National Arts Month is celebrated annually throughout February in the Philippines. The events and activities that take place during this month are geared toward showcasing the artistic talent of Filipinos, as well as providing avenues for artists to channel their creative energies. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (N.C.C.A) is the government agency in charge of overseeing and organizing the events of National Arts Month.
History of National Arts Month
Also referred to as ‘Ani ng Sining,’ National Arts Month traces its history to 1991, when President Corazon Aquino, in the Presidential Proclamation 683, named February National Arts Month. The activities and events that take place during this month are organized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (N.C.C.A).
Though the N.C.C.A was designated as the lead agency in charge of National Arts Month on January 28, 1991, it wasn’t until 1992 — through the enactment of “Republic Act 7356” — that the Commission was formally established. The N.C.C.A is the government body charged with the responsibility of policymaking and implementation, grant-giving, and coordination, concerning preserving, promoting, and developing Philippine culture and arts. The official vision of the Commission is: “A Filipino people with a strong sense of nationhood and deep respect for cultural diversity.”
Its key powers and functions include facilitating a network of local and regional councils for culture and the arts and coordinating all existing government cultural agencies to implement activities and programs. the body also has the power to create committees. Its core values are found in the acronym of its name: N.C.C.A stands for ‘Nationalistic,’ ‘Committed to Service,’ ‘Competent,’ and ‘Artistic and Culture Sensitive.’ Its current executive director — appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte in January 2022 — is Oscar Casaysay.
National Arts Month timeline
Paint containers are used in South Africa.
Michelangelo paints a ceiling mural in the Sistine Chapel.
The famous “Mona Lisa” painting is stolen from The Louvre.
The Presidential Proclamation 683 declares February as National Arts Month.
National Arts Month FAQs
Why is the “Mona Lisa” so famous?
There are many reasons why the “Mona Lisa” is famous, but the most prevalent is the unique facial expression of the subject in the painting — which changes depending on the angle from which it is viewed.
How much do artists earn?
There is no specific sum that artists earn because it all depends on the fame and skill of the artist.
What are the types of art?
Though the list is not exhaustive, types of art include painting, sculpture, graphic design, visual arts, literature, and architecture.
National Arts Month Activities
Visit an art gallery
Schedule a visit to an art gallery and immerse yourself in the beauty of artistic creations. This is a good way to relax and be entertained.
Create a piece of art
Tap into your creative side this month by making an artsy item. Create a decorative item for your home or some beaded jewelry for a friend.
Support an artist
Support a local artist by purchasing one of his or her pieces. Not only will this add to your collection; but it will also keep an artist in the business.
5 FACTS ABOUT THE MOST FAMOUS ARTISTS OF ALL TIME
Leonardo da Vinci
Born in 1452, da Vinci is well-known for painting the “Mona Lisa.”
Michelangelo
Michelangelo was an expert in painting, sculpture, and architecture, and is also remembered for painting the famous mural on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel
Rembrandt
Born in 1606 and known as the ‘Dutch Master,’ Rembrandt is responsible for painting “The Night Watch” and “the Return of the Prodigal Son.”
Vincent Van Gogh
Born in 1853, Van Gogh was a famous impressionist painter, who painted “the Starry Night, Sunflower and Irises.”
Pablo Picasso
Picasso was born in 1881 and completed his first painting at only nine years old – his most popular paintings being “Guernica,” “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon,” and “the Weeping Woman.”
Why We Love National Arts Month
It promotes artistic talent
National Arts Month is an avenue to promote and provide positive exposure to talented Filipino artists. It also allows them to showcase their creativity.
It provides support to artists
As a result of the wide exposure provided by the month-long events of National Arts Month, the possibility of turning art into a lucrative business is made available to artists. While doing what they love, artists can also earn valuable money.
It promotes cultural appreciation
Every country has its unique heritage, some of which can only be expressed through artistic media. During National Arts Month, proud Filipinos can showcase their culture through poignant and beautiful creations.
National Arts Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | February 1 | Sunday |
| 2027 | February 1 | Monday |
| 2028 | February 1 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | February 1 | Thursday |
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