People all over the world wanted to escape from reality during the start of the pandemic. Government officials implemented restrictions; people had no choice but to stay at home. Some establishments and tourist attractions stopped to prevent the spread of the virus. For instance, the National Museums of the Philippines did not allow walk-in visitors. Hence, people must book an online reservation before visiting.
As an artist, I love going to the National Museum of Fine Arts in Manila. You can see the paintings, sculptures, drawings, and photographs of various Filipino artists. One of the most famous artworks there is the “Spoliarium” created by Juan Luna in 1884.
When I visited the place last January, I discovered some works of our national heroes and artists. So, let’s have a tour to explore the beauty of this museum!
The Works of National Heroes
Most Filipinos know Rizal for his works Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. But if you visit the National Museum of Fine Arts, you will see his drawings and sculptures. For example, The La Venganza de la Madre (1894), a terracotta figure made by him during his exile in Dapitan.
Moreover, they also collected the iconic artworks of Juan Luna. Like the “Mi Novia '' or the Portrait of a Lady, it shows a beautiful woman with Luna's excellent brush strokes. Based on my research, the painting is Luna's idealized vision of his Spanish-Filipino mestiza wife. So, you should find this masterpiece when you visit the museum.
Abstract Paintings
As I explored the rooms, I dived into the colors, textures, shapes, and lines of Abstract Paintings. Many artists have unique styles of expressing their thoughts and emotions. I found myself drowning while walking in the hallway. In order to understand clearly the meaning of the paintings, you need to appreciate and focus on them, like you are diving into the elements of art.
The Confetti Rhythm (1989), made by Mike Aquino is one of my favorite abstract paintings I have seen in the museum.
Fernando Amorsolo Sketches
Amorsolo is best known for his impressive landscape paintings that portray Filipino culture and fiestas. Hence, he became the National Artist of the Philippines for Visual Arts. When I saw his works in the museum, one of my favorites was his sketches which are minimal and dynamic. Besides, Amorsolo’s paintings are magical. The combination of colors and brush strokes he used displayed the beauty of Philippine tradition.
To sum up, visiting the National Museum of Fine Arts was a way to escape from the darkness of the pandemic. It was a colorful and meaningful experience. I would always go back to this place and appreciate the beauty of paintings, drawings, and sculptures.
To more visits to National museums! It’s for free!
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