Republic of the Philippines

AURORA STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY

EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BALER, AURORA

]]
CHAPTER 8
Course Topic: Caught I between: Modern and Contemporary Art
Educational Objectives of the chapter:
At the end of the lesson, the students are expected to:
1. Differentiate modern and contemporary art;
]]
2. How the interrelation of modern and contemporary art;
3. Isolate and discuss significant historical events that informed and inspired the different
movements under contemporary art; and
4. Classify specific artworks into the different movements under contemporary art.

Reference: Art Appreciation by Berbardo Nicolas Caslib, Jr, Dorothea C. Garing and Jezreel Anne
R. Casaul

DISCUSSION:
This history of art is one of the most difficult tasks to pin down. It is important to note
that the periods and movements of art themselves testaments to the connection of art and culture
in the everyday life. As it is examined and analyze in context, it becomes increasingly apparent
that art is not detachable from; rather, it is embedded of specific eras and how theses beliefs were
translated into how people saw themselves and the world and how they choose to come into
terms with it – all in flux.
This lesson attempts to provide a glimpse of contemporary art and how it was
understood, defined and represented, not only within the bounds of the art world, but also beyond
it.
Contemporary
The term “contemporary” seems simple and straightforward enough to define. There is
assumption that it need not to be asked, rather, that it must already be understood. But with an
attempt to do so, one finds it is a lot harder to grasp. The complexity of defining the term is
attributed to the fact that people have dissenting views on the interpretation of the “present”, of
“today”, or what the “now” means – these are often ideas that follows the word contemporary.
Even more so, is when it is hinged on the word “art” and suddenly it becomes a bit fuzzy.
To better make sense of contemporary art, perhaps it is best to dial back to its
predecessor, modern art. Modern art saw the digestion of artists away from the past conventions
and traditions and toward freedom. There is the famous adage of “anything goes”. With the
world becoming increasing complex, it required an art that could accommodate such range and
breadth. Roughly between the 1860’s to late 1970’s, creatives celebrated the novel opportunities
in art, from materials to its manipulation and ways of seeing and thinking about art. The devotion
of artists to a strict narrative was often illustrated in their figurative works; however, these artist
gave their nod to abstraction the tenets of this of this period were not only reflected in its art, but
it was also evident in the way people lived and conducted themselves, the social issues that were
relevant, fashion, music and wide range of images and activities they were engaged in. this
period saw the heavy mass production of goods, along with the encouraging environment made
possible by industrialization, new technology, urbanization, and rise of commercially driven
1 Module in Art Appreciation

By: MS. MARJORIE J. RUZOL, 2nd Semester, SY 2021-2022

 Republic of the Philippines
AURORA STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BALER, AURORA

]]
culture. There was also a palpable secularization of society, interest in nature, and primacy of the
self and individuality. Artist were committed to developing a language of their own – original
but representative. What this means is that artists drew the world but in his own terms. It was no
wander that within this period grew a vast number of different movements.
Reaping the benefits and drawbacks of the dramatic changes that occurred at the
beginning of the 20th century, the social, political, and cultural context continued to provoke he
]]
artist to create. What compelled artists’ woks were not prevailing medium, technique, or style;
rather, it was the themes and concerns they addressed. And the conversation was no longer
limited to geographic locales, but become increasingly a global conversation. Contemporary art
was heavily driven and theories, and even the blurring of notions of what is and can be
considered as “art”, with the involvement of television, photography, cinema, digital technology
performance, and even objects of the everyday. It was the idea that was more important than its
visual articulation.
Creating energy was at the center of “op art” or optical art (early 1960’s onward). Much
like what was discussed in the lesson on elements of art that dimension can be implied even on a
two-dimensional surface or plane, op art relied on creating an illusion to inform the experience of
the artwork using color, pattern, and other perspective tricks that artists has on their sleeves.
From making it seems like a section was protruding out or receded in the background, to creating
movement, works under this movement showed a certain kind of Dynamism. Other artists
expanded their works to include other materials such as nails, plexiglass, and metal rods.
Contemporary Art
We can observe that there were overlaps with the acceptance and practice of these
movements, they were not only overlapping with each other, but they were embedded in a social
order that was in fact somewhat “disordered.”
One of the main developments during this time was the turn from the traditional notions
of what art is: from painting and sculptures to the more experimental formats. This included film,
photography, video, performance, installations and sire-specific works, and earth works. Even
these formats tended to overlap, leading to interesting and dynamic, and otherwise “unheard of”
combinations of concepts, subject, materials, techniques, and methods of creation, experience
and even analysis. Compared to other periods, it can be argued that contemporary artist the most
socially aware and involved form of art. The subject matter of its works was one of the most
pressing, heated, and even controversial issues of contemporary society.
Contemporary Art Movements
Neo-Pop Art
In the 1980s there was a renewed interest in pop art, what
made it different from pop-art was that it appropriated some of the
first ideas of Dada in which ready-made materials were used for the
artwork. Dada was a movement that was very much against the
values of bourgeois, the colonial and even the national. It was both
anarchic as it was referencing anarchy – the war ensued because of
the values the movement abhors and despises. Aside form this, it Jeff Koons, “Puppy” (1992). Stainless
steel, soil and flowering plants.
does not only reference popular culture, but more importantly,
Guggenheim Bilbao Museoa.
criticized and evaluated it.

