Now, everyone has access to the works of National Artist Guillermo Tolentino
The Bonifacio Monument and the Oblation at the University of the Philippines are just some of the works of National Artist Guillermo Tolentino. Not only have these become historical landmarks but are perennial reminders of the Philippines’ strong history, nationalism, art, and workmanship.
Known for his classical style, mainly using plaster and metal for sculpture, Tolentino dominated the Philippine art scene from the 1930s to the 1950s. He was also named National Artist in 1973.
Security Bank is committed to preserving culture and heritage, and commemorates landmark events, such as National Heritage Month, and works with various organizations to celebrate the country’s artistic and cultural legacy.
Recently, the bank formally turned over 14 sculptures of Tolentino to the National Museum of the Philippines. To commemorate this donation, it recently renovated the Security Bank Hall at the second floor of the National Museum of Fine Arts in the City of Manila.
"With the reintroduction of the Security Bank Hall underpinned by the official handover of Tolentino’s pieces, we hope to spark a fresh interest in historic art and make these easily accessible to visitors and the community for generations to come," says Security Bank President and Chief Executive Officer Sanjiv Vohra.
The Bank understands the important role that financial institutions play in nation-building and sustainable development. By advocating for Filipino art and culture through partnerships and art donations, it hopes to enrich lives and build communities sustainably.
"The National Museum of the Philippines is grateful to Security Bank for donating 14 sculptures of the 1973 National Artist for Sculpture Guillermo Tolentino. These sculptures are part of the country’s history and have become a symbol of excellence for many artists not only here in the Philippines, but also abroad. We hope that more Filipinos will visit the museum and witness first-hand the exquisite work and style of one of the country’s best," says National Museum Director Jeremy Barns.
Among the donated sculptures is the “Model of the Commonwealth Triumphal Arch,” which is a small-scale version of a much larger monument similar to France’s ’Arc de Triomphe, and “Bust of a Boy Scout”, which featured the likeness of Scout Roberto Castor who was among the 24 delegates to the World Jamboree who died in a plane crash.
Visitors to the Security Bank Hall can learn about history and art by observing and learning about the history of these and the other donated sculptures: Bust of President Manuel Roxas, Bust of Lapu-Lapu, Bust of President Manuel L. Quezon, Bust of Gat. Andres Bonifacio, Bust of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, head of a Filipina Lady, Miniature bust of Dr. Jose Rizal, Bust of Bibiano Meer, Bust of Luisa Marasigan, Bust of Don Jacobo Lim Chitco, bust of a Matriarch, and Bust of Dr. Jose Rizal.
Photos of the donated sculpture can be viewed through this link.
https://indiohistorian.tumblr.com/post/65766966725/the-commonwealth-triumphal-arch-would-have-been