Week 6

Promotion of Arts in the Philippines

Lesson 8: Promotions of Arts from the Regions

Art serves as a platform for Filipinos to express and portray practices, behaviors, ideologies, culture, and traditions from their regions or communities. Promoting and appreciating both traditional and contemporary arts from these regions is essential. However, before doing so, it is important to understand the context in which these artworks were created. Additionally, the changing environment impacts the production process of art, especially that of indigenous peoples or contemporary artists.

What's New

  • NCCA Chairman Arsenio "Nick" Lizaso emphasized the importance of being proud of and nourishing Filipino arts and culture, given the Philippines' rich cultural heritage.
  • "Only in the Philippines" reflects pride in unique Filipino activities. Art connects communities, expressing shared experiences, values, and beliefs, which are often passed down through generations.
  • The Presidential Commission on Culture and the Arts was established through Executive Order No. 118 in 1987 to promote Filipino arts and culture. Art history helps individuals understand the country’s struggles and triumphs, fostering appreciation for national identity.

Discussion Questions

  • Why is it necessary to preserve our arts and culture in the modern world?
  • Why is it important to have a national art center in the Philippines?

What is It: The Production Process and Changing Environment

The production of traditional and contemporary art continues to be influenced by changes in the environment. The environment provides the resources, space, and cultural context necessary for artistic creation.

Factors Affecting Art Production

  1. Tourism:
    • Land areas are converted into tourist sites, often leading to environmental damage.
    • Tourist mobility can affect local traditions and impact the quality of native art, transforming it into mass-produced souvenirs.
    • Example: Traditional textiles are increasingly commercialized with synthetic materials and neon colors.
  2. Militarization:
    • Militarized zones hinder artistic production due to insecurity and the prevention of communal gatherings where cultural knowledge and artistic skills are shared.
  3. Christianization:
    • The influence of Christianity has altered native traditions and rituals, though some communities, like the Manobo of Mt. Apo, harmonize their indigenous practices with Christian traditions through activities like clan reunions and native wedding rites.

Support Systems of Philippine Art

Several authorities, institutions, markets, galleries, and award-giving bodies support the preservation and promotion of Filipino art, ensuring that traditions and culture remain vibrant despite modernization.

Key Authorities and Institutions

  • National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA):
    • The NCCA is the overall policy-making body and grants agency for the preservation and promotion of Philippine arts and culture.
  • Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP):
    • A leading institution for arts and culture in the Philippines, dedicated to promoting artistic excellence and broad public participation.
  • National Museum:
    • An educational institution that acquires, preserves, and exhibits works of art, specimens, and cultural artifacts representing the Filipino people’s cultural heritage.
  • Metropolitan Museum of the Philippines:
    • Focuses on enhancing public appreciation of Filipino art and culture through education and community outreach programs.
  • BenCab Museum:
    • Houses the works of National Artist Benedicto Cabrera and is dedicated to promoting the arts of the Cordillera region.
  • Art Fair Philippines:
    • A platform for modern and contemporary Philippine visual arts, offering support to Filipino art practitioners.
  • ManilART:
    • A premier international art fair showcasing contemporary visual arts and promoting Filipino art locally and internationally.
  • Finale Art File:
    • A gallery institution known for experimental works and showcasing some of the Philippines' most talented contemporary visual artists.
  • Kublai Art Gallery and Davao Contemporary Art Gallery:
    • Promotes Davao’s visual arts scene, featuring works from renowned artists like Kublai Ponce-Millan.
  • Thirteen Artists Awards:
    • Celebrates contemporary Philippine art, recognizing artists who engage with global art trends and local traditions.

Ways to Promote Filipino Art

As individuals, students can promote Philippine arts by:

  • Visiting art exhibits and attending seminars.
  • Sharing Filipino artworks on social media platforms.
  • Appreciating art in its original context to define Filipino identity.

These actions reflect a nationalistic and patriotic ideology, making it crucial for every Filipino to take part in promoting the arts.

What I Have Learned

  1. Art is a platform for Filipinos to express their practices, culture, and traditions.
  2. Traditional and contemporary art production is influenced by environmental changes.
  3. Tourism can impact the authenticity and quality of traditional art.
  4. Militarization prevents the sharing of knowledge and hinders artistic creation.
  5. Christianity has influenced and sometimes altered indigenous practices.
  6. Several authorities, institutions, and organizations exist to support and promote Philippine arts.
  7. The NCCA is the primary body for preserving, promoting, and developing Philippine arts and culture.
  8. The Cultural Center of the Philippines promotes artistic excellence and public engagement.
  9. The National Museum plays a role in preserving and displaying the country's cultural heritage.
  10. The Metropolitan Museum of the Philippines promotes art for all and expands its audience.

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