Republic Central Colleges
Angeles City
Contemporary Philippine Arts from the
Regions
Module 1: What is Philippine Art?
OBJECTIVES:
Define the meaning of art.
Enumerate and differentiate the elements and forms of an artwork.
Identify the main characteristic of what makes a Filipino artwork.
Define what is idealizing in reference to distinguishing Filipino art.
Explain the role of tradition and language as a factor in questioning identity in Philippine art.
ART
- According to the Greek Philosopher, Aristotle, art is linked to human instincts – imitation and
harmony that lie deep in human nature.
- is a human pursuit to imitate life and the world into something pleasing or beautiful.
ELEMENTS OF AN ARTWORK
1. SUBJECT – the theme or topic of an artwork.
Example: poverty, environment and happiness.
2. MEDIUM – the way the artist choose to express the subject.
Example: painting – how the colors were blended into the canvas
FORMS OF AN ARTWORK
A. PICTURE (Drawing, Painting, Printmaking and Photography)
- A two-dimensional image of various subjects ranging from real-life images to the visually
abstract. It may be created using different media as chalk, charcoal, graphite, ink, oil paint
and watercolor.
B. SCULPTURE
- A three-dimensional artwork that may be created using stone, marble, wood and concrete.
C. ARCHITECTURE
- These are structures that meant to be used as shelter. The art of architecture relies on the
design and purpose of the structure.
D. MUSIC
- This is the art form that appeals to the sense of hearing. Music is composed by combining
notes into harmony.
E. LITERATURE
- This is the form of language through the combined use of words, creating meaning and
experience.
F. THEATER
- This is the art form of performance. Dramatic texts are portrayed on stage by actors and
actresses and are enhanced by props, lights, and sounds.
G. CINEMA
- This art form is a technological translation of theater. In films, special effects are utilized to
enhance the storytelling.
H. DANCE
- This is the art of the human form. The body is used, mobilized, and choreographed in a
specific time, form, and space.
PHILIPPINE ART AS FILIPINO
- Philippine art is influenced by our colonial history and migrant reality. The influences brought
by the Spaniards, Americans, and other Asian countries have become part of our identity that
is evident in our art: Spanish-inspired architecture, American-influenced poetry and music and
so on.
1|MODULE 1: What is Philippine Art?
- According to Leo Benesa, a Filipino poet, essayist, and art critic, there is a certain
characteristic of Filipino art and that is when the artwork shows the Filipino way of living.
2|MODULE 1: What is Philippine Art?