How Art Started in the History of Philippines?

Art|Art History

The history of art in the Philippines dates back to pre-colonial times. It has evolved over the centuries to become an integral part of Filipino culture and identity.

The earliest evidence of art in the Philippines is found in the ancient burial sites and rock art found in caves throughout the country. These artifacts date back to as early as 8000 BC.

The earliest known works of art were made by hunter-gatherers who lived in the jungles and used natural materials such as wood, stone, and clay to create sculptures, masks, and other objects. These artifacts display a variety of motifs that depict animals, plants, and abstract shapes.

The arrival of Austronesian people in the Philippines around 3000 BC brought with them new forms of art such as pottery making and weaving. Pottery making appears to have been especially popular among the ancient Filipinos who produced a variety of ceramic vessels with distinctive designs that can still be seen today. Weaving was also important during this period and many pieces of cloth were made with intricate patterns using natural dyes.

The arrival of Islam in the 13th century changed Filipino art dramatically as it introduced new forms such as calligraphy, miniatures, architecture, and metalwork. Most notably, Islamic influence can be seen in many existing mosques throughout the country which feature intricate geometric designs on their walls and ceilings.

The Spanish colonization from 1521 onward had a significant impact on Philippine culture including its visual arts scene. The church played an important role during this period by introducing Catholic subjects such as saints into paintings which were usually done on wooden panels or canvas using oil paints or tempera paint.

This style of painting was later adopted by local artists who incorporated various elements from their own culture into their works creating a unique form of art known today as “Filipinismo” which is characterized by its vivid colors and dynamic compositions.

Conclusion: Art has been an integral part of Filipino culture for centuries with influences from both pre-colonial times and foreign forces like Spanish colonialism contributing to its evolution over time. Today, Filipino artists continue to draw inspiration from traditional motifs as well as contemporary subjects creating a unique form that reflects both past influences and modern sensibilities.