A Plea for Freedom from Fear

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A Plea for Freedom from FearFermin Gomez1949 “A Plea for Freedom from Fear” is a hauntingly evocative sculpture by the esteemed Fermin Gomez (1918-1984), capturing the raw emotional landscape of the Philippines during the Japanese Occupation. The artwork, completed four years post-occupation, depicts a mother in agony, clutching her baby, while two children seek refuge … Read more

Upaya

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Upaya It’s also Pardon Day, and coincidentally, the image of the Santo Cristo del Perdón accompanies the Virgen de los Remedios, the Patroness of Pampanga whose feast day is celebrated today. Here’s the Kapampángan word for “power, authority” and the root word for “pardon”! UPÁYÂ • (oo-PAH-ya’)power, authority; pardonTagálog (Filipino): kapangyaríhan EtymologyFrom Sanskrit उपाय (upāya) … Read more

Sanikulas Festival

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Sanikulas FestivalSeptember 10Mexico, Pampanga Every September 10 during the feast of St. Nicholas of Tolentino, the town of Mexico, Pampanga holds the Sanikulas Festival in honor of the saint and his image-bearing miraculous namesake cookies. The Kapampángan towns of Macabebe (Pampanga) and Capas (Tarlac) also have St. Nicholas of Tolentino as their patron saint and … Read more

Mother and Child by Napoleon Abueva

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Mother and ChildNapoleon AbuevaAdobe (volcani tuff), 1950 Napoleon Abueva, the “Father of Modern Philippine Sculpture”, created “Mother and Child” exemplifying his innovative and versatile style. This sculpture, rendered in a modernist approach, captures the intimate bond and maternal affection central to Filipino culture. With fluid lines and smooth surfaces, Abueva’s work blends traditional Filipino elements … Read more

Madre Filipinas

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Madre FilipinasIsabelo Tampinco y LacandolaConcrete, circa 1920-1930 Isabelo Tampinco’s “Madre Filipinas,” crafted in concrete circa 1920-1930s, symbolizes the Philippines as the motherland. Made in concrete, an innovative and durable material for that time, Tampinco created a piece that embodies national pride and cultural heritage, showcasing his skill and willingness to experiment with different mediums. Born … Read more