChatGPT were used for research assistance and grammar refinement.)

Submitted by: Bianca Areni T. Naranja

A surrealist painting portraying a man in a suit and bowler hat with his face obscured by a hovering green apple. The work questions identity, perception, and the unseen aspects of humanity. It plays with the balance between visible reality and hidden truth, making it one of Magritte’s most famous and enigmatic pieces.

Why I chose this:

This painting connects strongly with my ideas of identity, mystery, and self-expression. The hidden face suggests the existence of a person whose identity remains concealed, turning the figure into a riddle. It represents the idea of not being fully seen or understood, like someone who cannot be read openly. I find the work both playful and unsettling, as it balances humor with an air of secrecy. Magritte’s theme that “what is visible may not be the truth” resonates with me deeply. To me, it is a reminder that appearances often conceal reality, and that people only show the parts of themselves they want others to see.

Reference:

Magritte, R. (1964). The Son of Man. Private Collection.

(AI tools such as ChatGPT were used for research assistance and grammar refinement.)

Submitted by: Bianca Areni T. Naranja

This self-portrait depicts Courbet with wide eyes and clenched hair, radiating raw intensity and existential anxiety. Painted in his youth, it breaks from academic tradition by emphasizing emotion over idealization. The work has been interpreted as Courbet’s declaration of artistic defiance and his deeply personal vision.

Why I chose this:

The moment I saw Courbet’s raw self-portrait, his wide-eyed expression immediately stirred a sense of frantic energy in me. It radiates raw passion and vulnerability, as he reveals himself with a startling honesty. The extreme gesture — hands gripping his hair and leaning forward — embodies what it means to pour oneself completely into art. This is more than just a likeness; it is Courbet allowing us to see his inner turmoil behind the canvas. When I compare this to the calmer works I chose, the contrast reveals the darkness I also acknowledge in myself and the wide range of artistic expression that speaks to me.

Reference:

Courbet, G. (1844–1845). The Desperate Man. Private Collection.

(AI tools such as ChatGPT were used for research assistance and grammar refinement.)

Submitted by: Bianca Areni T. Naranja

Reference: Silverlens Galleries. (n.d.). Pow Martinez.

https://www.silverlensgalleries.com/artists/pow-martinez

Title: Lingayen Beach

Year Created: 1971

About this work:

An oil-on-canvas piece of art. Many of Ibarra's artworks involved trees, bushes, lotuses, flowers, and multicolored landscape. Lingayen Beach depicts a field of colorful flowers next to a beach with huts for people to relax at.

Why I chose it:

The contrast of it being titled Lingayen Beach with barely any beach is fun. The only reason you could call this a beach is because of the water and huts that take up less than 10% of the artwork. The focus is mainly on the flowers, showcasing the beauty of not the beach, but the flowers that come before it.

Reference:

Lingayen Beach by Ibarra de la Rosa on artnet. (n.d.). https://www.artnet.com/artists/ibarra-de-la-rosa/lingayen-beach-QDRT9JOktVFKA6xcuvKRxA2

About the Work:
Looking at Borlongan’s painting, I’m drawn into a busy, colorful scene full of people laughing, talking, and moving around. Yet, even in all that energy, I feel like an outsider. The figures seem alive and joyful, but there’s a quiet space between them that I can relate to. I notice small details—the way someone leans, gestures, or interacts—and it makes me reflect on how I often watch life unfold rather than fully participate in it. There’s a strange beauty in being on the edge, observing the rhythm of life without needing to join it.

Why I Chose It:
I chose this painting because it speaks to how I experience the world. Happiness is present everywhere, even if I feel it differently or quietly. Watching the scene makes me reflective, reminding me that being alone doesn’t mean missing out. There’s value in noticing, in feeling the world in my own way. Borlongan’s work captures that subtle balance between connection and distance, showing that even a lone observer can find meaning in life’s vibrant moments.

Reference:

Pinto Art Museum. (n.d.). Elmer Borlongan. Pinto Art Museum. Retrieved September 6, 2025, from https://pintoart.org/elmer-borlongan/

used grammarly for grammar checking

Submitted by:

Garcia, Althea Nicole F.

About the work:
This sculpture depicts a reclining figure merging with a horn of plenty, embodying both strength and vulnerability. Its form balances beauty with a subtle sense of fragility, evoking reflection on the coexistence of abundance and impermanence. The work feels intimate, almost like a quiet meditation on human existence.

Why I chose this:
I chose this piece because it captures the delicate balance of life—the interplay of joy, abundance, and vulnerability. It makes me reflect on my own experiences, reminding me that moments of solitude and introspection are not signs of weakness but opportunities to understand myself better. The sculpture inspires me to embrace my vulnerabilities, to see beauty in fragility, and to appreciate the transient yet meaningful moments that shape our lives.

Reference:

Arellano, A. (1987). Myths of Creation and Destruction I [Sculpture]. Agnes Arellano. http://www.agnesarellano.com/works/myths-of-creation-and-destruction-1/

used grammarly for grammar checking

Submitted By:

Garcia, Althea Nicole F.

About the work:
Flowing lines and colors sweep across the canvas in a rhythm that feels alive yet introspective. The abstract composition evokes thought, memory, and quiet emotion, inviting viewers to explore their own reflections. There is a subtle harmony and balance that suggests a deep inner world beneath the surface.

Why I chose this:
I chose this artwork because it resonates with my own inner thoughts and reflections. Its abstract beauty reminds me that not all meaning needs to be explicit; life’s subtle patterns and quiet emotions can be just as significant. The painting encourages me to pause, reflect, and find calm amidst the chaos of life. It inspires me to embrace introspection as a way to understand myself better and appreciate the quiet, often overlooked moments that shape who I am.

Reference:

National Commission for Culture and the Arts. (n.d.). Order of National Artists: Jose T. Joya. from https://ncca.gov.ph/about-culture-and-arts/culture-profile/national-artists-of-the-philippines/jose-joya/

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Submitted By:

Garcia, Althea Nicole F.

About the work:
The painting depicts Saturn in a moment of intense, almost desperate action, consuming his child. The dark, dramatic imagery conveys themes of mortality, fear, and the inescapable passage of time. Its unsettling tone evokes strong reflection on the harsher truths of existence.

