Come walk with me in an enchanting stroll in the National Museum of the Philippines.
This museum showcases great and world renowned artist from the country. It is embarrassing to say but I grew up in this country but it is my first time to visit this museum. The place is rich with history and culture and I am glad I took my family with me in this visit. The museum is free and open to the public but the security is tight. You cannot bring your bags in if it exceeds a certain size. I was a bit worried I thought they did not allow photography but it is allowed but no flash as there is just a certain amount of controlled light allowed. The flash from cameras will break down the materials of the paintings specially the old ones. No tripods or selfie sticks are also allowed. Everyday lots of visitors come in tourists and locals alike to get a glimpse of culture and history.
This was the old Congress building and was buit in 1921 and served the congress until 1972. This building also housed the Senate until 1997. From then on this building houses more than 1,000 pieces of artworks from painting to sculptures dating back from the 18th century.
Once you enter the gallery you will be greeted by this artwork made from reinforced concrete entitled Diwata which means fairy a piece created by Guillermo E. Tolentino. When I entered there were also a bunch of teens taking selfies and making poses with the piece. I was surprised when one of the guards approached them and said " I already said earlier. Please do not copy the pose of the pieces as it is very disrespectful." I then realized that the teens were mimicking the pose of the piece, probably looking forward to post it on their social media or as a profile picture. I realized that the security there was doing good to ensure respect and security of the art pieces, which I well agree with as some of the pieces are more than 100 years old.
This piece is called El Asesinato del Gobernador Bustamante by Félix Resurrección Hidalgo one of the great Filipino painters from 1904. This is a depiction of the murder of the Governor by friars. This was painted in Spain and stands at 11 ft. width and 13 ft. in height. The painting was in Spain until 1914 then was brought to the Philippines.
The Monument to Arthur Walsh Fergusson inaugurated in 1913 created by Mariano Benlliure a Spanish artist . This was created in memory of Arthur Fergusson the first Executive Secretary of the Philippines. Well loved by both Filipinos and Americans due to his charm and skill in dealing with difficult situations.
The moment I saw this piece seeing the massive painting, rugged wooden frame with chains. The depiction showing dead and dying gladiators being pulled away armor and weapons being taken away which is a frightful sight. Shivers came down my spine and everything around me seems to have silenced. I was enchanted and captivated by the artwork which stands at 13.8 ft in width and 25.18 ft in height. The crowned jewel in the main gallery of the museum Created by our Filipino national artist Juan Luna entitled Spolarium which received the gold medal Prize of Honor in Madrid in 1884. Created by a genius which has a deeper meaning during the Spanish rule for 400 years depicts oppression the dead gladiators as the Filipino people being pulled away into the darkness according to the experts. The largest painting in the Philippines once you stand in front of it you would feel dominated by size and emotion of this artwork.
Next are the works of Isabelo Tampinco a Filipino sculptor and renowned for his sculptures and wood works for church altars, pillars and other religious pieces from the late 18th and early 19th century.
This is one of my favorite pieces entitled Woman in Mourning with Bouquet. This caught my attention and things came running in my head the feeling of melancholy , sympathy and grief was pouring out in this art piece.
I would like learn more about the story behind this piece when I come back.
Stained glass windows from churches is something I have much adoration with. Every time I visit churches it is the first thing I always look for. The next gallery shows religious artwork dating back during the 1800s Spanish rule.
This piece called Retalbo which means side altar was taken from the Church of San Nicolas de Tolentino, Dimiao in Bohol. Dating back from the 18th century has very intricate carvings made by an unknown artist is also considered as a national treasure.
Wood statues of patrons watch over the Retalbo gives you tranquil mood in this part of the gallery.
This Exhibit showcases Hocus by Guy Custodio and conceptualized by Saul Hofileña, Jr. This gallery consist of an alliance between artist and historian and some pieces are unusual yet fascinating.
This piece is called La Pesadilla 2016 which reminds me of The Triumph of Death by Pieter Bruegel the Elder.
The battle between good and evil and was told shows symbols and hidden meaning in today's restless times. Try to look closer and see if you can unravel the symbolism within this art piece.
There are also some pieces which are political in nature. Past historical events and dark times are also illustrated by various local artist.
Finally my final stop another masterpiece from Juan Luna entitled Interior d'un Cafi (The Parisian Life from 1892. The woman in the painting was said to be a prostitute in a cafe. The three men on the painting on the left side is the painter himself, José Rizal, and Ariston Bautista important figures in Philippine History. This piece has a lighter and relaxed mood in contrast with Spoliarium. His works shows his genius and skill and a National artist that will never be forgotten but also celebrated by future generations.
I was unable to go thru all the collection as time was an essence. We had an hour before the museum closes. I will be back in this place and allot more time so I can enjoy more of the artwork.
I hope you enjoyed this enchanting cultural walk thru art and history. If ever you are in the Philippines do drop by this museum as it would be a fascinating experience for all you Steemians out there.
Enjoy the rest of the weekend.
My Share for #BeautifulSunday initiated by @ace108