2 Module in Art Appreciation

By: MS. MARJORIE J. RUZOL, 2nd Semester, SY 2021-2022

 Republic of the Philippines
AURORA STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BALER, AURORA

]]
In Koon’s Puppy, he uses computer modeling to create a behemoth of a sculptural work –
a giant topiary – that refers back to saccharine, ideas of sentimentality, security and banality:
flowers, a puppy (west highland terrier), Hallmark greeting card, and Chia pets. This work
articulates his exploration of the limits that exist between the mass or popular and the elite
culture.
Photorealism
The resurgence of figurative art, where]]realistic depictions is a choice, is a proof how
varied and fragmented postmodernism is. Photorealism, a painstaking attention to detail is
aimed, without asserting an artist’s personal style. These drawings and paintings are so
immaculate in their precision that it starts to look like it is a photo without a direct reference to
the artist who created it. Two of the known photorealist artists are Chuck Close and Gerhard
Richter.
Conceptualism
Other movements were informed and shaped by pop art, such as conceptualism. As
opposed to celebrating commodities as reference to real life, conceptualism fought against the
idea that art is a commodity, this movement also brought to the fore issues brought about by art
institutions such as museums and galleries where works are peddled and circulated. Some of the
major conceptual artists are Jenny Holzer, Damien Hirst and Ai Wei Wei.
“in conceptual art, the idea or concept is the most important aspect of the works. When an
artist uses a conceptual form of art, it means that all the planning and decisions are made
beforehand and the execution is a perfunctory affair.”
Performance Art
Performance art is related to conceptual art, whose rosters of well-known artists include
the likes of Marina Abramovic, Yoko Ono, and Joseph Beuys. As movement, it began in the
1960s and instead of being concerned with entertaining its audience, the heart of the artwork is
its idea or message. Here, the audience may even be an accomplice to the realization of art. An
interesting proposition is that performance is not about the medium or the format; rather, it is
how a specific context is made in which through engagement and interaction, questions,
concerns and conditions will be fleshed out.
Installation Art
Compared to the traditional art formats, installation art is a kind of an immersive work
where the environment or the space in which the viewer steps into or interacts with (going
around installative art) is transformed or altered. Usually large-scale, installation art makes use
of a host of objects, materials, conditions, and even light and aural components. Theses work
may also be considered site-specific and may be temporary or ephemeral in nature. Well-known
installation artists are Allan Kaprow Yayoi Kusama, and Dale Chihuly.

Ant Farm (Chip Lord, Hudson

Marquez, Doug Michels), “Cadillac
Ranch” (1974).