Why I chose this:
I chose this painting because it challenges me to confront difficult aspects of life, including fear, mortality, and loss. It reminds me that acknowledging life’s darker realities allows for greater awareness and appreciation of the present. The intensity of the work encourages me to value relationships, moments, and experiences, understanding that even the most difficult emotions contribute to personal growth and empathy.

Reference:

Times of India. (2020, August 13). Saturn Devouring His Son: Everything you should know about the painting. The Times of India. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/de-stress/saturn-devouring-his-son-everything-you-should-know-about-the-painting/articleshow/77502946.cms

used grammarly for grammar

Submitted By:

Garcia, Althea Nicole F.

About the work:
A mother is shown cradling her lifeless child, expressing grief, love, and human vulnerability. The emotion in the work is raw yet deeply human, capturing universal feelings of loss and sorrow with quiet intensity.

Why I chose this:
I chose this piece because it reflects the depth of human emotion and the power of love even in moments of profound grief. It reminds me to value relationships and connections while embracing the inevitability of loss as part of life. The work inspires empathy and reflection, showing that grief can coexist with love and that both are essential to understanding the human experience. It encourages me to be more compassionate and present with the people I care about.

Reference:

Kollwitz, K. (1903). Woman with Dead Child [Etching]. Käthe Kollwitz Museum Köln. https://www.kollwitz.de/en/woman-with-dead-child-kn-81

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Submitted by:

Garcia, Althea Nicole F.

Title: Death and Life

Year Created: 1910–1915

About the work:

This painting portrays life and death existing together, with lively, colorful figures of the living set against the shadowy presence of death. The contrast captures the fleeting and fragile nature of existence, offering a contemplative yet poignant view of human life. The work conveys both the vibrancy of life and the inevitability of mortality.

Why I chose this:

I chose this artwork because it reminds me to value every moment and the people who matter most in my life. It makes me reflect on how fleeting life is and that each experience, relationship, and memory holds significance. The painting encourages me to embrace life fully, to find meaning in both happiness and sorrow, and to recognize that even the awareness of mortality can make our moments richer and more beautiful.

Reference:

Most Famous Paintings. (n.d.). Death and Life. https://en.most-famous-paintings.com/MostFamousPaintings.nsf/A?Open&A=6E3TF6

used grammarly for grammar

Submitted by:

Garcia, Althea Nicole F.

Title: Gahasa sa Soberanya

Year Created: 2013

About the work:US Bases Gahasa sa Soberanya (2013) depicts soldiers, tanks and a war ship, all guns pointed at a brown-skinned naked woman who is being groped by the hands of an unseen white attacker. It is a strong patriotic work criticizing the presence of American military bases in the Philippines. Through the artwork, Doloricon conveys the abuse and exploitation caused by foreign military presence, which he sees as a violation of Philippine sovereignty and dignity.

Why I chose the artwork: I chose this artwork because I appreciate how Doloricon exposes the brutal exploitation of Filipinos by American colonizers, highlighting the helplessness of the people, especially women, and reminding us not to forget these dark chapters of our history.

References: Recinto, M. (2021, July 20). Neil Doloricon, whose art championed the underdog in Filipino society, 1957–2021. ArtReview. https://artreview.com/neil-doloricon-whose-art-championed-the-underdog-in-filipino-society-1957-2021/

Submitted by: Samonte, Kate

Title: My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (album cover)

Year Created: 2010

The My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy album cover, created by George Condo in 2010, is a striking example of contemporary surrealism. The artwork features a grotesque, cartoonish figure straddling a naked female form, rendered in Condo’s chaotic, exaggerated style. Its bold and provocative imagery mirrors the themes of Kanye West’s album—fame, excess, vulnerability, and the darker sides of human desire. The surrealism challenges the viewer to confront uncomfortable truths while reflecting the complexity of Kanye’s persona during this period. This cover blurs the lines between music and visual art, transforming an album into a multidimensional artistic experience.

I chose this artwork because it pushes boundaries both visually and conceptually, making the viewer stop and think. I appreciate how Condo’s surrealist style, combined with Kanye’s thematic vision, captures the contradictions of human nature—chaos, beauty, darkness, and desire—all in a single image. The artwork exemplifies how art can provoke thought, elicit strong emotional responses, and elevate music into a larger cultural conversation. It reminds us that album covers can be more than decorative—they can be powerful statements in their own right.

Condo, G. (2010). My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy [Album cover]. Roc-A-Fella Records

Submitted by: Samonte, Kate

Title: To Pimp a Butterfly (Album Cover)

Year Created: 2015

The album cover for To Pimp a Butterfly depicts a group of African Americans, including men, women, and children, posing in front of the White House. Some hold cash, champagne bottles, or guns, while one man lies on the lawn as if dead. This stark imagery reflects the themes of Kendrick Lamar’s album: systemic racism, inequality, black empowerment, and social critique. The cover juxtaposes triumph and tragedy, critique and celebration, highlighting both the oppression African Americans have faced and their resilience in the face of it. The photograph transforms a historical symbol of power—the White House—into a canvas for commentary on contemporary racial and social issues.

I chose this artwork because it is bold, provocative, and socially conscious. I appreciate how the image conveys complex themes of oppression, resilience, and community in a single frame, mirroring the album’s exploration of identity and systemic injustice. The cover challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths while also celebrating black culture and solidarity. It demonstrates how visual art can be used to amplify the messages of music, creating a powerful dialogue about society and history.

Paul, A. (2020, May 8). To Pimp A Butterfly album art—A semiotic analysis. Medium. https://medium.com/@abhishekpaul90/to-pimp-a-butterfly-album-art-a-semiotic-analysis-22305826dbec

Submitted by: Samonte, Kate

Title: Self Care (Album Cover)

Year Created: 2018

The album cover for Mac Miller’s Self Care (2018) was photographed by Christian Weber and is rich with symbolic and introspective meaning. Miller is depicted sitting in a pink linen suit, barefoot inside a box that resembles a coffin, half slumped and half emerging, suggesting the tension between life and death. The cover references several of Miller’s previous works: the central vertical stripe echoes Blue Slide Park, the facial expression recalls Watching Movies with the Sound Off, the white background mirrors GO:OD AM, and the suit references The Divine Feminine. His bare feet symbolize mortality and vulnerability, while the box and soil imagery connect to themes explored in the “Self Care” music video. The addition of a photoshopped airplane window alludes to reaching career heights while feeling trapped, encapsulating his emotional and artistic evolution.

