Fernando Amorsolo is known as the Grand Old Man of Philippine Art. He was the first National Artist of the Philippines.
Fernando Amorsolo was born on May 30, 1892, and he passed away on April 24, 1972, He was one of the most important artists in the history of painting in the Philippines. Amorsolo was a portraitist and painter of rural Philippine landscapes. He is popularly known for his craftsmanship and mastery of the use of light.
Remembering the life and works of National Artist Fernando C. Amorsolo on his 51st death anniversary. (April 24, 1972)
Fernando V. Amorsolo was the first National Artist, with the official title “Grand Old Man of the Philippine Art”. He developed the backlighting technique that became his trademark where figures – a cluster of leaves, spill of hair, the swell of breast – are seen aglow on canvas. His citation underscores all his years of creative activity which have “defined and perpetuated a distinct element of the nation’s artistic and cultural heritage”. His major works include ‘Maiden in a Stream’, ‘El Ciego’, ‘Dalagang Bukid’, ‘The Mestiza’, ‘Planting Rice’, ‘Sunday Morning Going to Tow’, ‘Antipolo Fiesta’ and ‘Afternoon Meals of Rice Workers’.
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