Featured in:

“Lost in Translation”, Rosenblut & Friedmann, Madrid

During the Spanish colonial period in the late 19th century, a group of upper middle-class Filipinos known as the “Ilustrados” emerged. These individuals received education in Spain and were exposed to European ideals. Among them was painter Juan Luna, who had travelled to Madrid (and later on around Europe), in pursuit of his artistic calling.

In 1884, Luna submitted his expansive 4x7meter painting entitled “Spoliarium” to the annual Exposición Nacional de Bellas Artes in Madrid, and triumphantly won first place. This accolade would prove pivotal, as was the catalyst that ignited a chain reaction. Jose Rizal, who is considered the national hero of the Philippines, lauded the artistic prowess and courage of the painter and thus became inspired to write his groundbreaking novel “Noli Me Tangere” (1887). This literary work caused a massive uproar across society, culminating in the tumultuous 1896 Philippine Revolution which ultimately granted Filipinos independence after over three centuries of colonial subjugation.

Driven by a profound resonance and admiration for Juan Luna's artistic odyssey, Batungbacal creates “Pink people in a museum.” Though her aspiration extends beyond homage; she sought to catalyze Filipinos to chase their loftiest dreams, refusing the constraints of colonial mentality. Furthermore, she aimed to illustrate that art has the remarkable power to open dialogue and cultivate action, so much so that it can literally start or end a war.

Sold