I chose this artwork because it is deeply introspective and layered with symbolism, reflecting both Mac Miller’s personal struggles and artistic growth. I appreciate how the cover conveys vulnerability, mortality, and transformation, showing that even in success, there can be introspection and uncertainty. The imagery encourages viewers to reflect on the complexity of life, fame, and self-discovery, making it more than just a visual— it’s a profound narrative about the human experience and the evolution of an artist.

Weber, C. (Photographer). (2018). Self Care [Album cover for Swimming by Mac Miller]. Warner Bros. Records. https://www.deezer.com/en/track/533802022

Submitted by: Samonte, Kate

Title: Munimuni (Album Cover)

Year Created: 2018

The album cover for Munimuni’s self-titled album features a painting by Martin Honasan from his series Bautismo. Honasan painted the piece while listening to the band’s music, even before meeting them, allowing the emotions and themes of the album to directly influence his artistic choices. The painting captures a contemplative and introspective mood, reflecting the poetic and soulful nature of Munimuni’s music. Its textured brushwork and subtle color palette convey both vulnerability and depth, creating a visual experience that complements the lyrical and musical content of the album.

I chose this artwork because it beautifully demonstrates the connection between music and visual art. I appreciate how Honasan translated the feelings and atmosphere of Munimuni’s songs into a painting, capturing the emotion and introspection of their music. The cover exemplifies how art can evoke mood and meaning, enhancing the listener’s experience and allowing the music to be felt both visually and sonically.

Munimuni. (2019). Tahanan [Song]. On Kulayan Natin. Marilag Records and Productions. https://www.deezer.com/en/track/707737682

Submitted by: Samonte, Kate

Title: The Lovers

Year created: 1928

About the work:

A surrealist painting depicting a couple kissing, each with a white cloth wrapped around their head.

Why I chose it:

Love is filled with flaws; it is blind despite hearts being entwined. Such intimacy will never be able to touch a soul; one can ever truly know a person.  A romantic illustration of affection shrouded with mystery, provoking my thoughts on what it really means. The white cloth covering the couple’s heads signifies their union; a barrier concealing their true nature of affection; the uncertainties of what love has to offer, or how suffocating it is to love. Its meaning can also go beyond love, rather illustrating our inherent inability to see the naked truth, remaining blinded by desires.  I love how this painting gives a clear, straightforward image, but its mystery makes you ponder about it endlessly.

Reference: Martet, C. (2023, August 22). Canvassing the masterpiece: Magritte’s “The Lovers“. Rise Art. https://www.riseart.com/article/2709/canvassing-the-masterpiece-magritte-s-the-

Photographer: Kimberly dela Cruz

Year: 2019

The album cover for Kolateral by Filipino hip-hop collective Sandata features a mural painted by Archie Oclos, photographed by Kimberly dela Cruz. The mural is located in the San Roque community in Quezon City and depicts a powerful image of a man with a blindfold, symbolizing the victims of the Philippine drug war. The artwork is not just a static image; it exists within the community it represents, adding layers of meaning and context to the album's themes of social justice and resistance. The choice to photograph the mural in its real-world setting emphasizes the connection between art and activism, making the cover a poignant statement on the issues addressed in the album.

I chose this artwork because it powerfully merges visual art with social commentary, while also reflecting the depth of Sandata’s music. I enjoy this album because it goes beyond the usual themes in hip-hop—money, sex, and fame—and instead tackles meaningful societal issues with thoughtfulness and insight. The mural’s presence in the San Roque community transforms it from a mere album cover into a living piece of activism, resonating with the themes of the album. It exemplifies how art can be a tool for advocacy, bringing attention to pressing societal issues while showcasing the depth and substance that hip-hop can achieve.

Ichimura, A. (2019, July 23). Kolateral is an unfiltered rap chronicle of the drug war. Esquire Philippines. https://www.esquiremag.ph/culture/music/kolateral-is-an-unfiltered-rap-chronicle-of-the-drug-war-a1926-20190723-lfrm

Submitted by: Samonte, Kate

Title: The Garden of Earthly Delights Triptych

Year Created: 1490-1510

About the work: This painting is a triptych or three connected panels. The left panels depict the Paradise/Eden, the center shows the garden of earthly delights or simply our sins, and the right panel depicts hell.

Why I Chose it: (used Chatgpt for grammar checking and paraphrasing) First of all, this painting easily captures everyone’s attention because of its surreal landscape and vibrant figures. What’s even more interesting is that the deeper you dive into the piece, the more you gradually uncover the hidden darkness beyond its beauty. I am drawn to this painting’s duality, its explicit yet realistic themes, and the way it sums up humanity, embracing both heaven and hell, in such a creative manner. I admire Bosch’s way of presenting his ideas, how he allowed himself to explore controversial yet realistic themes, and his remarkable skill in producing such a masterpiece. I have always been a fan of admiring art with this perspective, valuing not just the craft itself but also the depth of meaning behind it. I believe there is no more magical experience than understanding the significance of a painting beyond its surface image.

Reference:

Museo Nacional del Prado. (n.d.). The Garden of Earthly Delights Triptych. Retrieved September 6, 2025, from Museo Nacional del Prado website: https://www.museodelprado.es/en/the‐collection/art-work/the-garden-of-earthly-delights-triptych/02388242-6d6a-4e9e-a992-e1311eab3609

SUBMITTED BY:

Santillan, Andrea Shane O.

Title: Dante and Virgil in Hell

Year Created: 1850

About the work: This painting was based on the Divine Comedy written by Dante Alighieri, specifically the eighth circle of hell.

Why I Chose This: (used Chatgpt for grammar checking and paraphrasing) In this painting, Bouguereau brought a part of Dante's poem to life. Personally, I have recently begun to appreciate literary works and artworks with similar themes. Depictions of religious subjects that include their darker sides always make me feel very invested. Now, after becoming familiar with The Divine Comedy through various adaptations, this painting has allowed me to form an even clearer picture of how the poem unfolds. I love how Bouguereau made the characters so expressive, capturing the real intensity of the scene, the overall tone of the painting, and the tension drawn from the original text.

