March 22, 2024 – Tomorrow marks the unveiling of “Maragtason,” an art exhibition set to captivate audiences with its portrayal of Philippine history through the eyes of Fine Arts students. Hosted at The ARFIEN Art Gallery, the event promises a journey through time, highlighting pivotal events, influential figures, and enduring belief systems that have shaped the nation.
The exhibition will showcase a diverse array of artworks created by selected Fine Arts students, handpicked by their professors. Spanning various mediums including drawings, paintings, mixed media, photography, and 3D art, these pieces promise to offer a multifaceted exploration of Philippine history. Each artwork is a testament to the creativity, skill, and unique perspectives of the artists, providing audiences with an immersive experience that invites reflection and dialogue.
Derived from the word “maragtas,” meaning story or history, the exhibition aims to fulfill the objectives set forth by CHED Memorandum Order 43 series of 2017. This mandate calls for Higher Education Institutions to nurture artists and designers who not only demonstrate technical proficiency but also exhibit a profound understanding of Filipino values, commitment to nation-building, and a heightened awareness of Philippine society and culture.
In anticipation of the event, Sr. Joan Brigida Corazon S. Infante, OSA, President of LCC Bacolod, shared her insights into the significance of “Maragtason.” “As an institution committed to holistic education, we believe in the transformative power of the arts to convey our shared history and identity as Filipinos,” she remarked. “Through ‘Maragtason,’ our Fine Arts students demonstrate their creativity, critical thinking, and deep-seated commitment to preserving and celebrating our cultural heritage.”
Gallery Curator Mr. Edmund Bacia echoed Sr. Infante’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of historical themes in contemporary art. “Art has always been a reflection of society, and ‘Maragtason’ offers a unique opportunity for us to revisit our past, interrogate our present, and envision our future,” he stated. “By engaging with Philippine history through the medium of art, these students not only hone their artistic skills but also contribute to a broader dialogue about identity, memory, and nationhood.”
Historical themes serve as the cornerstone for creative expression in “Maragtason,” providing a platform for students to delve into the rich tapestry of the nation’s heritage. From the enlightenment era to the 19th century, historical paintings were revered as the pinnacle of artistic achievement, offering profound insights into pivotal moments in history.
For the participating artists, the creation of historically themed artworks is more than a creative endeavor—it is a contribution to nation-building. Echoing the sentiments of past visionaries, these students imagine a nation worthy of their artistic prowess, using their talents to inspire and educate.
“Maragtason” serves as a platform for introspection and dialogue, inviting audiences to engage with the past, present, and future of the Philippines through the lens of art. By grounding themselves in historical and socio-cultural contexts, Fine Arts students aim to invigorate their creative spirit, foster a deeper understanding of truth, and spark meaningful conversations that transcend generations.