3 Module in Art Appreciation

By: MS. MARJORIE J. RUZOL, 2nd Semester, SY 2021-2022

 Republic of the Philippines
AURORA STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BALER, AURORA

]]

An example of a public installation art is the “Cadillac Ranch”, comprised of 10

Cadillacs of different model raging from 1949 to 1964. Buried nose-first into the ground, each
car is seemingly equidistant from each other and forming a straight line. From its original site
along Interstate 40, it was moved in 1997 to its new spot two miles westward along interstate.
The cars underwent several changes, from the first time they were installed as they were located
]]
in a public space. It didn’t take long before graffiti found its way onto the surfaces of the cars,
and was painted different colors such as gray. It also has a pink phase in the 1990s, wherein all
cars were painted pink.
Earth art
Sometimes called as a kind of spin-off of installation art, earth art (or land art) is when
the natural environment or a specific site or a space is transformed by artists. It is a kind of
human intervention into a specific landscape or terrain. Earth art is different from environmental
art in a sense that it does not focus on the subject (environmental issue and concerns) but rather
on landscape manipulation and the materials used, taken directly from the ground or vegetation
(rocks or twigs). Artists known for Earth Art are Robert Smithson, Christo, Richard Long, Andy
Goldworthy and Jeanne-Claude.
Street Art
This art movement is related to graffiti art as it is a by-product of the rise of graffiti in the
1980s. artworks created are not traditional in format but are informed by the illustrative,
painterly and print techniques and even a variety of media (even video projections). Some of the
examples of this include murals, stenciled images, stickers and installations or
installative/sculptural objects usually out of common objects and techniques. Since these works
are most commonly found in the public sphere, various people who have access to them have
formed the impression and perception of the artworks themselves.
These works operate under investigating circumstances since they are unsanctioned and
do not enkoy the invigilated environments of museums and galleries. However, these works also
end up in them, as street artists also hold more traditional exhibitionary formats in the white
cube. If it is in the open space, there are no governing rules in its production and sometimes, in
the interaction. Known street artists include Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, Shepard Fairey, and
Banksy. Banksy’s popularity is evidenced by the creation of a film documentary that spoke about
him and his works. Gordon Matta-Clark, Jenny Holzer, and Barba Kruger are some of the known
street artists.

Banksy, Sweeping it Under the Carpet.”

(Hoxton)

4 Module in Art Appreciation

By: MS. MARJORIE J. RUZOL, 2nd Semester, SY 2021-2022

 Republic of the Philippines
AURORA STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BALER, AURORA

]]
CHAPTER 9

Course Topic: Soulmaking, Appropriation, and Improvisation

Educational Objectives of the chapter:
At the end of the lesson, the students are expected to:
]]
a. Explain how meanings can be derived from art;
b. Discuss how improvisation can make an artwork distinctive; and
c. Identify the issues and problems that can arise because of appropriation of art.

Reference: Art Appreciation by Berbardo Nicolas Caslib, Jr, Dorothea C. Garing and Jezreel Anne
R. Casaul

DISCUSSION:
Soulmaking: Making and Deriving Meaning from Art
In order for humans to make sense of language and meanings from words, semantics and
grammatical rules are important elements to be considered. Aside from this, context and
symbolism are also considered to interpret and analyze either verbal or written works, when it
comes to art, in order for people to make sense of the work, it would require understanding the
visual elements where art was grounded on, especially the principles of design. It is important to
note that the audience of the artwork must have a certain level of awareness to the style, from
and content of the said work. Without such understanding, it would be difficult to appreciate the
visual arts in its fullest and entirely.
Style refers to the distinctive handling and media associated with the works of an
individual artist, a school, a movement, or s specific culture or time period (Fichner-Rtahus,
2013). Throughout history, there have been developments in a art styles that depicts different and
varied methods of expression. Artworks also have a certain form. This form is what the audience
sees – a finished product put harmoniously (or not) according to the different principles of
design. In essence, form is the totality of the artwork, which includes not only its form but also
its subject matter an underlying meanings or themes (Fichner-Rtahus, 2013). The perceiver of
the artwork must take into consideration the totality of elements, underlying themes and motifs,
and composition.
Improvisation
Improvisation can be defined as doing something without prior preparation. There is a
decision to act upon something that may not necessarily be planned. Within the present context,
improvisation has become an integral part of the arts. Some would say that it is a reaction against
the stiffness in the arts during the 20th century. There is a call for liberation from monotony that
aims to rekindle the creative spirits of people in the arts.
For some artists, infusing spontaneity and improvisation adds up to the totality of the
work of art. The unexpectedness of the changes brought about by improvisation makes the
artwork to have a distinctive quality that creates its individuality and identity. Some artists
subscribe to the idea of allowing chances in the process of producing the work. For example,
artists would want to capture the gloom brought about by an approaching storm or the beauty of
a meteor shower at night. Since the do not necessarily have absolute control over natural
5 Module in Art Appreciation

