ABOUT THE WORK

Connecting Myth and History — Carlos “Botong” Francisco mixes an astonishing variety of religious, folk and traditional imagery as well as social and political influences in his work. The result is a range of powerful paintings and assemblages that bring the history of the Philippines into sharp focus. Carlos Botong Francisco celebrated not only country scenes but also vital events in Philippine history. The creation of the first man and the first woman stepping out of their bamboo hollows, pre-Magellan tribesmen, the Spanish soldiers of the Conquista, friar power, Lapu Lapu, The Blood Compact, The Manila Galleon, The British Occupation, the Ilustrado leaders of the Propaganda Movement, Francisco Balagtas writing his epic poem, Bonifacio and the Katipuneros, and many, many more. The watercolor composition is characterized by sustained vigor and ingenious inventiveness, as in the choice of dramatis personae representing not only renowned persons but also character types, unifying all ions a flowing narrative scene. The figures are unified not merely by token gestures and glances but by their common interest in an event taking place within the composition. Botong arranges the figures in distinct and yet related groups, as well as the value of subtly revealing the solemn emotions of participants through their gestures and expressions. The meticulous attention for detail (especially the costume of the conquistador at right) was not without its own authoritative acumen, for Botong was steeped in the customs and folklore of the Philippines.