Lesson 1 Philippine Art History

Summary

The arts in the Philippines showcase a rich tapestry of influences, evolving through three main traditions: ethnic, Spanish colonial, and American colonial/contemporary. Ethnic art reflects the diverse experiences and geography of the Philippines, with unique dances, visual arts, and folk literature. Spanish colonization introduced Western artistic forms to propagate Catholicism, altering the landscape of literature, dance, and architecture. American colonialism further transformed the arts, paving the way for modern and contemporary expressions that reflect current societal themes. Together, these traditions highlight the complex cultural heritage and identity of the Philippines.

Takeaways

• 🎨 The arts in the Philippines encompass various forms developed from the country's early civilization to the present.
• 🌍 Philippine art reflects a blend of indigenous influences shaped by geographical diversity and cultural experiences.
• 🕺 Ethnic traditions include highland dances that imitate animal movements and coastal dances mimicking fish.
• 🏠 Pre-colonial architecture consisted of temporary shelters made from natural materials, as early Filipinos were nomadic.
• 📖 Folk literature during the pre-colonial era included narratives, songs, and oral traditions expressing ancestral experiences.
• 🎶 Early theatrical performances involved tribal presentations and rituals, supported by indigenous musical instruments.
• ⛪ The Spanish colonial period introduced art as a tool for spreading Catholicism, replacing many indigenous art forms with Western styles.
• 📜 Literary works during Spanish colonization were categorized into religious and secular themes, with various forms of poetry and prose.
• 🎻 The introduction of Western musical instruments led to the establishment of bands and orchestras in the Philippines.
• 🖼️ The American colonial period influenced contemporary Philippine art, encouraging experimentation with diverse materials and themes.

Q & A

What are the three major traditions in the development of Philippine arts?

The three major traditions in Philippine arts are ethnic tradition, Spanish colonial tradition, and American colonial and contemporary tradition.

How are the ethnic art forms in the Philippines influenced?

Philippine ethnic art forms are influenced by geographical location and the experiences of Filipinos, reflecting local customs and traditions.

What are the two categories of dances in pre-colonial Philippines?

The two categories of dances in pre-colonial Philippines are highland dances, which imitate animal movements, and near-sea dances, which mimic the movements of fish.

What materials did early Filipinos use for architecture during the pre-colonial period?

Early Filipinos used natural materials like cogon, anahaw, bamboo, and rattan to build shelters, as they were primarily nomadic.

What role did Spanish colonization play in the evolution of Philippine arts?

Spanish colonization introduced Western art forms, used art to propagate Catholicism, and replaced many indigenous art practices with religious and secular works.

What types of literary works emerged during the Spanish colonial period?

Literary works during the Spanish colonial period were primarily classified into religious and secular prose and poetry.

How did American colonization influence Philippine arts?

American colonization led to experimentation with different materials and methodologies in art, resulting in non-conventional artworks with diverse themes.

What is the difference between modern art and contemporary art?

Modern art refers to artistic practices from the 1860s to the 1960s, while contemporary art encompasses current practices from the 1970s to the present, reflecting modern societal themes.

What are some examples of the new artistic expressions seen during the American colonial period?

Examples of new artistic expressions include works by artists like Buen Kabuyans, Bundok Banahao, and Elmer Borlongan, who experimented with various themes and materials.

What indigenous musical instruments were present in pre-colonial Philippine arts?

Indigenous musical instruments included bamboo flutes and bass gongs, used in tribal presentations and rituals.