Latest news with #NationalMuseumofthePhilippines
GMA Network
11 hours ago
- Entertainment
- GMA Network
National Museum of the Philippines loans Juan Luna's 'Una Bulaqueña' to Louvre Abu Dhabi
The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) has loaned Juan Luna's 'Una Bulaqueña' to the Louvre Abu Dhabi (LAD) in the United Arab Emirates, where it will be displayed until June 2026. According to NMP's post on Facebook, the loan is the first direct collaboration between the two museums, 'signalling a major milestone in the cultural dialogue between the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates.' The unveiling ceremony was attended by His Excellency Chairman of LAD Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak; Ambassador of the Philippines in the UAE His Excellency Alfonso A. Ver; and Deputy Director-General of the NMP Jorell M. Legaspi. Al Mubarak said LAD commits to promoting universality and global cultural exchange. 'With this display of 'Una Bulaqueña,' Abu Dhabi audiences will have the opportunity to discover a great deal about its cultural and art historical context, thereby learning more about the rich and fascinating history of the Philippines,' he said. Ver added that this strengthens the relations between the Philippines and the UAE. 'This significant cultural exchange reflects our shared commitment to fostering understanding and cooperation through art.' LAD director Manuel Rabaté said they're "deeply honored to bring this treasured masterpiece to the Arab world for the first time." He described 'Una Bulaqueña' as a representation of the heritage and identity of the Filipino people. "This exceptional loan strengthens our universal narrative by placing Southeast Asia's voice at the heart of our global dialogue." "Una Bulaqueña," also called "La Bulaqueña," is Luna's painting of a Filipino woman from Bulacan dressed in traditional attire. According to the Cultural Center of the Philippines Encyclopedia of Philippine Art, the woman in the portrait is Emiliana Yriarte Trinidad, who was less than 17 years old when she posed for the painting. She is 'a comely Filipina from an elite provincial family," depicted full figure in the formal dress of the time. 'Her contemplative gaze and upright posture speak volumes about the grace and strength of a Filipina,' NMP added on Facebook. 'The artwork also reflects Luna's mastery of merging the European art traditions of his time with the distinct dynamism of Filipino identity.' The painting survived World War II and was declared a National Cultural Treasure in 2008. It was sold to the NMP in World War II for 200 in Japanese military notes, according to the CCP. —Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News
Gulf Today
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Louvre hosts cultural treasure ‘Una Bulaquena' of Philippines
Representative of the iron will of a people found in every corner of the world, an oil painting of a 16-year-old elitista provincial lass is now on display at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. This is the 185X87 centimetre rendition of Emiliana Yriarte Trinidad (January 4, 1878-March 22, 1971) by no less than her art instructor, Juan Luna (October 25, 1857-December 7, 1899), completed in 1895; known as 'Una Bulaquena' or 'La Bulaquena.' That was 11 years after Luna – older brother of another Philippine hero, General Antonio Luna (October 29, 1866-June 5, 1899) – won the grand prize at the 1884 Exposicion Nacional de Bellas Artes in Madrid, Spain for his 'La Spolarium,' a mockery on the Spanish conquest of his motherland, featuring dying gladiators. Alongside other scions of wealthy Filipino and Philippine-born Spaniards in Europe, the elder art student Luna, propagated for liberty from Spain. Unveiled last Monday in the presence of Department of Culture and Tourism/Louvre Abu Dhabi chairman Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak and Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand Ver, the painting, which Trinidad herself sold to a 'very influential art collector' at the pre-stages of World War II, is the second to be loaned to the museum. 