Artist’s Spotlight

Fil Dela Cruz

Printmaker and Painter

“Fil Delacruz weaves a tapestry of emotions that resonates with the souls of all who witness his creations. With an unwavering dedication to defying the confines of conventional expression, he stands tall as an unyielding beacon within the vibrant realm of Philippine art, an icon of unparalleled magnitude.”

Fil Delacruz, a renowned printmaker and painter, has left an indelible mark on the Philippine art scene for the past 50 years. Born and raised in the vibrant city of Manila, Delacruz’s artistic journey began at the prestigious University of Santo Tomas, where he pursued a degree in Advertising Arts. It was during his formative years as a student that his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to his craft began to flourish.

Delacruz quickly garnered recognition as a rising star in the art world, consistently emerging victorious in national art competitions. In 1973, his outstanding achievements were acknowledged with the coveted Benavides Award for Outstanding Achievement, solidifying his place as a promising young artist.

In 1982, Delacruz held his first solo exhibition of mezzotint prints at the esteemed Hiraya Gallery. This milestone event allowed him to showcase his unique artistic style, which is characterized by the infusion of indigenous symbols and ethnic imagery. Delacruz’s artworks served as a captivating testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines, captivating viewers with their evocative storytelling and vibrant visual language.

The accolades continued to pour in for Delacruz, as he became a consistent winner in the prestigious AAP Annual Art Competition. In 1981, his masterpiece “Thanatopsis” claimed first prize at the renowned Art Association of the Philippines Annual. This triumph was followed by two consecutive grand prizes for his works “Transmogrification” in 1982 and “Goddess of the South” in 1983. These accolades not only solidified Delacruz’s reputation as a preeminent artist but also highlighted his ability to continuously innovate and captivate audiences with his thought-provoking creations.

Throughout his career, Delacruz’s artistic exploration has been centered on the multifaceted nature of the Filipina. He views women as an ever-evolving entity, one that represents his philosophical other and serves as an endless source of inspiration. In his award-winning etchings from the 1980s, Delacruz depicted ethnic beauties transformed into goddesses, showcasing the intrinsic allure of the Filipina. One of his most notable exhibitions, “Bulawan” (Gold) at Galerie Y, was a testament to this artistic vision, immersing viewers in a world where ethnic beauty transcends conventional boundaries.

In subsequent exhibitions, such as “Dilim at Liwanag” at the Drawing Room, Delacruz’s muses took on the form of sepulchral Madonnas adorned with symbols of death and temptations. He also depicted them as color-wrapped nymphs against lush landscapes in the mesmerizing exhibition titled “Samba” at the Crucible Gallery. Delacruz’s constant reimagining of women in his art has led him to bestow upon them various names, including diwata (goddess), mother earth, wood nymph, universal woman, maskara (mask), and subconscious other. Each name represents a facet of femininity that he seeks to illuminate through his artworks.

Delacruz’s artistic journey has taken him beyond the borders of the Philippines, showcasing his masterpieces in prominent cities worldwide. From Guanzou, China, to Essen, Germany, from Gerona, Spain, to Hong Kong, and from Bratislava, Czechoslovakia, to Brussels, Belgium, his artworks have transcended geographical boundaries, resonating with audiences on a global scale. His exhibitions in Paris, France, and New York, USA, have further solidified his international acclaim and cemented his position as a visionary artist.

Not only has Delacruz dedicated his life to the creation of art, but he has also devoted himself to the education and mentorship of aspiring artists. Delacruz’s passion for sharing his knowledge and nurturing talent led him to conduct a series of printmaking workshops across the Philippines, empowering emerging artists to explore their own creative journeys.

His commitment to art education extended to prestigious institutions such as the Philippine High School for the Arts in Los Baños, the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts, and the University of Santo Tomas College of Fine Arts and Design. As a respected educator, Delacruz imparted his wisdom and artistic expertise, shaping the minds of countless young artists and contributing to the growth of the Philippine art community.

Delacruz’s contributions to the art world have not gone unnoticed. In 1992, he received the esteemed Thirteen Artists Award from the Cultural Center of the Philippines, recognizing his outstanding talent and significant contributions to contemporary art. In 1982, he was honored as the Outstanding Bulakenyo in the field of Art, further solidifying his reputation as an exceptional artist from his hometown. The year 1999 brought forth yet another distinction, as Delacruz was recognized as the Outstanding Citizen of Muntinlupa for his invaluable contributions to the arts.

In 2007, the City of Manila bestowed upon Delacruz the prestigious “Parangal Patnubay ng Sining at Kalinangan” in recognition of his immense influence and dedication to the arts. These accolades serve as a testament to the profound impact of his artistic endeavors and his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

As an esteemed member of the artistic community, Delacruz has held various leadership roles, including his tenure as President of the Philippine Association of Printmakers from 1990 to 2000. His vision and guidance have helped shape the direction of the organization and strengthen the bond among artists dedicated to the art of printmaking.

In addition to his artistic accomplishments and extensive contributions to the art world, Delacruz has held over 30 solo exhibitions throughout his illustrious career. Each exhibition has provided a glimpse into the artist’s ever-evolving creative journey, captivating audiences with his ability to merge profound concepts with breathtaking visual aesthetics.

Today, Fil Delacruz resides in his Art Studio/Gallery at Bahaysining in Muntinlupa City, Philippines. This creative sanctuary serves as a haven where he continues to produce remarkable artworks, pushing the boundaries of his own artistic expression. It is a space where his passion and creativity intertwine, reflecting a lifelong dedication to the arts.

Fil Delacruz’s artistic legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences both locally and internationally. With his profound ability to evoke emotions through his art and his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity, he remains a true icon in the Philippine art scene. As his artistic journey unfolds, it is clear that Fil Delacruz’s contributions will leave an indelible mark on the world of art for generations to come.