By: MS. MARJORIE J. RUZOL, 2nd Semester, SY 2021-2022

 Republic of the Philippines
AURORA STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BALER, AURORA

]]
phenomena, their reliance on chances may not necessarily produce their expected outcome.
Artists allowing their subject do improvisation may have totally different results as well.
When an artist makes his art, he has already an idea of elements that will be included in
his work. As he begins to craft his work, he may have deviated from his original plan. So, in
essence, improvisation is evident in the process of making the painting. During the 1960s, art
Improvisation has taken form in the galleries around New York City, Performance Arts, dance
]]
and visual rats were combined to create forms of artworks using a new medium. These
performances were known as the “Happenings” which later on paved the way for modern body
art and performance art. One of the central figures in the Improvisation movement was George
Mathieu. He started the “action painting” wherein the process is seen real-time. In this scenario,
the process is more important than the finished product.

Marta Minunjin Performance Art

This picture shows how improvisation allows for a certain extent of freedom for the artist to
improvise and allow the subject to perform and embody the artwork itself. To a certain extent, it
allows the artists to explore and think about how the audience can actually be a part of the work
in itself. Improvisation may have been a revolutionary concept when it comes to art because it
blurs the line of reality and that of imagination.

6 Module in Art Appreciation

By: MS. MARJORIE J. RUZOL, 2nd Semester, SY 2021-2022

 Republic of the Philippines
AURORA STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BALER, AURORA

]]

]]

An example of Action Painting. By Gmhofmann (own work) CC BY – SA 3.0

Appropriation
If, for example, an artist created a painting and displayed it in a museum, who do think
owns the artwork: the artist or his intended audience? During the 20 th century, people started
raising the question whether or not of deriving meaning gives the ownership of the artwork to the
viewer rather than the artist himself. This notion paved the way for the emergence of
Appropriation artists who seem to produce the idea that the authorship relies on the viewer. If
this is the case, then appropriation artists can take as much as he wants from an existing artwork.
Appropriation of art has been a common practice throughout history. In the past, if an
apprentice painter needs to hone his skills in his craft, he would be allowed to use his mater’s
work to copy. It is as if the apprentice is trying to explore his personal application of techniques
to something he is more familiar with. However, there are some people who go to the extreme by
believing that copying the exact artwork of an artist and attributing It to his own. This could pose
a problem especially with authorship. The problem arises when Appropriation artist would get
bits and pieces from other works and incorporate these elements into his own work. In addition,
when appropriation artists eschew the responsibility for putting up the details of other works and
integrating them into their own, their voices and perspective of the other artists get lost with that
of the Appropriation artist. There seems to be a very thin demarcation line between appropriation
art and forgery. Traditionally, forgery can be classified into two forms: outright copies of
existing works and pastiches, which are works that bring together elements from a work and
infusing them to a new work. But in contemporary times, forgery can be in a form of creating an
approximate of what an artist would do by prediction. This can be done by observing the
techniques and styles the artist employed and even the focal points highlighted in his previous
and existing works.
The intentions of the appropriation artists are often questioned since issues of plagiarism
7 Module in Art Appreciation

By: MS. MARJORIE J. RUZOL, 2nd Semester, SY 2021-2022

 Republic of the Philippines
AURORA STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BALER, AURORA

]]
or forgery sometimes arise. Some would argue that the reason behind the Appropriation is that
they want the audience to recognized the images they copied. There is a hope on the part of the
artist for the viewers to see the original work in a new perspective. The appropriation would
bring about a new context to the original work. One of the most famous work of Appropriation
would have to be Andy Warhol’s “Campbell Soup Cans” (1962). Warhol copied the original
labels of the soup can but deliberately filled up the entire picture plane. The idea of putting
together of the soup cans is something new for ]]the audience. Just like any product, the brand is
integral to Campbell’s identity. As an artist, Warhol decided to isolate the image of the product.
This attempt could in turn stimulate product recognition. A common viewer would associate the
Campbell soup with the portraits of the soup cans. This association would bring about a certain
kind of craving for the said product. In a way it is a subtle form of advertising that would entice
the consumer to buy and patronize the product.

