Carlos
"Botong"
Francisco
Who is Carlos
"Botong" Francisco?
Carlos "Botong" Francisco was a renowned Filipino artist known for his contribution to Philippine modern art. He was born in Angono, Rizal, Philippines and is widely regarded as one of the most important Filipino artists of the 20th century.
Botong Francisco's works often depicted Filipino themes and culture, and he was known for his skill in creating large-scale murals. Some of his most famous works include the "History of Manila" mural at the Manila City Hall, the "Filipino Struggles Through History" mural at the Bulwagang Katipunan in the University of the Philippines, and the "Progress of Medicine in the Philippines" mural at the Philippine General Hospital.
Botong Francisco received numerous awards and recognitions for his contributions to Philippine art, including the Republic Cultural Heritage Award in 1966 and the National Artist Award in 1973, several years after his death. His works continue to be celebrated and exhibited in various art galleries and museums in the Philippines and around the world.
Some of his works are
"The First Mass at Limasawa"
This mural is part of a series at the National Museum of Fine Arts in Manila that showcases key moments in Philippine history. It depicts the first Christian mass held in the Philippines, which took place on the island of Limasawa in 1521.
"Filipino Struggles Through History"
This mural, which measures over 18 meters in length, is located at the lobby of the Social Security System (SSS) building in Quezon City. It depicts significant events in Philippine history, including the arrival of the Spanish colonizers and the Philippine Revolution.
"The Martyrdom of Rizal"
This mural, which measures over 4 meters in height, is located at the Rizal Shrine in Fort Santiago, Manila. It depicts the execution of Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal, by Spanish authorities in 1896.
WHAT MADE HIM A NATIONAL ARTIST?
Carlos "Botong" Francisco was recognized as a National Artist of the Philippines for his significant contributions to Philippine modern art, his unique style that incorporated traditional Filipino themes and cultural elements, and his role in promoting Philippine art and culture.
WHAT IMPACT DID THIS NATIONAL ARTIST BRING TO YOU AS A YOUTH AND AS A FILIPINO CITIZEN IN GENERAL?
As a Filipino youth, Carlos "Botong" Francisco had a significant impact not only on me but also to others who are interested in art and culture. As a mentor and teacher, he inspired many younger artists and helped them develop their skills and artistic vision.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS NATIONAL ARTIST?
I chose Carlos "Botong" Francisco because of his unique style, which incorporated traditional Filipino themes and cultural elements, his works also had a lasting impact on Philippine art. His works celebrated the country's history, traditions, and way of life, and helped promote a sense of national pride and identity among Filipinos.