A retrospective exhibition titled The Poet of Concrete: The Architecture of National Artist Leandro Locsin will open to the public on Sept. 26. This showcase celebrates the life and works of Leandro Locsin, a pivotal figure in Philippine art and design.
The first section of the exhibition invites visitors to explore Locsin’s creative journey and illustrious career, providing a comprehensive timeline of his most iconic buildings. It features a collection of facsimiles of original drawings, photographs, and models, curated with the help of Leandro V. Locsin Partners (LVLP). This section also highlights Locsin’s contributions to La Salle University, his accolades as an outstanding alumnus, and showcases both his first and last projects, including structures that have since been demolished.
The second part of the exhibition examines Locsin’s enduring influence, as seen through the current work of LVLP, now led by his son, Andy. It presents images, text, and scale models of key projects designed by the firm since Locsin’s passing in 1994. Interviews with partners provide insights into their experiences with the National Artist and illustrate how his philosophy continues to shape their work.
Produced by the Center for Campus Art (CCA) at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB), the exhibition is a collaboration with the Cultural Center of the Philippines and LVLP. It also looks forward, featuring young talents from DLS-CSB’s School of Environment and Design. Under the guidance of Architects Jim Caumeron and Kyle Nuestro, students have conceptualized and designed buildings inspired by Locsin’s Brutalist principles. Their scale models and discussions showcase how Locsin’s legacy informs a new generation of artists.
The exhibition will also include excerpts from essays by Filipino architects such as Gerard Lico, Caryn Paredes-Santillan, and AJ Javier, who reflect on Locsin’s impact.
The Poet of Concrete is curated by CCA Director Architect Gerry Torres and will be open to the public until Dec. 14 at the 12F Gallery of the Benilde Design + Arts Campus, located at 950 Pablo Ocampo Street, Malate, Manila.
For more information, visit facebook.com/BenildeCampusArt.