Reference:

Musée d’Orsay. (n.d.). Dante et Virgile. Retrieved September 6, 2025, from Musée d’Orsay website: https://www.musee-orsay.fr/en/artworks/dante-et-virgile-153692

SUBMITTED BY:

Santillan, Andrea Shane O.

Title: The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp

Year Created: 1632

About the work: Dr. Nicolaes Tulp performed an anatomy lesson in front of the seven members of Guild of Surgeons using a common criminal's body as a cadaver.

Why I chose this:

When I first caught a glimpse of this painting, it immediately reminded me of my current program. A month ago, I learned from the history of Medical Technology that they weren't allowed for human dissections before and was only diagnosing diseases through physical appearance and urine. Other than that, I've learned that when they were finally allowed to perform dissections, it was so popular that it became a public event with admission fees that liked by people such as Rembrandt.

Reference:

Osgerby, W. (n.d.). Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp. In Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved September 6, 2025, from Encyclopædia Britannica website: https://www.britannica.com/topic/The-Anatomy-Lesson-of-Dr-Nicolaes-Tulp

SUBMITTED BY:

Santillan, Andrea Shane O.

Title: Shelter (Kubli)

Year Created: 1993

About the work: This painting depicts an exhausted child asleep finding shelter on a bare floor seemingly in a difficult situation in life at the moment.

Why I chose this: I feel a huge similar sentiment to people who constantly longs for security and comforter. Metaphorically, I know the feeling of always looking for a place to settle down, somewhere comfortable like a shelter. This artwork not just showed the common situation of people who experience difficulty in life, especially children who live on the side of the road, but also speaks to my own experiences for sharing the same emotional baggage.

Reference:

Pintô Art Museum. (n.d.). Shelter (Kubli). Retrieved September 6, 2025, from Pinto Art Museum website: https://pintoart.org/shelter

SUBMITTED BY:

Santillan, Andrea Shane O.

Title: Kubli (Shelter)

Year Created: 1993

About the work: This painting depicts an exhausted child asleep finding shelter on a bare floor seemingly in a difficult situation in life at the moment.

Why I chose this: I feel a huge similar sentiment to people who constantly longs for security and comforter. Metaphorically, I know the feeling of always looking for a place to settle down, somewhere comfortable like a shelter. This artwork not just showed the common situation of people who experience difficulty in life, especially children who live on the side of the road, but also speaks to my own experiences for sharing the same emotional baggage.

Reference:

Pintô Art Museum. (n.d.). Shelter (Kubli). Retrieved September 6, 2025, from Pinto Art Museum website: https://pintoart.org/shelter

SUBMITTED BY:

Santillan, Andrea Shane O.

Title: La Venganza de la Madre

Year Created: 1894

About the work: This sculpture presents how a mother dog tried to rescue her pup from the bite of a crocodile which is a symbolic representation of Filipino patriots (mother dog) saving defenseless countrymen (puppy) from the Spanish power (crocodile).

Why I Chose This: This sculpture appeared to me because of its intense presentation of an action. The emotion and the intensity of the image is clearly shown. And as you delve deeper into the hidden meaning behind, you'll understand the root of the tension and expressive emotions the sculpture effectively displayed.

Reference:

National Museum of the Philippines. (n.d.). Sculptures. Retrieved September 6, 2025, from National Museum of the Philippines website: https://www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/our-collections/fine-arts/sculptures/

SUBMITTED BY:

Santillan, Andrea Shane O.

Title: The Wounded Angel

Year created: 1903

About the work:

Two young boys carrying a blindfolded angel on a stretcher, one of which is directly glaring to the viewer. The angel is a little girl with wounded wings, visibly in pain as she tilts her gaze down, white flowers clutched in her hand. Though Simberg refused to elaborate its meaning, the painting is supposedly influenced by his own experience of recovering from a long illness.

Why I chose it:

The little boy’s direct gaze along with the sullen atmosphere gives me a certain feeling of discomfort. A haunting, confrontational stare, seemingly making me guilty, like I had done an unforgivable act to the angel they are carrying. His gaze contains a reminder to be mindful of our actions to other people as we might unintentionally deeply hurt someone with pure intentions, akin to the angel. Contrarily to the aforementioned, the boys are the guilty, ‘evil’ ones trying to take the angel away, his intense stare signaling us to stay quiet.  Similarly to prevalent issues in society, particularly the social hierarchy. The crippled angel being those of the powerless accused innocent who are forced to stay silent, and the little boys representing those who are in power that easily gets to control the system into their favor.

Reference: The Wounded Angel - Hugo Simberg - Google Arts & Culture. (n.d.). Google Arts & Culture. https://artsandculture.google.com/asset/the-wounded-angel/WAHm6ruBFNfnLw?hl=en

Title: La Laguna Estigia

Year Created: 1887

About the work: This painting depicts a darker rendition of the poem Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri in the river of Styx, the setting of the last circle in hell.

Why I Chose This: Anything about the Divine Comedy has always struck an interest in me. This painting caught my attention for reliving familiar parts in the poem with even more detail and a perfect subject for visualization. This painting has made me appreciate the poem more.

Reference:

Phillife. (n.d.). The most iconic paintings of the Philippines. Retrieved September 6, 2025, from Phillife website: https://www.phillife.co/paintings-philippines/

SUBMITTED BY:

Santillan, Andrea Shane O.

