The archival photos from the personal collection of historian Dr. Bernadita R. Churchill are given a colorful interpretation by visual artist Celeste Lecaroz in the exhibit, “Center and Periphery” which runs until September 30, 2019 at the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).
Dr. Bernadita R. Churchill, president of the Philippine National Historical Society and founding member of the Manila Studies Association, has amassed a library of rare photographs that document different facets of Filipino culture such as cityscapes of Old Manila, rural vistas and images of indigenous Filipinos. The volume of photos reveals Dr. Churchill’s knowledge as well as her lifelong dedication to history. It is from this collection that Ms. Lecaroz has created paintings in spontaneous realism style.
The result is a very unique showcase. In a statement, the NCCA described the exhibit as a fusion of the past and the present. “The vigorous strokes and vibrant colors that characterize the paintings usher the viewer to a fresh appreciation of the iconic photographs, and at the same time to feel the subjects’ contemporaneity.”
“Center and Periphery” marks the fourth time that the NCCA is featuring photos from Dr. Churchill’s collection.
The works are on display at The NCCA Gallery located at 633 General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila.
For inquiries, contact 527-2192, locals 324 and 328 or email gallery@ncca.gov.ph or nccagallery09@gmail.com, or visit www.ncca.gov.ph.
