National Arts Month: Supporting a nation’s soul

The rise of digital platforms has allowed Filipino artists to reach global audiences, but local recognition and appreciation remain vital.

Museum goers explore the National Museum of Fine Arts along Padre Burgos Street in Manila on Saturday, 4 January. DAILY TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO JOHN CARLO MAGALION

Published on:

09 Feb 2025, 17:12

Every February, the Philippines celebrates National Arts Month (NAM), a time to honor the diverse and vibrant artistic talents of Filipinos. Established by Presidential Proclamation No. 683 in 1991, NAM highlights the importance of arts in shaping national identity, fostering creativity and supporting local artists across various disciplines, including literature, music, dance, visual arts, theater, architecture and film.

museum dedicated to Apolinario Mabini's life and works during the 160th birth anniversary of Mabini, also known as the brains and conscience of the Philippine Revolution, in Tanauan City, Batangas.PHOTOGRAPH BY YUMMIE DINGDING FOR THE DAILY TRIBUNE

‘Dalagang Bukid,’ ‘Bayanihan’ and ‘Lapu-Lapu,’ which are famous paintings by National Artist Fernando Amorsolo made with Lego, on display at the activity area of the Gateway Mall in Quezon City.DAILY TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO

The façade of the Manila Metropolitan Theater is adorned with singkabans, the Tagalog decorative welcome arches made of bamboo, and is lit with multi-colored lights, representing the seven arts, during National Arts Month.Photographs courtesy of NCCA

For Filipino artists, National Arts Month serves as a crucial platform to showcase their work, connect with audiences, and gain recognition. Government agencies like the National Commission for Culture and the Arts spearhead events such as art exhibits, performances and workshops, providing opportunities for both emerging and established artists to share their craft. These activities not only celebrate Filipino artistry but also promote cultural preservation and innovation.

The relevance of National Arts Month goes beyond mere festivities. It underscores the economic and social role of artists in society. In a country where many creatives struggle with financial stability and limited support, NAM helps amplify their voices and highlight the need for stronger government and private sector support. The rise of digital platforms has allowed Filipino artists to reach global audiences, but local recognition and appreciation remain vital.

National Museum of the Philippines unveils the intimate clay sculpture of the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, dubbed as ‘Josephine Sleeping’ on 30 December 2024. This is to commemorate the martyrdom of the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. The sculpture was crafted by Rizal when he was exiled in Dapitan. Photograph by Aram jan Lascano for the Daily Tribune

Students from various schools tour the Museo de Intramuros in Manila on Monday, 3 February, during the opening of National Arts Month, organized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. This year’s theme, ‘Ani ng Sining: Diwa at Damdamin’ (Harvest of the Arts: Soul and Passion), highlights the spirit and passion driving Filipino creativity. Photograph by John Carlo Magallon for the Daily Tribune

JohnCarloMagallon

Moreover, NAM fosters national pride by emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage. By promoting indigenous art forms, traditional crafts and modern interpretations of Filipino identity, the celebration helps bridge the past and the future. It also encourages younger generations to explore artistic careers, ensuring that the country’s rich artistic legacy continues to thrive.

In essence, National Arts Month is more than a celebration — it is a reminder that the arts are essential to Filipino identity, history and progress.

Supporting artists means supporting the soul of the nation.

National Arts Month

Latest Stories

No stories found.