Artist: Gian Lorenzo Bernini

Year: 1621–22

Brief description:

It is a large baroque marble sculpture that depicts a woman (Proserpina) abducted by a man (Pluto), who is seizing her to be taken to the underworld. The dog (Cerberus) symbolizes the border of the underworld and the living. It is based on the Latin myth of Proserpina, a Greek Goddess and daughter to Jupiter and Ceres, and why seasons change (in harvest)

Why I chose this:

The myth of Proserpina summarized is a mother abandoning her duties to save her daughter only for her husband to negotiate with her abductor as if she is an object to be fought for. The change in seasons because of Ceres’ mood reflects how distraught she is that she cannot be with her daughter because her husband, Jupiter, agreed to let her abductor, Pluto, have her for half a year while she gets the other half. The statue, like how the men in the myth treat her, captures how women, human or goddess, are treated as objects by men—even if that man is your own father. It also captures how powerful a woman’s emotions could be (via Ceres’ power; she is the Roman goddess of Harvest). The sculpture itself is mesmerising and beautiful down to its smallest details. The artist 

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Rape_of_Proserpina

Submitted by: Nikaela Aviles

Artist: Unknown

Year: 2nd century BC

Brief description:

Statue of the Greek goddess Aphrodite that was only intended to be viewed from the front (the back is less refined compared to the front)

Why I chose this:

This artwork has always fascinated me because of its beauty, and Aphrodite being the goddess of love and beauty, we can see how people during that period of time interpret beauty and what is beauty to them

References:

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venus_de_Milo 

• Louvre, The Masterpieces

Submitted by: Nikaela Aviles

Artist: commissioned by Jurys Hotel Group; designed by Jeanne Rynhart

Year: 1988

Brief description:

A statue based on a song of a fictional tale of a fishwife. She (Molly) piled her trade in Dublin. She is depicted to be a seller in the morning and a prostitute at night

Why I chose this:

Compared to the rest of the statue, her chest area is still shiny-looking due to visitors over the time using them as an object of amusement by placing their hands on that area when posing for pictures. This statue is a prime example of the phrase, “to be a woman is to perform”

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Molly_Malone

Submitted by: Nikaela Aviles

Artist: Juan Luna

Year: 1884

Brief description:

Depicts two women, representing Spain (woman in red)  and the Philippines (woman in blue), going up the steps of a staircase as the woman in red leads the woman in blue, representing Spain leading the Philippines towards progress and development

Why I chose this:

Simply because this somehow reflects Juan Luna’s views (and the privileged’s views) of their fellow, less fortunate Filipinos. Juan was depicting Spain’s silent and guiding hand to the Philippines when it came to progress and development contrasts the reality of the situation, showing the ignorance of those privileged enough to be sat next to Spaniards and walk among them

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Espa%C3%B1a_y_Filipinas

Submitted by: Nikaela Aviles

Artist: Ben Cabrera

Year: 2003

Brief description:

Displayed in Hong Kong Heritage Museum from December 2003 to March 2004, this was Bencab’s earlier paintings when playing with light and contrast while using expressive and precise visual language when completing the painting

Why I chose this:

The painting is unique and interesting because of how Bencab expresses the women's dresses and how it seems to mirror the separate women’s personalities 

References:

• https://www.spot.ph/arts-culture/art-exhibits/68574/leon-gallery-kingly-treasures-auction-a00171-20161128

• https://www.scribd.com/document/507435110/FilipinoArtist#:~:text=investigation%20of%20shape%20and%20structure,humanity%20while%20blue%20represent%20life

Submitted by: Nikaela Aviles

Artist: Jose Rizal

Year: Unknown

Brief description:

Was originally given as a gift for Doña Leonor Valenzuela but was later passed to Doña Margarita Valenzuela

Why I chose this:

Taking into account that Doña Leonor was Jose Rizal's greatest love and the girl he's been writing love letters for even during his time in Madrid, the painting is a cute token of their love even if they did not end up together; it shows that love lives in different ways and that love creates beauty

References:

https://www.scribd.com/document/483732622/365522191-Jose-Rizal-Paintings

Submitted by: Nikaela Aviles

Title: Rose

Year created: 1979

About the work:

A naked portrait of Freud’s, at the time, teenage daughter, Rose. It took him several night sessions painting her. When the portrait was finished, it shocked her how much it focused on her genitals.

Why I chose it:

I chose this painting due to its disturbing backstory. At a glance, from a casual viewer, it seems like a normal naked portrait of a woman.  Yet being aware of the imbalance of their father-daughter relationship, and how Freud is as a person, it delivered the unsettling feeling. This perspective of mine did not come from a sexualizing eye; it’s in the way he portrayed his daughter from his point of view. Making her look obedient, oddly emphasizing on her genitals which also shocked Rose. It is just so disturbing that I began to question myself: what are the boundaries when it comes to art?

Reference: Adams, T. (2025, March 6). ‘I don’t want to cancel him’: Rose Boyt on confronting the gaze of her father, Lucian Freud. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/culture/article/2024/may/12/rose-boyt-naked-portrait-lucian-freud-daughter-interview

Barber, L. (2024b, June 6). The ordeal of sitting for my father Lucian Freud. The Spectator. https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/the-ordeal-of-sitting-for-my-father-lucian-freud/

Title: Fisherman at Sunset

Year Created: 1955

About the work: "Fisherman at sunset", captures the unique style in oil painting, and settles below warm, glowing light. It gives a beautiful, tranquil, and nostalgic feels, showing the rural side of the life of Filipinos. Amorsolo combined soft brushstrokes, creating the whole view of the painting.

Why I chose it:

I chose this art simply because it showcases the Filipinos' culture and their determination to work. It shows how our manggagawang Pilipino is the heart of our economy, and the fact that the painting itself is named 'Fisherman at Sunset," shows literally how fishermen works from when the sun rises, until the sun sets, and some even at night. I also felt that the painting, with its colors, evoke a glimmer of hope, as fishing is one of the livelihoods that kept Filipino families alive.

Reference: Fernando Amorsolo artworks. Salcedo Auctions. (2022, August 22). https://blog.salcedoauctions.com/fernando-amorsolo-artworks/

Submitted by: Gabat, Frances Darnelle P.

Title: Sentinel of Freedom

Year Created: 2004

About this work:

The Sentinel of Freedom, is a monument to Lapulapu, the chief of Mactan Island. Though there are two prominent Lapulapu statues, one in Mactan to commemorate his victory at the Battle of Mactan, the monument in the image is the Sentinel of Freedom, a gift from Korea that was recently restored and relocated to Maria Orosa Street in Rizal Park. It is a 12.19 meter statue, including its 3.05 meter pedestal.

Why I chose it:

A tribute to our country's first national hero, Lapulapu, of course I had to pick it. After winning the Battle of Mactan which resulted in Ferdinand Magellan's death, he fought for his freedom after they threatened to take it away. Even more interesting is that the Sentinel of Freedom is 400 meters away from a statue of Jose Rizal, symbolizing their almost 400 year distance in history.

