UNDERSCORING the importance of the family in society, the artworks of alumnus Michael Blanco depict the lives of people in rural communities, exhibited in Pagpupugay sa Pamilyang Pilipino at the UST Museum from Jan. 10 to 31.
The roster of artworks was mainly inspired by Blanco’s travels and immersions in South Cotabato and other local communities in the country.
According to Blanco, he wanted to present the pleasant values of the Filipinos, such as their simplicity and diligence.
“The Philippines is [a] great [subject] to paint,” Blanco said. “My goal is to show to others our country’s culture and traditions.”
Born on July 21, 1966 in Angono, Rizal, Blanco came from an established family of visual artists. Under the tutelage of their father and renowned painter Jose “Pitok Blanco, he and his siblings were able to harness their skills in paintings.
Utilizing bright and warm colors, some of his artworks depict festive scenes and feasts, such as “Kapistahan,” “Miting de Avance,” and “Barrio Fiesta.” Trees, fields, and the common backdrop of the province are presented in littlest details, while the subjects are rendered in an almost life-like quality.
On the other hand, contrasting hues dominate “Escape to Higher Grounds.” People donning colorful clothes are seen fleeing from the erupting Mayon Volcano painted in a cool, bluish hue.
At the center of the exhibit is “Cross,” a painting of a South Cotabato waterfall enclosed in a gold-colored cross-shaped frame.
“The flow of the water is very powerful,” he said. “It represents the blessings that continue to flow our way.”
Blanco graduated from the University in 1987, with a degree of Bachelor of Arts in Literature.
