Project: Art Critique in Philippine Art Works

   “THE MUSICIANS” BY VICENTE MANANSALA"

          Vicente Manansala's artwork "The Musicians" was created in 1970 Philippines. The medium that he used for his artwork is oil on canvas, showcasing his unique style that blends traditional Filipino themes with modern artistic techniques. 

           His artwork was composed of people which are the central figures depicted as musicians playing various instruments, contributing to the lively theme. It has instruments such as guitars and drums are prominently featured, illustrating the musical focus of his art. It is made of cubist shapes, and the figures and instruments are rendered in geometric forms, showcasing Manansala's cubist approach. It has vibrant colors of a palette of bright and warm colors that adds energy and depth to the composition. Based on what I have observed in Vicente Manansala's "The Musicians," the vibrant colors and geometric shapes of the figures and instruments exhibit a similarity in their abstraction, creating a cohesive visual rhythm that reflects the energy of music. However, while the musicians are depicted with dynamic, overlapping forms that suggest movement and interaction, the instruments maintain a more structured geometric appearance, highlighting a dissimilarity in how each element conveys a sense of activity versus stability. This interplay between the fluidity of the figures and the solidity of the instruments enhances the overall narrative of musical harmony within the artwork.

          The overlapping forms of the musicians suggest a sense of unity and collaboration, which emphasizes how individuals come together to create a collective sound. The dynamic, abstracted figures, with their vibrant colors, convey energy and movement, representing the joy and liveliness inherent in musical expression. In contrast, the instruments are depicted with more defined geometric shapes, symbolizing structure and foundation. This dissimilarity highlights the balance between the chaotic energy of performance and the ordered framework that music provides. Vicente Manansala's "The Musicians" belongs to the modernist period, specifically, the cubist style, which emerged in the early 20th century. The reason why Manansala chose to pursue this style is because, he wanted to blend traditional Filipino themes with modern artistic techniques, creating a unique visual language that resonated with both local and international audiences. As during the mid-20th century, modernist movements were gaining prominence worldwide. Manansala's engagement with these trends positioned him within a global art dialogue, allowing for greater visibility and appreciation of Filipino art. 

         For me, the features of his artwork made me realize some things, like the color palette which symbolizes lively colors that evoke a sense of joy and dynamism, drawing me into the scene and reflecting the celebratory nature of music which is what I like the most. Manansala’s ability to merge traditional Filipino themes with modernist techniques showcases his artistic prowess and willingness to push boundaries, which I find both admirable and inspiring.

          In conclusion, my aesthetic judgment is based on how effectively the artwork communicates through its themes, color, form, and emotional resonance, creating a powerful visual experience that captures the spirit of music in our community.