A cultural journey through Filipino art at UP Visayas museum

In a historic collaboration, Iloilo City now hosts one of the most anticipated art exhibitions of the year. “The Patrimony of All – Ang Panublion sang Tanan – Paintings from the Lopez Museum and Library Collection” is now open to the public at the UP Visayas Museum of Art and Cultural Heritage, offering visitors a rare chance to view iconic masterpieces from some of the Philippines’ most esteemed artists.

The exhibit, which opened on 30 November 2024, is the Lopez Museum and Library’s first loan outside of Metro Manila, marking a significant moment in the cultural landscape of Iloilo. According to Iloilo City first lady, Rosalie Treñas, “Bringing these masterpieces to Iloilo was an opportunity to honor our roots that we could not let pass. It is in Iloilo that our family’s journey of hard work, philanthropy, and service to others began. It just made perfect sense to keep coming and giving back, uplifting the very community that had also shaped our own personal history.”

This landmark exhibit is a joint initiative of the University of the Philippines Visayas, the Lopez Group Foundation, Inc., and the Iloilo City Government. The event also supports the city’s Green Meets Great campaign, which positions Iloilo as a sustainable and highly urbanized destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), with a focus on arts, culture, and heritage.

Curated by Dr. Patrick Flores, “The Patrimony of All” showcases the works of four revered Filipino masters: Juan Luna, Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo, Fernando Amorsolo, and Juan Arellano. This exhibit underscores the importance of preserving and sharing Filipino creativity with future generations. “The creativity embodied by these masters belongs to all Filipinos,” said Dr. Flores. “It’s a privilege to bring their works to Iloilo, especially in a building designed by Arellano himself.”

A Visual Feast of Filipino Masterpieces

The exhibit features 16 masterpieces—four from Juan Luna, four from Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo, five from Fernando Amorsolo, and three from Juan Arellano. Notable pieces include Luna’s La Moza y El Lego, Hidalgo’s El Asesinato de Gobernador Bustamante y su Hijo, Amorsolo’s Native Fruits, and Arellano’s Philippine Scenes I and II.

For many, this exhibit is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view these iconic works up close. "This is a great opportunity for the public to finally behold the masterpieces of Luna, Hidalgo, Amorsolo, and Arellano firsthand and up close," said Dr. Flores.

The exhibit’s historical significance is highlighted by the venue itself— the UP Visayas Museum of Art and Cultural Heritage, a building designed by Juan Arellano, one of the featured artists. Dr. Franklin Drilon, former senator with the support of Senator Loren Legarda who were key figures in bringing the exhibit to Iloilo, shared, “This building, which was supposed to be the city hall of Iloilo City, was donated to the University of the Philippines on the condition that UP establish a branch here. It’s very meaningful that we’re opening this exhibit today.”

Preserving Heritage for Future Generations

The Lopez family’s deep ties to Iloilo are reflected in their longstanding commitment to the province. “The Lopezes are proudly Ilonggo. They have never failed to give back to Iloilo in any way they can,” said Mercedes ‘Cedie’ Lopez Vargas, president of the Lopez Group Foundation, Inc. and executive director of the Lopez Museum and Library. “The full support given by the Iloilo City Government to enable arts, heritage, and culture to prosper is really an inspiration for others to emulate.”

For Dr. Clement Camposano, Chancellor of UP Visayas, the exhibit is a timely celebration of Iloilo’s rich cultural history. "We’re so honored that we were given this opportunity to feature these works," he said. “This is the first time that these artworks have been brought out of the museum. The local connection and historical significance make it all the more special.”

The exhibit will run until April 2025, offering ample opportunity for locals and visitors to experience these masterpieces. It is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. As Iloilo continues to thrive as a cultural hub, this exhibit serves as a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving and sharing its heritage with the world.

“The Patrimony of All” invites all to reflect on the past, celebrate Filipino artistry, and look forward to the future of culture and heritage in Iloilo.