'It is a continuity of relationship with the Philippines that began several years ago. It came from the necessity to have a beautiful artwork representing Filipino culture, supported by the Philippine Embassy,' Louvre Abu Dhabi director Manuel Rabate told Gulf Today. It was in 2022 when the Ayala Museum brought to Louvre Abu Dhabi from among its gold artifacts collection, a funerary mask from Butuan, Agusan del Norte and a cup from Nabua, Camarines Sur, dating 10th to 13th centuries -- still on exhibit. According to National Museum of the Philippines deputy director general Jorelle Legaspi, the one-year-stay of 'Una Bulaquena' in the UAE is historic. It is the first time that this 2008-declared National Cultural Treasure of the Philippines would be shared globally through another country. Related Legaspi: 'Emiliana Yriarte Trinidad had the foresight to sell her portrait to a very influential art collector, actually the National Museum of the Philippines in the 1940s.' Leafing through the archives of the museum that began operating in 1901, Legaspi said 'Una Bulaquena' escaped from the near obliteration of Manila, a consequence of the city's 1944-1945 liberation from the Japanese Imperial Army by the American forces, as 'that art collector' decided to have Malacanang, the Presidential Palace, as its repository. ''Una Bulaquena' still exists because of Emiliana's willpower to protect it from the war. Many of our best collections, works of art, and national treasures were lost or destroyed during the Battle of Manila. Both are a story of a strong, independent woman, of quiet confidence, of survival and resilience. It was not until 1986 that the National Museum was able to retrieve the painting and put it under it care within the museum itself,' Legaspi said. On the possibility that Louvre Abu Dhabi be the temporary home of other Filipino masterpieces, Rabate said: 'We showcase the connection of cultures. We are always sensitive to moments in the history of art where there is an encounter between different identities. This painting reflects that, highlighting the Western influence that is also part of Juan's legacy, while also speaking deeply about Filipino identity. We will have other partnerships, whether in permanent galleries or temporary exhibitions. The 'Asian Roads of Exchange' is a key project in 2026.' On the possibility that the National Museum of the Philippines would also host UAE artifacts and treasures, Legaspi said: 'We are definitely open to the idea. Whenever we have a museum-to-museum partnership, it is always important that we can provide the same care as what our partner would expect. We are working very hard towards that.' Ambassador Ver said 'Una Bulaquena' in the UAE 'is a testament to the expanding relations, not only through labour migration, but to the strengthening of bilateral ties, in different and previously untapped fields.' From Abu Dhabu-based multi-awarded artist-musician Sky Biscocho: 'It is always a joy and honour when artists' works are showcased internationally.' From Dubai-based gallerist Carlo Garrido: 'It was a powerful, emotional moment when I saw it. It shines a spotlight on the world class artistry we bring to the global stage.'
Filipino Times
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Filipino Times
Juan Luna's ‘Una Bulaqueña' now on display at Louvre Abu Dhabi
Filipino painter Juan Luna's iconic artwork, 'Una Bulaqueña,' is now on display at Louvre Abu Dhabi. The famous oil painting, showing a young woman from Bulacan in traditional Filipino dress, is part of the museum's permanent galleries and will be on view for a year, until June 2026. This is the first direct collaboration between Louvre Abu Dhabi and the National Museum of the Philippines, marking stronger cultural ties between the UAE and the Philippines. From left: Manuel Rabaté, Director of Louvre Abu Dhabi; Mr. Jorell M. Legaspi, Deputy Director-General of the National Museum of the Philippines; H.E. Alfonso A. Ver, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE; Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Louvre Abu Dhabi; and Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani، Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism His Excellency Alfonso A. Ver, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, said the display of Una Bulaqueña proves how strong the friendship is between the two nations. 'The loan of Una Bulaqueña, a National Cultural Treasure painting by Juan Luna, shows the ever-deepening and dynamic bilateral relations of the two countries. This significant cultural exchange reflects our shared commitment to fostering understanding and cooperation through art. The Philippine Embassy is truly honored to witness this momentous occasion and reaffirms its commitment to promoting cultural dialogue between the Philippines and the UAE,' Ambassador Ver said. Meanwhile, Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Louvre Abu Dhabi, said the painting's presence reflects the museum's mission to connect cultures worldwide. 