In 1886, Jose Rizal, a hero yearning for his homeland while studying in Germany, penned “To the Flowers of Heidelberg.” This poem captured a uniquely Filipino ache – the poignant melancholy of distance, a feeling intimately known by those who venture beyond Philippine shores in search of a life anew.
The pursuit of opportunity and discovery has driven Filipinos to move not just between islands, but across continents. Now, an exhibition titled “Sown by the Traveler: Women and Migrants in Philippine Art” powerfully illuminates the contributions of these individuals, showcasing their stories through the lens of art.
Held at the UP Visayas Museum of Art and Cultural Heritage in Iloilo City, the exhibit features a compelling collection of paintings from the Lopez Museum and Library. Works by Macario Vitalis, Alfonso Ossorio, Anita Magsaysay-Ho, Nena Saguil, Fernando Zobel, and Juvenal Sansó offer a profound exploration of the migrant experience.
Curator Patrick Flores describes the exhibition’s title as reflecting the Filipino desire to imbue the world with the essence of home. He explains that this longing is beautifully symbolized by flowers – emblems of nature that transcend borders and connect distant lands.
Each artist featured carried the imprint of extended periods spent abroad: Zobel in Spain, Ossorio in the US, Vitalis, Sansó, and Saguil in France, and Magsaysay-Ho in both the US and Hong Kong. These experiences profoundly shaped their artistic vision and infused their work with a unique perspective.
This exhibition builds upon a previous collaboration between the Lopez Foundation and UP Visayas, which showcased the works of Juan Luna, Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo, Fernando Amorsolo, and Juan Arellano. However, this new presentation offers a distinct and compelling contrast.
Flores notes that “Sown by the Traveler” moves beyond the traditional, often patriarchal narratives of Philippine art, and transcends the limitations of national boundaries. It presents a more inclusive and globally-minded perspective.
Visitors will have the opportunity to examine two to three paintings from each artist, allowing for a rich comparison of their individual styles and shared sensibilities. The exhibit invites a deeper understanding of how migration influenced their creative expression.
The exhibition also serves as a tribute to Iloilo, a place deeply rooted in the Lopez family’s history. It’s a gesture of gratitude and a reaffirmation of their commitment to sharing the nation’s cultural heritage with the community.
Martin G. Genodepa, director of UPV’s office of initiatives for culture and the arts, emphasizes the museum’s role as a vibrant center for art and culture in Western Visayas, welcoming visitors from across the Philippines.
Through its Filipiniana collection – encompassing artworks, books, manuscripts, and artifacts spanning centuries – the Lopez Museum and Library aims to foster deeper connections and empathy among Filipinos. “Sown by the Traveler” is a powerful step in that direction.
The exhibition remains on view at the UP Visayas Museum of Art and Cultural Heritage in Iloilo City until May 8th, offering a moving and insightful exploration of the Filipino experience of migration through the captivating power of art.