Reference:

Lapu-Lapu stirs row at Luneta. (2004, February 8). Philstar.com. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2004/02/08/238076/lapu-lapu-stirs-row-luneta

National Historical Commission of the Phillippines. (2025, May 18). https://nhcp.gov.ph/news_and_updates/national-museum-unveils-marker-at-sentinel-of-freedom-monument-for-international-museum-day-2025/#:~:text=The%20Sentinel%20of%20Freedom%20Monument,Jose%20Rizal.

Reference: Placino, M. P. O. C., & Legaspi-Ramirez, M. E. (2020, November 18). Poleteismo. In Encyclopedia of Philippine Art (Digital Edition). Cultural Center of the Philippines. https://epa.culturalcenter.gov.ph/3/82/2273/

Title: La Barca de Aqueronte

Year Created: 1887

About this work:

La Barca de Aqueronteis is an oil on canvas painting, translating into "The Boat of Charon" or "Charon's Boat" in English. The painting is based on Hidalgo's read of Dante's Inferno while in Italy. It is based on his interpretation of damned souls journeying across River Acheron towards the gates of hell. One of the main focuses of the work, the boatman, is Charon from Greek mythology, the one responsible for transporting people across the rivers of Acheron and Styx.

Why I chose this work:

I like Greek mythology a lot, and I couldn't give up the chance to make a post about one made by a Filipino artist. The Greek underworld, Hades, has always been interesting in how it handled the way dead souls were transported to hell, and I feel as if this painting captures that perfectly.

Reference:

Clopez. (2021, June 17). ‘La Barca de Aqueronte’ by Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo, 1887. Lifestyle.INQ. https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/384424/la-barca-de-aqueronte-by-felix-resurreccion-hidalgo-1887/

La Barca de Aqueronte (The Boat of Charon) — Steemit. (n.d.). Steemit. https://steemit.com/art/@watersnake101/la-barca-de-aqueronte-the-boat-of-charon

Reference: Google Arts & Culture. (n.d.). Cutting Onions Always Makes Me Cry [Art object by Julie Lluch, 1988]. https://artsandculture.google.com/asset/cutting-onions-always-makes-me-cry-julie-lluch/egGJXTx6MNJsXw?hl=en

Reference: Art Institute of Chicago. (n.d.). Nighthawks [Painting by Edward Hopper, 1942]. Art Institute of Chicago. https://www.artic.edu/artworks/111628/nighthawks

Title: Spoliarium

Year Created: 1884

About this work:

Spoliarium is a large oil on canvas painting, taking Juan Luna around 8 months to complete it. It depicts dying gladiators in an arena being dragged away.

Why I chose this work:

While the Spoliarium is about gladiators dying and entertaining their Roman oppressors, I feel as if it also has somewhat of a double meaning. It could be interpreted as the suffering of the Filipino peoples under the Spanish rule, forced to go along with their whims as they were seen as inferior. With Juan Luna and Hidalgo both winning awards for their paintings, gold and silver respectively, in the same competition, Jose Rizal commenting on it being "fresh proof of racial equality". It is an interesting thought, for sure.

Reference:

Admin. (2023, October 16). SPOLIARIUM. Philippine Folklife Museum Foundation | San Francisco, Ca. https://philippinefolklifemuseum.org/portfolio-items/spoliarium/

Reference: Amos, J. (2023, June 1). Comedian by Maurizio Cattelan: controversial postmodern artwork. Art de Vivre. https://artdevivre.com/articles/comedian-by-maurizioi-cattelan-controversial-postmodern-artwork/

Reference: PabloPicasso.org. (n.d.). The Dream (Le Rêve), 1932 by Pablo Picasso. https://www.pablopicasso.org/the-dream.jsp

Reference: Silverlens Galleries. (n.d.). Pow Martinez.

https://www.silverlensgalleries.com/artists/pow-martinez

Title: Comfortably Numb

Year created: 2005

About the work:

A malnourished man curled up on the ground, his arms tightly holding on his knees, his face tucked in. The vibrant graffiti in the background contrasting his dull state.

Why I chose it:

During complicated times, things get overwhelmingly loud and hard to ignore. I chose this painting because of its loud message, even with the obvious silence the painting exudes. Unwanted thoughts seeping into the mind, making you want to shut down and shield yourself from those thoughts sinking into you further, looking for comfort with nothing but just yourself. That is what I immediately thought while looking at this painting. The fragile man, so thin that his bones are visible, is curled up on the ground—such miserable position in an uncomfortable environment. Despite the harsh conditions, he seeks comfort in his self. The graffiti art behind him, colorful and vibrant, contrasts his current discomfort. It reminds me that suffering is silent, often remaining unseen, as it gets overshadowed by the loudness and continuous flow of life—you just get used to it. In relation to its title ‘Comfortably Numb,’ the man has conditioned himself into living like that, living with what he has in the moment. What else can he do? He is weak, he doesn’t have a choice; but he still chose to face his struggles head on.

References: ArtMajeur. (2006, October 28). ArtMajeur, Art Gallery #1 online for 20 years. ArtMajeur Online Art Gallery. https://www.artmajeur.com/carlojuntado/en/artworks/1035401/comfortably-numb

Title: Crisis in Humanity

Year created: 2017

About the work:

A crowded black and white artwork filled with faces displaying diverse emotions, mostly of distress and desperation.

Why I chose it:

It is the perfect example of false hope, a disillusionment. Different faces together, cramped and trapped, their hands reaching out for something—or anything—that will pull them out of the darkness, no matter how unreachable it is. They reek of desperation to get out, and display fear of getting consumed by what seems to be a blackhole, something uncertain, but they keep getting pulled in the crisis. It shows the struggle of those marginalized, holding on to the false promises that those in power might one day lift them out of the slump. I chose this work because it shows the harsh reality of some people, especially here in the Philippines where poverty remains to be a pressing issue.

Reference: Benedicto Cabrera: Artist Profile | The Art Spore. (n.d.). The Art Spore. https://theartspore.com/featured-artists/benedicto-cabrera/

Title: Dirty White Trash (With Gulls)

Year Created: 1998

About the work:

As we can see, the artwork involves a pile of trash that creates a beautiful shadow, making 2 people sitting back to back, one holding a drink, and one holding a cigarette.

