Syllabus: Contemporary Arts from the Regions
Course Title:
Contemporary Arts from the Regions
Course Code:
CA 101
Course Description:
This course introduces students to contemporary Philippine arts by surveying art forms from
different regions. Emphasis is placed on understanding the characteristics, materials, practices,
and cultural significance of art in local contexts. The course encourages the students to
appreciate regional diversity and develop their critical and creative thinking through discussions
and hands-on activities.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
1. Define and differentiate traditional and contemporary art.
2. Identify and discuss key characteristics of contemporary art in various Philippine regions.
3. Analyze how local culture, history, and environment influence regional art forms.
4. Create an original artwork inspired by a regional art form.
5. Exhibit and reflect on the value of contemporary regional arts in national identity.
Course Outline:
Week 1–2: Introduction to Contemporary Art
Definition and characteristics
Contemporary vs. Modern vs. Traditional Art
Role of contemporary artists in society
Week 3–4: Art and Society
Functions of art
National and regional identity
Cultural appropriation vs. appreciation
Week 5–6: Contemporary Art Forms
Visual arts (painting, sculpture, mixed media)
Performing arts (dance, theater, music)
Literary arts (poetry, spoken word)
Digital and media arts
Week 7–8: Luzon Contemporary Arts
Highland Cordilleran weaving and tattoo
Ilocos Region inabel and pottery
Baguio’s contemporary art scene (e.g., BenCab, Kidlat Tahimik)
Week 9–10: Visayas Contemporary Arts
Sinulog and Ati-atihan Festival arts
Bacolod’s MassKara Festival
Panay-Bukidnon culture in art and performance
Week 11–12: Mindanao Contemporary Arts
T'nalak weaving and other textile traditions
Maranao and Tausug artistic expressions
Peace and conflict themes in Mindanao art
Week 13–14: Filipino Artists in the Diaspora and Urban Scene
OFW narratives in contemporary art
Street art and muralism in urban centers
Week 15: Fieldwork / Gallery Visit / Artist Talk
Local artist guest lecture
Virtual or physical tour of an art gallery or exhibit
Week 16: Creative Project Development
Creation of student artwork inspired by regional art forms
Concept paper and artist statement preparation
Week 17: Presentation of Final Projects
Exhibit or performance
Peer and teacher evaluation
Week 18: Reflection and Course Wrap-up
Reflection paper
Final portfolio submission
Course evaluation
Assessment Methods:
Quizzes and Written Exams – 20%
Reaction Papers and Reflections – 15%
Group Activities and Presentations – 20%
Creative Project and Exhibit – 30%
Class Participation – 15%
Required Readings and Materials:
CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art (Contemporary Art Volume)
Local case studies and articles on regional artists
Documentaries and art videos (e.g., Rakenrol, Himala, Kidlat Tahimik films)
Materials for creative outputs (based on student's chosen art form)