'With this display of Una Bulaqueña, Abu Dhabi audiences will have the opportunity to discover a great deal about its cultural and art historical context, thereby learning more about the rich and fascinating history of the Philippines,' Al Mubarak said during the unveiling ceremony. Painted in 1895 and declared a National Cultural Treasure in 2008, Una Bulaqueña mixes European art with Filipino identity during Spanish rule. The painting is displayed between Auguste Renoir's 'La Tasse de Chocolat' and Edouard Manet's 'The Bohemian,' adding a Southeast Asian piece to the museum's portrait collection. Manuel Rabaté, Director of Louvre Abu Dhabi, said the artwork supports the museum's goal to tell stories from different cultures. 'At Louvre Abu Dhabi, we are deeply honored to bring this treasured masterpiece to the Arab world for the first time, in collaboration with the National Museum of the Philippines. Juan Luna's painting, with its quiet dignity and rootedness in Filipino heritage, resonates deeply with our mission as the cultural flagship of the UAE—to tell stories that cross borders, uphold identity, and expand understanding through art,' he said. Jorell Legaspi, Deputy Director-General for Museums of the National Museum of the Philippines, shared that lending Una Bulaqueña makes the National Museum both sentimental and proud. 'We are heartened by the thought that this painting will bring a sense of familiarity and belonging to thousands of Filipinos across the United Arab Emirates and the greater Middle East,' Legaspi said. Una Bulaqueña survived the turmoil of World War II and was safeguarded by the National Museum of the Philippines, making its arrival at Louvre Abu Dhabi both an artistic highlight and a historical milestone.
Al Etihad
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Louvre Abu Dhabi welcomes National Cultural Treasure of Philippines ‘Una Bulaqueña'
17 June 2025 15:06 ABU DHABI (WAM) Louvre Abu Dhabi and the National Museum of the Philippines announced the unveiling of Una Bulaqueña, an iconic oil painting by Filipino artist Juan Luna, within the museum's permanent unveiling ceremony was attended by Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Louvre Abu Dhabi, alongside Alfonso A. Ver, Ambassador of the Philippines in the UAE and, Mr. Jorell M. Legaspi, Deputy Director-General of the National Museum of the historic event marks the museum's first direct collaboration with the National Museum of the Philippines and underscores a growing cultural dialogue between the two a National Cultural Treasure in 2008, Una Bulaqueña is an exceptional loan and a rare display of the masterpiece outside of the Philippines. The artwork will remain on view at Louvre Abu Dhabi for one year, offering visitors a profound insight into Filipino identity, history, and artistic Mubarak said, 'The showcasing of this very special artwork at Louvre Abu Dhabi is a testament to the museum's vision of universality and global cultural exchange. Culture is what connects us, highlighting our shared humanity and fostering greater understanding between diverse people and societies around the globe. With this display of Una Bulaqueña, Abu Dhabi audiences will have the opportunity to discover a great deal about its cultural and art historical context, thereby learning more about the rich and fascinating history of the Philippines.'Alfonso A. Ver highlighted the event as a testament to the strengthening of the bilateral relations between the Philippines and the UAE."The loan of Una Bulaqueña, a National Cultural Treasure painting by Juan Luna, shows the ever-deepening and dynamic bilateral relations of the two significant cultural exchange reflects our shared commitment to fostering understanding and cooperation through art. The Philippine Embassy is truly honoured to witness this momentous occasion and reaffirms its commitment to promoting cultural dialogue between the Philippines and the UAE," Ambassador Ver by Juan Luna, one of the Philippines' most celebrated artists, Una Bulaqueña reflects his unique ability to merge European academic traditions with a deep sense of Filipino identity. Created in 1895 during the Spanish occupation of the Philippines, this masterpiece captures a poised young Filipina woman from Bulacan—a province known for its wealth, cultural refinement, and strong nationalist in traditional attire—camisa, saya (long skirt), pañuelo (neck cover), and tapis (knee-length overskirt)—the subject holds a fan and handkerchief, visual cues of dignity and social stature that reflect Spanish colonial contemplative gaze and upright posture speak volumes about the pride, grace, and strength of the Filipino spirit. Luna's choice to centre a Filipina—rather than a European noblewoman—challenges conventional notions of artistic hierarchy and reclaims representation during a time of colonial painting's presence at Louvre Abu Dhabi strengthens