Why I chose it:

I like something rare and when I saw this like years ago in my feed, I just thought to myself I should include it here, because of how intricate and amazing this artwork was made. For me, it gives the viewers the free will to interpret whether the 2 people are being sentimental, sad, or celebrating. It's like you think that trash should be disposed already, but little did we know, aside from recycling it to use in our lives, it could also be recycled as a beautiful masterpiece.

Reference: Featured actions. Art Works for Change. (n.d.). https://www.artworksforchange.org/portfolio/tim-noble-and-sue-webster/

Submitted by: Gabat, Frances Darnelle P.

Title: A Lady in the Moonlight

Year created: Unknown

About the work:

A woman with soft features bathing under the moonlight, her gaze gentle yet distant, along with a tender expression on her face.

Why I chose it:

First of all, the woman is ethereal. The painting is still, quiet, yet it speaks directly to my heart. It perfectly captures the nights when you suddenly feel yearning for something or someone, a feeling that suddenly comes with no warning. Her gaze that is soft yet distant, looking into the unknown, shows that you’re yearning for something unattainable, or someone that cannot be reached, carrying with it the ache of uncertainty about what might happen if we dare to try. More so, it encapsulates the sudden bursts of melancholy, the unexplainable emptiness that floods the heart and mind. We are always longing, always yearning for what we wished we could’ve had, for the illusions of potential we still hold on to. How come wanting comes with that subtle ache, how the feeling persists even with uncertainties?

Reference: File:A lady in the moonlight Félix Resurrección Hidalgo.jpg - Wikimedia Commons. (n.d.). https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:A_lady_in_the_moonlight_F%C3%A9lix_Resurrecci%C3%B3n_Hidalgo.jpg

Title: Mga Damong Ligaw

Year Created: 2014

About the work:

"Mga Damong Ligaw" is a large scale installation art that uses found materials from rural areas. The animals weren't killed by the artist, but only gathered what they had left behind. Yet it reveals so much about the quiet carnage that unfolds every day, unnoticed by most. Oscar spent about 9 years to collecting the castoff horns.

Why I chose it:

I chose this art because as I researched about it, it represents the state of our nation which are still prevalent up until the present time, and these are corruption, violence, and poverty. The horns were symbolizing the oppressed that are most of the time muted by society, and I can say that it says so much about the country because the ones that are in power, or the ones that have money whom also stole from the “kaban ng bayan,” are the ones being favored and I can also say that the oppressed are being silenced because of money. So, corruption, violence, and poverty overlaps with this.

References: Santos, C. (n.d.). Supreme pick: Oca Villamiel’s “Mga Damong Ligaw.” Philstar.com. https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/supreme/2015/01/24/1416005/supreme-pick-oca-villamiels-mga-damong-ligaw

Title: Payatas 

Year Created: 2012

About the work:

The artwork used discarded dolls/ doll heads. It is a mixed-media installation art.

Its walls are filled with dolls that look like they’re smiling, but the bodies were smiling. Some have no arms, legs, hair, or eyes, and their faces look worn out and dirty, like they’ve been left in a dumpsite, which resembles to Payatas, a dumpsite.

Why I chose it:

I remembered the movie "Smaller and Smaller Circles" with this artwork. Young boys are being killed in Payatas and their innocence are being taken away. The dolls were a symbolism of the lost innocence of children, and the neglect of human suffering. I chose this installation art, as there are unseen and untold stories on each and every corner of our country and it is subtly represented by this art. At first glance you would only think it is a pile of dolls hanging, but there's a deep meaning created by the artist that unfolds the dark truth about children not literally being killed, but also their dreams in life.

Reference: Butuyan, J. R. (2019, August 5). Ideas as art. INQUIRER.net. https://opinion.inquirer.net/123061/ideas-as-art

Title: Jael and Sisera

Year Created: 1620

About the work:

This is a Baroque oil painting which is expressed in a religious genre. As seen in the painting, the woman, Jael, is holding a huge nail and hammer on the temple of the man, Sisera.

Why I chose it:

I like how this painting by Artemisia speaks for women empowerment, on my end at least, maybe because we talked about this in our Religion classes when I was in high-school where Sisera, a Canaanite general was killed by a woman, Jael, because the army of Sisera has been oppressing the Israelites. Sisera was a survivor of sexual violence, and Although in our world nowadays, female power is rising, this painting coming from the 1600's where male dominance is prevalent, does not mean misogynists have completely disappeared. As a woman, the painting for me shows how women are capable to defend themselves. This painting coming from the year 1600's where women only stayed at home doing chores while their husbands work for a living and fight for the country says a lot about how women are looked down upon. In the Philippine context, it was a proud moment to see that women are now leading the country.

Reference:

Content, I. M. H. of. (2023, July 31). Artemisia Gentileschi paintings - the queen of the baroque. Art in Context. https://artincontext.org/artemisia-gentileschi-paintings/

Title: Expansion

Year Created: 2004

About the work:

This contemporary mixed media sculpture is made by Paige Bradley whose fascination with art started when she was 9 years old, and was immersed in both nature and art. The sculpture is a woman in a meditating position, naked, and seen shining is coming from the cracks around her body.

Why I chose it:

I chose it because it's a representation of the hardships we face in life as a whole. It gives a message of how being "broken" is not a weakness, but a testament of how strong we are, as these cracks in us can pave a way and make us learn from our mistakes. Sometimes in life we have to not pretend we are not broken, but instead owe it up to that brokenness to be able to embrace our flaws. We have this inner light that ignites within us that expands beyond our limits, and that's my take on this artwork. The truth will set us free.

References:

Natashamoura. (2025, July 4). Expansion by Paige Bradley. Women’n Art. https://womennart.com/2017/05/17/expansion-by-paige-bradley/

Shashi. (2015a, February 19). Expansion - a beautiful sculpture by Paige Bradley. Medium. https://medium.com/@VerseEveryDay/expansion-a-beautiful-sculpture-by-paige-bradley-89e22ae59343

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Title: ‘Thinking Man’

Year Created: 1981

About the work: The painting Thinking Man is a highly charged presentation of contrasts, which is achieved by the rendition of the pictorial space as a smooth surface vis-a-vis the textured application of paint on the subject. The inner struggle that is presented here goes beyond the literal. In as much as the human figure calls attention by its sheer size and position on the foreground, the vivid color behind the subject does not allow it to dominate visually, maintaining its own assertive presence.