Andy Warhol, “Campbell Soup Cans” (1962)

8 Module in Art Appreciation

By: MS. MARJORIE J. RUZOL, 2nd Semester, SY 2021-2022

 Republic of the Philippines
AURORA STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BALER, AURORA

]]
CHAPTER 10

Course Topic: Art in Asia

Educational Objectives of the chapter:
At the end of the lesson, the students are expected to:
d. Identify key influences to Chinese]] art;
e. Identify key characteristics of Japanese Art;
f. Compare and contrast Chinese and Japanese artworks;
g. Trace the development of Philippine art;
h. Explain how art can be a key element in the formation of a society’s culture.

Reference: Art Appreciation by Berbardo Nicolas Caslib, Jr, Dorothea C. Garing and Jezreel Anne
R. Casaul

DISCUSSION:

Chinese Art

In the present context, China is at the forefront of economic development. Its booming
economy has led to its modernization. In addition, history shows that China has been at the
leading edge of development especially in terms of cultural development. Inhabitants of China in
the past were able to produce primitive artisan works. Excavated pieces show bronze vessels
with intricate designs depicting a lot of imagery dating from the second millennium BCE. the
Chinese during the Zhou Dynasty was under a feudal kind of social system. It was a parallel
period with that of Greece’s Golden Age: a period when culture, particularly art, has flourished
tremendously. During this period, metal works befitting the royal family were produced in
abundance. Jade was also a popular choice of material for artworks.
Confucianism was the dominant was of life subscribed to by the general public. Those
who subscribed to principles espoused by Confucius believed that in order for society to work,
one must learn how to sympathize to others. These principles become evident in most artworks
depicting everyday life and how these social interactions come to play.
The Chinese also had interactions with Western missionaries who came from India and
brought some of the Indian influences in China. Because of this, Indian models inspired a lot of
Chinese astists for a few centuries. By the start of the 6 th century, Chinese artists started making
art that highlighted their very own culture. It was a dominant belief that a great power coming
from a higher spirit is the one moving the artist and his works together.
Most paintings were done in monumental styles wherein rocks and mountains served as a
barrier that made the viewer distracted initially from the main subject of the work. Rounded
forms rise in a way that if flows from the background into the foreground. Artists also used sharp
brushstrokes to provide detail in their works. Western landscapes usually had a single vanishing
point while Chinese paintings had the opposite since most paintings aimed to give the audience a
multiple perspectives on the subject.
9 Module in Art Appreciation

By: MS. MARJORIE J. RUZOL, 2nd Semester, SY 2021-2022

 Republic of the Philippines
AURORA STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BALER, AURORA

]]
Porcelain is one of the commonly used items to make decorative ornaments, such as
vases and jars. Some artifacts from excavation sites show intricate works of the Chinese in the
porcelain vases. This can be attributed to the tradition of passing down the artistry from one
generation to the next. Just like most Chinese artworks, the focal point in these vases depicts a
central theme: nature. They believe that man is an integral part of nature ensuring that there is a
certain balance in it. But part of their culture is emphasizing a form of social life, giving
]]
importance to communities and interactions among people. In addition, some of the common
over aching themes of Chinese artworks include everyday activities, war and violence, death, and
nature. It can be noted that Chinese artworks are infused with a lot of symbolisms. Art becomes
an avenue for the artist to convey his reflection of the things he is aware of.
It is customary for the ancient Chinese people to show respect for their ancestors and
departed relatives. From a Western point of view, this reverence of the Chinese can be mistaken
for as that of worshiping gods. Most of the departed of the ancient Chinese were placed in their
gold or bronze vessels, depending on their social status.

