The late National Artist Abdulmari Imao’s last painting, “Muslims in the Philippines”.
If you love art, and you want to witness history in the making, head on over to to the Gateway Gallery at the Gateway Mall at the Araneta Center in Cubao, to witness a one-of-a-kind exhibit, the first of its kind in the whole world, created by some of the nation’s finest artists, including National Artists Bencab and the late Abdulmari Imao, whose last piece is part of the exhibit.
SiningSaysay is a grand project, an iconic Philippine treasure led by an all-UP team made up of artists, professors, and historians, and an ambitious undertaking that took 5 years to complete. Evidently, it is worth the wait, as the fine works of art are definitely made for the books.
Located at the Gateway Gallery, also known as the largest private art gallery in the country, visitors are treated to literally, a walk through history, as they pass through all 29 murals that illustrate the country’s milestones. Start all the way from the first sign of man, to pre-colonial Philippines and Magellan’s subsequent arrival, all the way to Martial Law and the rise of Manny Pacquiao, and everything else in between, all depicted in vibrant masterpieces.
Every step made is breathtaking, walking through the halls with these inspired paintings.
Each art work reflects the style of not just the artist, but of also the time period depicted in each frame. This exhibit comes to life with the larger-than-life sizes, and the bright and evocative creations.
The exhibit aims to bring the art closer to the people and to the public, as an offering to the nation. But more importantly, it aims to continuously spark a discussion about history and our country for generations to come. It’s a great way to educate the public, especially the youth, about the historical moments about our nation in an artistic and entertaining form.
SiningSaysay features the works of artists Adonai Artificio, Armand Bacaltos, Adi Baen-Santos, Grandier Bella, Benjie Cabangis, Bencab, Angel Cacnio, Romeo Carlos, Cris Cruz, Denes Dasco, Gig De Pio, Simkin De Pio, Vincent De Pio, Neil Doloricon, Norman Dreo, Amado Hidalgo, Abdul Asia Mari Imao, Ben Infante, Gigi Javier-Alfonso, Aileen Lanuza, Romeo Mananquil, Norlie Meimban, Julius Samson, Jonahmar Salvosa, Randy Solon, Michael Velasco, Jun Yee, and Janice Young.
There has never been a finer marriage of art and local history.
The SiningSaysay: Philippine History in Art will officially open its doors to the public on February 19, everyday from 11 AM to 7 PM.
SiningSaysay: Philippine History in Art
February 19 onwards, open from 11 AM to 7 PM
Gateway Gallery, 5th floor Gateway Mall, Araneta Center, Cubao
