Celebrate ‘Araw ng Kagitingan’ via an eye-opening virtual tour of our history
Tomorrow, April 9, we commemorate the Fall of Bataan during World War II, otherwise known as the Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor). Coincidentally, we are also now at war with a dreaded coronavirus that as of this writing has claimed the lives of over 83,000 people all over the world.
While we take the necessary precautionary steps to contain the spread of COVID-19 virus through an enhanced community quarantine, Google Arts & Culture takes us on a virtual tour tackling relevant parts of our history, as well as pressing issues today. Currently, there are over 9,000 pieces of local art by Filipino art groups and individuals on the website. Here are some collections you can view:
The historical battle of Bataan
One of the pivotal moments in local history is the Battle of Bataan in 1942, which represented the Japanese invasion of the Philippine islands during World War II. This online collection features more than 100 photographs that capture soldiers in action including the arrival of General MacArthur and the famed Bataan Death March. Filipinos commemorate this historical moment on Araw ng Kagitingan every April 9th.
A close look at The Filipino Story
Aside from the Battle of Bataan, the Philippines has endured numerous trials and hardships that shaped the society today. This collection from Ayala Museum and Singapore National Heritage Board includes artworks that depict past events to showcase how much the country has been through. Among the collections are the Proclamation of Independence in Cavite, the Japanese Occupation in Manila, and the Return of General MacArthur.
Looking for Juan
Organized by non-profit group Center for Art, New Ventures, and Sustainable Development (CANVAS), Karapatan: Artists Stand for Human Rights is an online exhibit that showcases social and cultural relevance and touches on what human rights mean in the country today. All artworks in the collection explore social issues and center on one thought-provoking question: “What does it mean to be human and Filipino?”
Down with Imperialism, Fight Fascism, Resistance is Never Futile., Renz Lee, 2017 - 2017, From the collection of: Center for Art, New Ventures & Sustainable Development (CANVAS)
Uniquely Pinoy
Only In The Philippines is another collection by the CANVAS and this time, the group showcased use of art to reflect the Filipino’s national identity. Over 25 artists participated in the collection and shared their own creative interpretations of the traits, aspirations, activities, and symbols that are uniquely Filipino.
The booming street art scene
Filipino Street Art Project features works of creative and empowered young people who are using modern art to communicate universal issues and inspire change in the streets of Manila. Among their works are guerilla art, mural paintings, wall graffiti, and even decals and stickers on the popular jeepneys.
Explore more collections from museums in the Philippines and around the world in Google Arts and Culture. Access thousands of art and stories from over 2,000 institutions on the web or via the app.