Japanese Art
Art in Japan has undergone a series of transitions and periodization. From being an
isolated nation to that embracing Western influences and modernization, Japan has transitioned
into a modern cultural mixing pot. It is evident how the Japanese were able to infuse local and
indigenous materials with Modern Western subjects and focal points.
Based on the artifacts such as ceramic figures and ornaments, it is important to take note
that there are Korean and Chinese influences evident in Japanese artworks. One of the ceramic
products created by the Japanese is called Haniwa. These are ceramic figures that are made up of
clay. They are placed beside burial spots for reasons that are unknown.

Haniwa House
The native religion of Japan is Shintoism. Although, this religion subscribes to beliefs
such as being one with nature and embracing the notion of the existence of many gods, it did not
use art to communicate its beliefs. When Japan established trading relations with China, they did
not only trade goods with them but they were also influenced by the Chinese with their religious
beliefs and practices. Buddhism become an integral part of Japanese culture. Artworks such as
images and sculptures of Buddha were produced.

10 Module in Art Appreciation

By: MS. MARJORIE J. RUZOL, 2nd Semester, SY 2021-2022

 Republic of the Philippines
AURORA STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BALER, AURORA

]]
Buddhist temples also become staples in key places. Art in essence become an expression of
worship for the Japanese.
As mentioned earlier, Japan and China had a long-standing relationship. In addition to
Buddhism, China also influenced Japan in terms of paintings. After the 14 th century, Japan
isolated itself from the rest of the world, which in effect, gave them avenue to let their culture
flourish. The Japanese style of painting leaned toward abstract and naturalistic handling. In
essence, the artist is given the free reign for his ]]work, which had more room for spontaneity and
individuality. Many artists focused on individual portraits, elements of nature, and scenes from
everyday life in creating their artworks. Although the Chinese influence them, the Japanese
adapted a more minimalist take on their paintings. This is a stark contrast with the extravagant
and sometimes over-the-top designs of the Chinese. The Japanese also developed a kind of
painting called the ukiyo-e, which was crafted though woodcut prints. The artists developed a
technique that used lines and colors in a very distinctive manner. Some western artists were
intrigued and influenced by the ukiyo-e paintings. An example would be the woodcuts of
Hiroshige and Sharaku who had a lasting impact on Western artists like Vincent van Gogh and
Edouard Manet.

An Ukiyo-e painting entitled “Ase o fuku onna”

(Wiping Face). Print: Color and Woodcut.

11 Module in Art Appreciation

By: MS. MARJORIE J. RUZOL, 2nd Semester, SY 2021-2022

 Republic of the Philippines
AURORA STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BALER, AURORA

]]
Philippine Art

Throughout Philippine history, spanning from the precolonial period to the contemporary
periods, different art forms have emerged in the Philippine art scene. Before the colonizers came
to the Philippines, ethnic minorities have used art not only for daily activities but also for
religious rituals and practices, most art forms used by ethnic communities include pottery,
weaving, carving, and the use of metalwork and]]jewelry.

Pottery is said to be one of the earliest forms used by

early Filipino people. One of the most prominent artifacts related
to pottery is the Manunggal Jar found in Palawan. This jar is a
representation of the early Filipinos’ religious beliefs and
practices. It serves as a burial jar, which depicts two men rowing
a boat. This reflects their belief in afterlife – the crossing of the
body of water is a transition from life here on earth unto the next.
Eventually, such as pots for cooking and large vases for storing.
Weaving was also one of the earliest forms of art expressions in
the Philippines.

One of the most popular artisans of weaving is the people of Cordilleras. They are known
for their colorful woven cloth., which have both religious and practical value. The T’boli people
from Mindanao are also known for their woven abaca cloth called t’nalak. They use this
particular cloth to make ornaments, which also represent their beliefs through symbols. One of
the symbols. One example is the image of the frog, which is their representation for fertility.
Woodcarvings from Palawan also depicts animals like birds, which are representations of
their religious beliefs. According to the local stories, the birds serve as the messengers of the
people to the heavens and vise versa. In Mindanao, the Tausug and Maranao people are known
for the okir, which are designs applied to their woodcarvings.

