When visual art meets mythology, people gravitate toward what resonates most. Where do we find grains of truth today?

Text written by Maia San Diego
March 31, 2023

Visual art has always been an effective tool in communicating concepts that can be too abstract to interpret through words. Hence, mythology married with visual art is a strong and influential tool. A survey through Philippine arts and culture will show how rich and diverse our tradition is in terms of interpreting and representing our local mythology. From portraying mythological characters through sculpture and painting to creating fresh stories through comics and role playing games, it can be said that our myths continue to impress upon generations.

Mythology in Philippine visual art may speak of our truths as a people. Truth about our humanity can come from myths. Philippine mythology has had a long standing tradition in our culture. These stories play a significant role in sharing narratives of truth, values, and beliefs through visual art even through contemporary forms. In the local art scene, many contemporary artists use various images in mythology as a visual tool to share stories of modern Philippine society. Filipino mythology continues to impact our culture as it continues to draw us in with its themes and imagery.

Local Flavor

When dissecting local mythology in Philippine contemporary art, contemporary artist Rodel Tapaya’s body of works is often top of mind. Tapaya’s practice embodies the weaving of social concerns with the rich narratives of local mythology. His visual language navigates the diverse treasure trove of our stories.

The feminine form and energy have always had a major role in our folklore. The figure of the earth goddess Mebuyan has been interpreted through diverse forms. From sculpture to performance art, and even a hybrid of both, the Mebuyan has had numerous interpretations in Philippine art. One can recall the female figures by sculptor Agnes Arellano at the grounds of the UP Vargas Museum, standing strong and mystical. Contemporary artist Leeroy New has also shared Mebuyan’s Vessel, his collaborative project with performer Ea Torrado.

(Left photo): Agnes Arellano, “Inanna from Mesopotamia is also derived from our local Bagobo myth of Mebuyan, goddess of the Underworld”. Photo from agnesarellano.com; (Right photo): Leeroy New, “Mebuyan's Vessel”, 2021, Philippine Information Agency

Our local comics industry also has had a long-standing practice of reinventing and reimagining stories that have been passed on from previous generations. From Mythology Class and Netflix-adapted Trese to independent local comics such as Ang Jowa Kong Crosswise and Opis Myth, it is evident that Philippine mythology still holds its magic among the younger crowd. One can also find Sina Una, a Dungeons and Dragons campaign revolving around our local mythological narratives.

Myth-making

Sometime in our history, the influence of Philippine mythology has been wielded to sway the Filipino people’s perception of those in power. The myth of “Malakas at Maganda” was once used to tell a deceiving narrative.

Can myths still tell us truths? People can best relate to myths because myths peak of collective experiences of humanity. These stories tackle life, death, and the origins of man and the universe—themes which humanity is collectively concerned with.

In surveying contemporary art that references Philippine mythology, there is comfort in this: We still find strength and beauty in our local narratives. We still find truth in stories from generations ago even if it often seems otherwise.