PROPERTY FROM THE JOSE MA. OSSORIO COLLECTION

ABOUT THE WORK

Light has been a significant element in Fernando Amorsolo’s oeuvre, a product of his knowledge and organization of colors. The light from his concocted sun graced his paintings, creating an illusion of warmth that envelops the landscapes and the townsfolk in their daily activities. Amorsolo’s palette, characterized by bright and lyrical attributes, is a testament to his skill as a master colorist. Like any of his works, Fire Tree immortalizes the timeless beauty of nature and the serene countryside life. This 1959 piece captures the magnificent facade of the Santa Maria Church in Ilocos Sur, a structure that withstood the test of time. One of the long-standing and impressively made Spanish-era Baroque Churches of the Philippines, the Santa Maria Church was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site on December 11, 1993. Amorsolo’s vivid hues bring to life a typical Sunday morning scene in Santa Maria. A flock of church-goers can be seen coming out of the admirable edifice; some are walking down the stairs, and some are already down. At the bottom of the stairs, a makeshift market in a nipa hut is bustling with vendors and buyers. The titular fire tree adorned the canvas with its vibrant orange hue, adding a feeling of warmth and liveliness that envelops the entire image in a comforting embrace. A cultural phenomenon in his lifetime, Amorsolo had a unique ability to turn any blank canvas into a buoyant image of his beloved country and compatriots. His genre and historical paintings not only offer appealing landscapes and portraits but also elicit a great sense of belonging to the Filipino nation. Amorsolo’s unparalleled artistry and his profound influence on the Philippine art scene continue to inspire and instill a deep sense of national pride, making his work a source of inspiration for all Filipinos. (Jessica Magno)