Maranao Okir in 3D

Their common subjects include the sarimanok, naga, and the pako rabong. Each subject
is representation for a certain theme or motif but generally, these symbols depict their beliefs as a
people. The sarimanok is stylized design of a mythical bird either standing on a fish or holding a
piece of fish on its beak. The story of the sarimanok was a central figure to a number of legends.

12 Module in Art Appreciation

By: MS. MARJORIE J. RUZOL, 2nd Semester, SY 2021-2022

 Republic of the Philippines
AURORA STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BALER, AURORA

]]
One narrative tells the origin of the word sarimanok. A sultan of Lanao once threw a party for
his daughter Sari who was beautiful but unhappy with her situation. On the day of her party, a
rooster crashed and the princess ran off with the rooster. She was never found. In memory of
Sari, the Sultan caved a rooster. The Sultan’s act paved the way for the term sarimanok. Initially,
jewelry was used as amulets for protection to drive away evil spirits. Eventually, some minority
groups from the Cordilleras and Cotabato utilized jewelry as ornaments integrated in their
]]
clothing. The naga forms an S-Shape, depicting an elaborate figure of a mythical dragon or
serpent. The numerous curved lines serving as detail for the figure depicts the scales. The pako
rabong, on the other hand, is like a growing fern with a broad base. The fern gracefully stems
and tapers upward. The sarimanok and naga are usually used as ornamental design for the
houses of the sultans.
When the Spaniards discovered the Philippines during the 16 th century, they introduced
their religion to the local people. Aside from acquiring resources they had a goal to replace the
existing indigenous cultural practices and beliefs of the early Filipinos. Art was used by the
Spaniards to propagate their Christian faith while at the same time, subtly establishing their
foothold in the country. The Church, just like in Western Europe at one point, become the sole
patron of the arts. This can be evidently seen through the construction of churches. These
churches house various relics and paintings. There is an underlying move to integrate Western
culture and ideals in the Philippine setting. Being under colonial rule, it is not surprising for
Filipinos to express their indignation and desire for liberation. Art become one of the avenues for
Filipino patriots and nationalists. Probably one of the famous works that expressed Filipino
nationalism and stood against the colonizers would be Juan Luna’s “Spoliarium.” The large-scale
academic painting garnered a gold medal and signified that the reformist could come at par with
their European counterparts. At the same time, Luna’s win signaled the start of the Filipino’s call
for equality.

Juan Luna’s “Spoliarium” displayed at the National Museum.

13 Module in Art Appreciation

By: MS. MARJORIE J. RUZOL, 2nd Semester, SY 2021-2022

 Republic of the Philippines
AURORA STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BALER, AURORA

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When the Philippines was liberated from the Spanish rule, the Americans took over to
establish a colonial government. They also propagated their culture and beleifs through the
implementation of public school systems. Art had a new role in edvertising American-controlled
markets. After World War II, the Philippines saw itself as an independent state transitioning into
the formation of its nationality identity. Artists focused on modern takes when it comes to
content, from, and subject matter. In addition, a debate emerged on whether art should be done as
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“proletarian art” or “art for art’s sake.” As modern paintings started to emerge, a triumvirate of
artists was formed – Carlos Francisco, Galo B. Ocampo, and Edades.
The 1960s proved to be a period of modernism and dynamism with a lot of styles
techniques, and methods emerging. Most artworks were reflections of the political, social, and
economic situation of the Philippines during the Marcos administration. It was a period wherein
people embodied and advocated for nationalist ideals. This is the reason why there was a
paradigm shift pf subjects in the artworks. Beautiful and idealistic imagery was replaced with
aggressive undertones. The works were reflections of the general feel of the people based on the
political situation during the time. When former President Ferdinand Marcos declared martial
law, social realism become the norm. Most artworks were forms or protest against the
government’s suppression of freedom of speech and expression. In addition, some of the works
reflected issues like economic problems, land reforms, gender rights, worker’s right and cultural
minorities plaguing the Filipino people brought about by the Martial Law. Eventually,
photography has evolved into an art form, which highlights various artistic expressions evident
in a variety of events, scenes, and activities.

14 Module in Art Appreciation

By: MS. MARJORIE J. RUZOL, 2nd Semester, SY 2021-2022