Lesson 2: Brief History of Philippine Art | CPAR

Summary

This video script delves into the rich tapestry of Philippine art, distinguishing between contemporary and modern art and tracing the origins of Filipino artistic expression from pre-colonial times. It highlights indigenous tribes' art forms, rituals like 'canao' and 'kashowing', and the significance of music, dance, and carving in their culture. The script also explores ancient artifacts like the 'Manuk Jar' and the 'Bishop Codex', showcasing the evolution of textile weaving and the social hierarchy of 16th-century Filipinos.

Takeaways

• 📚 The script discusses the brief history of Philippine art, distinguishing between contemporary and modern art, with contemporary being from the past to the present and modern being anything new with the latest technology.
• 🏞️ The history of Philippine art begins with the pre-conquest or pre-colonial period, which includes the indigenous and pre-colonial eras before the Spanish colonization.
• 🌐 Indigenous people, such as the Bagobo, Igorot, Tagbanwa, and many others, were the original inhabitants of the Philippines and had their own art forms before the arrival of the Spanish.
• 🎨 Art in the pre-colonial period was characterized by open cultural exchange and trade among different Asian countries visiting the Philippines.
• 🔪 Primitive activities of the indigenous Filipinos included hunting, which was a dangerous but necessary activity for survival, and involved rituals and beliefs to ensure success and safety.
• 🎭 Rituals, music, dance, theater, and literature were integral parts of the indigenous people's culture, often performed before hunting activities as a form of spiritual preparation.
• 📜 The script mentions specific rituals like Canao from Caldera, which involves animal sacrifice and various ceremonies, and Kawa-king in Lakelandau, Mindanao, which is performed for rice abundance.
• 🎼 Traditional musical instruments such as Kojiapi, Gaban, Cavan, Agung, Kulintang, and Bamboo Flute are highlighted as part of the rich musical heritage of the Philippines.
• 💃 Folk dances like Pangala, Kinabu, Banugbanok, Bilaan, Manmanop, and Tinikling are described as significant expressions of the country's diverse ethnic cultures.
• 🗿 Sculpting and carving traditions are highlighted, including the Anito from Caldera, Hagabi, Santos, and the ancient terracotta Asmanukjar, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of the ancestors.
• 👗 Textile weaving is also an important aspect of Philippine art, with the Pistabita and Boxer Codex representing different styles and social classes during the 16th century.

Q & A

What is the distinction between contemporary and modern art as discussed in the script?

Contemporary art refers to art that is created from the recent past to the present, while modern art encompasses any new creation or technology that is innovative. The terms are often used interchangeably, with the choice between them depending on the context or personal preference.

What does the term 'pre-conquest period' refer to in the context of Philippine art history?

The 'pre-conquest period' refers to the time before the Spanish colonization of the Philippines, which includes both the indigenous and pre-colonial art forms created by the ethnic tribes living in the country.

What are some examples of indigenous tribes mentioned in the script that have contributed to the pre-colonial art of the Philippines?

Examples of indigenous tribes mentioned in the script include the Bhagobo, Igorot, Tagbanwa, and Mannow tribes, among many others.

What is the significance of rituals in the pre-colonial art and culture of the Philippines?

Rituals in pre-colonial Philippine art and culture were significant as they were performed to ensure abundant harvests in hunting and to provide safety. They often involved music, dance, theater, and literature, reflecting the spiritual and communal aspects of the indigenous people's lives.

Can you explain the 'Kanyao' ritual mentioned in the script?

The 'Kanyao' ritual, officiated by a shaman or mumbaki, is a pre-colonial ritual that involves animal sacrifice, healing, announcing the birth of a child, weddings, and burial ceremonies. It is a part of the cultural practices of the indigenous people in the Philippines.

What is the 'Kashawing' ritual, and what does it signify in the indigenous culture of the Philippines?

The 'Kashawing' is a ritual performed in Lake Landau, Mindanao, to ensure the abundance of rice during planting and harvesting seasons. The indigenous people believe that performing this ritual and dance will lead to a bountiful harvest.

What are some traditional musical instruments of the Philippines mentioned in the script?

Some traditional musical instruments of the Philippines mentioned in the script include the Kojiapi, Gaban, Caban, Agung, Kulintang, and Bamboo Flute.

What is the significance of the 'Pangala' dance from the Sulu Archipelago?

The 'Pangala' dance from the Sulu Archipelago is significant as it imitates the movements of a sea bird, showcasing the connection between the indigenous people and their natural environment.

What is the historical significance of the 'Anito' sculpture from Caldera?

The 'Anito' sculpture from Caldera is historically significant as it represents a granary god and serves as a reflection of the indigenous people's belief system and their reverence for their deities.

What is the oldest known terracotta jar in the Philippines, and where was it found?

The oldest known terracotta jar in the Philippines is the 'Manunggul Jar,' which was found in the Manunggal Cave in Lipu Point, Palawan, dating back to 890 to 710 BC.

What are the 'Boxer Codex' and its significance in the context of Philippine textiles and weaving?

The 'Boxer Codex' is a 16th-century document that provides identification of Filipino people, showcasing the upper class Tagalog and the Visayan people known as 'Pintados.' It is significant as it illustrates the traditional textiles and weaving styles of the time, reflecting the cultural and social distinctions of the period.