Why I chose this work: After deeply analyzing Ang Kiukok’s work of art, this particular piece entitled ‘Thinking Man’ has caught my attention. In the aspect of art, although most of his work contains the same elements, this was by far the best that I’ve seen. The good color combination, precise use of shapes which enabled a fast interpretation of the work, and can express the meaning behind it. While focusing on the other hand, in relation to my observation after a long stare, I had a sincere interpretation from this art. I was able to feel the emotion of the art is trying to express; distress, sorrow, and darkness.

References:

> Ang Kiukok Artworks. (n.d.). Salcedo Auctions. https://blog.salcedoauctions.com/ang-kiukok-artworks/‌

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Submitted by: Dustin Karl E. Chua

Title: ‘Bagong Taon’

Year Created: 1952

About the Work:

A trio of cyclists on a single bicycle are shown celebrating the New Year in Luz’s Bagong Taon. This painting is one of utter simplicity that belies careful, precise planning. Each object is there for a symbolic purpose: a tiny moon reveals it is evening, a small cone represents the trumpet used during the New Year’s Eve revelry, and a yellow-green background indicates that the action takes place outdoors. The cyclists are thin and straight. Their heads, faceless and pin shaped, are reduced to their basic geometric components. The only visible physical differences among the figures are the colors of their clothes.

Why I chose this work: With the Philippines being known as the country that celebrates the Christmas season during September, I chose this artwork given the month we are in today. Personally, as someone who have always took the Christmas and New Year season wholeheartedly and considering it as a month of change, I was able to reflect with this particular work. How one holds a telescope during New Year’s Eve illustrates the feeling of excitement for what a new year could hold for us. How the painting is represented by a trio, celebrating the new year with the friendships made. This painting is a reminder of celebration after a year of struggle, pain, and challenges.

References: Cultural Center of the Philippines. (2020). Bagong Taon. https://epa-beta.zennerslab.com/3/82/2133/

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Submitted by: Dustin Karl E. Chua

Title: ‘Dimension of Fear’

Year Created: 1965

About the work: Is an abstract expressionist painting that uses bold colors like reds and blacks, along with strong lines and textures, to evoke a dark, foreboding, and turbulent mood, possibly symbolizing a battle or the fear associated with conflict and societal issues.

Why I chose this work: Despite being an artwork of colors only, being unlikely similar to artworks with a character that embodies its work, this particular piece perfectly demonstrates an abstract painting. I like how it represented different dimensions through its colors. And to how I interpret it, it’s like the colors are spreading away, illustrating the feeling of fear. Truthfully, first time seeing it, I thought to myself that it wasn’t that much of value. But after incorporating the title to its piece, I gave myself some time to think and gave me the question of “What is fear?”, then after some time, I came up with the decision of choosing this as my 3rd art piece to present.

References:

Cañete, R., & Cañete, R. (2025, July 30). Jose Joya explores nature with abstract expressionism. BluPrint. https://bluprint-onemega.com/arts-culture/jose-t-joya-art/

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Submitted by: Dustin Karl E. Chua

Title: ‘Les Clochards, Montmartre, Paris’

Year Created: 1947

About the work: In the artwork, four individuals are depicted on a bench, enveloped in heavy clothing, with palpable weariness and despair. The central figure is a woman, comfortably nestled and asleep, using a rucksack as a pillow. To her right, another woman sits with a solemn expression, lost in thought. Two men are seated on the other end of the bench, each appearing absorbed in their own isolation despite their close proximity. One man, with a hat pulled low, faces away from the viewer, exuding a withdrawn demeanor, while the other gazes downward introspectively. The background subtly features subdued colors and signage, reinforcing the urban setting. The figures’ postures and expressions, rendered in expressive brush strokes and moody tones, evoke a poignant reflection on human hardship and resilience.

Why I chose this work: I chose this particular piece as it reminds me of the contemporary issue of corruption going on our country. This art symbolizes how people of luxury are unbothered by how the poor are living. Choosing to act blindly not to help those who are helpless. Personally, I was able to correlate with this art piece as someone who lives in a country where corruption is normalized. Political dynasties are not talked enough, and people are continue to living blindly as long as this does not affect them.

References:

Les Clochards, Montmartre, Paris (1947) by Lois Mailou Jones. (2024). www.artchive.com. https://www.artchive.com/artwork/les-clochards-montmartre-paris-lois-mailou-jones-1947/

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Submitted by: Dustin Karl E. Chua

Title: ‘The Census at Bethlehem’

Year Created: 1566

About the work: Observing the painting’s numerous self-contained vignettes of ordinary life, as it was experienced almost than half a millennium ago, it is impossible not to be struck by the continuity of the things that we value and the things that challenge us – a love of play, an appreciation of the importance of labour, the temptation of indulgence, the inspiration of hope, the unwelcome inevitably of paying taxes, the need for resistance to tyranny -- or just the peaceful pleasures of pottering around

Why I chose this work: In honor of the most-anticipated season of the year, I chose this artwork to express my deep appreciation during the Christmas season. Seeing this artwork, it made me conclude a variety of things that go on within it. Like how there is a gathering happening, some are working, while Mary and Joseph are traveling. Although there are so many elements in it, but somehow the piece itself is still unified. Which made me appreciate this particular piece more.

References:

Bruegel’s White Christmas: The Census at Bethlehem. (n.d.). Journal of ART in SOCIETY. https://www.artinsociety.com/bruegelrsquos-white-christmas-the-census-at-bethlehem.html

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Submitted by: Dustin Karl E. Chua

Title: ‘The Kiss’

Year Created: 1897

About the work: The dark ambiance of The Kiss is representative of Munch's ambivalence regarding romance. It's virtually impossible to separate the two figures, particularly where their faces meet and become one in the painting.

Why I chose this work: Although this artwork will most likely be interpreted as romance, it actually hides a deep and sorrowful meaning behind it. I chose this work as I was able to correlate myself with my experience in love. This art depicts a romance between a couple and while their love for each other can be seen as great, it can also mean the loss of one another. If interpreted, love can get you obsessed. And with love, it can also cost you great risk.

References:

The Kiss, 1897 by Edvard Munch. (n.d.). Edvard Munch. https://www.edvardmunch.org/the-kiss.jsp

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Submitted by: Dustin Karl E. Chua