What are the three major traditions of Philippine art?



The development of Philippine Art comes in three major traditions:

  • Indigenous or Pre-colonial Art – This tradition refers to the art created by the various indigenous groups in the Philippines prior to the arrival of the Spanish colonizers. Examples of indigenous art include the intricate weaving patterns of the Ifugao, the intricate carvings of the Maranao, and the intricate pottery of the Tagalog.
  • Spanish Colonial Art – This tradition refers to the art that was created during the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines, from the 16th century to the 19th century. Spanish colonial art includes religious art such as sculptures, paintings, and religious items.
  • Modern and Contemporary Art – This tradition refers to the art created during and after the American colonial period in the Philippines. Modern and contemporary art in the Philippines is characterized by a fusion of Western and indigenous styles and includes painting, sculpture, printmaking, and performance art.

What are the 3 Philippine contemporary art forms?

There are many contemporary art forms in the Philippines, but here are three major ones:

  • Visual Arts – This includes painting, sculpture, installation art, and performance art. Contemporary visual artists in the Philippines draw on both traditional and modern techniques and themes, often reflecting on the country’s political and social realities.
  • Literature – Contemporary Philippine literature includes works in various forms such as poetry, fiction, essays, and plays. Many contemporary writers explore themes related to the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage, its colonial history, and its modern-day challenges.
  • Film – The Philippine film industry has gained recognition in recent years for its vibrant and diverse output. Contemporary Philippine cinema is characterized by a mix of commercial and independent films that tackle a wide range of themes, from romance to politics, and often reflect the country’s unique cultural identity.

What are the traditions of the Filipino?

Filipino traditions are diverse and deeply ingrained in the country’s history and culture. Here are some examples of Filipino traditions:

  • Family values – Filipinos place a high value on family relationships and kinship. This is reflected in the close-knit extended families, where respect for elders and the care of the younger members are highly valued.
  • Religious traditions – The Philippines is a predominantly Catholic country, and religious traditions play a significant role in Filipino culture. Catholicism was brought to the Philippines by the Spanish colonizers in the 16th century and has since become a part of the Filipino identity.
  • Festivals and celebrations – Filipinos love to celebrate, and there are many festivals and celebrations throughout the year. These events often involve colorful parades, music, dance, and food, and are a way for Filipinos to showcase their cultural heritage and express their joy and gratitude.
  • Food and cuisine – Filipino cuisine is a blend of indigenous, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences, reflecting the country’s long history of colonization and trade. Filipino food is known for its bold flavors and use of exotic ingredients, such as balut (a boiled fertilized duck egg) and dinuguan (a stew made with pig’s blood).
  • Hospitality – Filipinos are known for their warmth and hospitality, and visitors to the Philippines are often welcomed with open arms. This tradition of hospitality is deeply ingrained in Filipino culture, and visitors are often treated as family.




Other Filipino Traditions:

  • Competitive Karaoke.
  • Bayanihan.
  • Fiestas.
  • Four-month Christmas.
  • Filipinos love to eat. . . and drink!