Historical Development of Visual Artist in Negros Island

 

The history of visual arts in Negros Oriental is rich and diverse, with a vibrant community of artists and art enthusiasts spanning decades.

The roots of the visual arts scene in Negros Oriental can be traced back to the Spanish colonial period, when the province was known as Negros Oriental de la Dulce , and religious art and architecture were the predominant forms of artistic expression. This tradition continued into the American colonial period, with the development of schools and institutions that encouraged the study and practice of art.

During the mid-20th century, Negros Oriental became a center for modernist art, with artists like Jose Laspinas leading the way in experimenting with new techniques and materials.

In the 1970s, a group of artists formed the Association of Negros Artists (ANA), which aimed to promote the development and appreciation of art in the province. ANA members included prominent artists like Nunelucio Alvarado, Charlie Co, and Ed Defensor, who played a major role in shaping the contemporary art scene in Negros Oriental.

The Pillars in Negrosanon Visual Arts,Icon Charlie Co and Cristina Kitty Taniguchi

Negros produced women artist like Josefa Villanueva Perez - Perez was a painter who is known for her realistic and highly-detailed depictions of people, landscapes, and still life compositions. Her works often feature vibrant colors and strong, dramatic lighting.

 

Christina Tanguichi - Tanguichi is a painter and printmaker whose works often explore themes related to nature and the environment. Her works are characterized by their rich, organic textures and complex layering techniques.

 

Susan Canoy - Canoy is a multi-disciplinary artist whose works encompass a wide range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and installation art. Her works often incorporate found objects and materials and explore themes related to social justice and human rights.

Today, Negros Island continues to be a hub for the visual arts, with a number of galleries, art centers, and museums showcasing the work of local artists and hosting exhibitions and events that bring together art enthusiasts from around the region and beyond. The province is also home to several art schools and programs, which are helping to train the next generation of artists and further enrich the vibrant cultural landscape of Negros Oriental.