As the country’s first National Artist, Fernando Amorsolo is often remembered for his light-filled pastoral scenes. And in a new exhibit at Ayala Museum, visitors are given a chance to explore how his iconic use of color and light shaped Filipino identity and national aesthetics.
The new exhibition, which opened on April 25, reintroduces Amorsolo to younger generations through interactive and accessible displays, including digital installations and color vision tools.
Titled Amorsolo: Chroma, the exhibit presents a contemporary take on the works of the late painter, widely known for his light-drenched rural landscapes and historical scenes that helped define Filipino visual identity in the 20th century.
The show features Amorsolo’s signature pastoral paintings alongside digital stations, paint-by-color walls, and a “Light Room” exploring the role of color in both art and technology. Visitors with color vision deficiency can access EnChroma glasses—a first in Philippine museums—to better appreciate the artist’s work.
“This exhibition reflects our ongoing commitment to making Ayala Museum more accessible,” said Aprille Tijam, associate director of the museum.
The exhibit also places Amorsolo’s works in dialogue with those of his contemporaries to examine the evolution of a national aesthetic and how his style influenced debates about Filipino identity.
Curator Tenten Mina said the exhibition aims to spark discussion among modern audiences about Amorsolo’s use of light and color in the context of digital media. “What happens when we view his works alongside those of his contemporaries?” she said.
The exhibition runs until Sept. 7 and is supported by BPI and Boysen. Visitors may book online or walk in during museum hours from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.