the museum's commitment to cultural between Auguste Renoir's La Tasse de Chocolat (Cup of Chocolate), which features another enigmatic female figure, and Edouard Manet's The Bohemian, Una Bulaqueña broadens the gallery's display of modernity and Rabaté, Director of Louvre Abu Dhabi, said, 'Una Bulaqueña is more than a portrait—it is a powerful symbol of national identity and cultural pride. At Louvre Abu Dhabi, we are deeply honoured to bring this treasured masterpiece to the Arab world for the first time, in collaboration with the National Museum of the Luna's painting, with its quiet dignity and rootedness in Filipino heritage, resonates deeply with our mission as the cultural flagship of the UAE—to tell stories that cross borders, uphold identity, and expand understanding through exceptional loan strengthens our universal narrative by placing Southeast Asia's voice at the heart of our global dialogue.'Meanwhile, Jorell Legaspi, Deputy Director-General for Museums of the National Museum of the Philippines, said, "While we at the National Museum feel a measure of wistfulness as we part with this beloved painting for the time being, the opportunity to share it with the diverse and vibrant audience of Abu Dhabi brings far greater city, a global crossroads of ideas and cultures, offers a fitting setting for the appreciation of Luna's genius—and of the broader contributions of Southeast Asian and Filipino art to the world's cultural heritage. Beyond this, we are heartened by the thought that this painting will bring a sense of familiarity and belonging to thousands of Filipinos across the United Arab Emirates and the greater Middle East."Una Bulaqueña was acquired by the National Museum of the Philippines and safeguarded through the tumultuous period of World War II, making its arrival in Abu Dhabi both an artistic and historic milestone. This remarkable oil painting will remain on display at Louvre Abu Dhabi until June 2026, providing visitors a unique opportunity to experience this masterpiece firsthand.
GMA Network
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- GMA Network
Legacy of Cebuano painter revisited on Int'l Museum Day
The National Museum of the Philippines - Cebu has put the spotlight on Cebuano painter Martino Abellana on International Museum Day 2025. His life and works were remembered through a lecture series and expert talk by University of the Philippines - Cebu Asst. Prof. Jay Nathan Jore. In 'Dagway sa Hulagway, Laraw sa Larawan,' which tackled the pre-Abellana stage to the Abellana stage, Jore talked about the genius and enduring legacy of 'Maestro Tinong.' Jore talked about Abellana's beginnings to formalize art education and academic fine arts, his technique and artistry (mastery of nature and its colors to his modernist experimental theory), his pedagogical contribution, and his desire and enthusiasm to teach art and being very proud of his students. It was reportedly important for Abellana to share his knowledge and art to aspiring Cebuano artists at that time. What was important for him, Jore emphasized, was the 'desire and enthusiasm to become an artist and then to follow it up with hard work.' Jore also emphasized how Abellana's works endeavored to capture the diversity of human emotions and human conditions - from the beautiful to the ugly, to the young and old age, as well as the realities of human life. According to the National Museum of the Philippines - Cebu, the Martino Abellana Lecture Series (Ang Mga Sugilanon ni Maestro Tinong) was born from its landmark 2023 exhibition, 'Ang Kamamugnaon ug Kinaadman ni Maestro Tinong,' and stands as a continuing tribute to the enduring legacy of the Dean of Cebuano Painters. 'This series is part of our deepening commitment to honor and share the life and work of Noy Tinong, while supporting the growing movement for his national recognition and nomination to the Order of National Artists for Visual Arts,' the museum said. This campaign was launched officially on February 7, 2025, in partnership with CIT University and University of the Philippines - Cebu - institutions where Abellana mentored his earliest students, many of whom have gone on to become prominent figures in the contemporary art scene. 'Through this lecture series, we continue to bring his artistry closer to the public and carry forward the momentum of his story as a pillar of Cebuano and Philippine art,' the museum said. Guided by the ICOM theme 'The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,' the 2025 International Museum Day challenges museums to reflect on their role not just as guardians of the past but as active participants in shaping resilient, responsive, and inclusive futures.
