Artist’s Spotlight

Ed Defensor

Nestled in the vibrant art scene of Iloilo, a self-taught artist named Ed Defensor emerged as a trailblazer, leaving an indelible mark on the region’s creative landscape. Born in 1945, Defensor’s artistic prowess was undeniable as he burst onto the scene with his inaugural One-Man Show in 1980, forever changing the artistic narrative of the city.

Throughout the years, Defensor has sustained a remarkable career in the visual arts, captivating audiences with his distinctive style and unwavering passion. His journey has been one of continuous growth and artistic exploration, as he honed his craft through successive exhibitions, active participation in art activities, and leadership roles in prestigious art organizations.

Among his notable contributions is his co-founding of the Hubon Madiaas: The Panay Art Association alongside National Artist Jose Joya in 1983. This organization became a beacon for local artists, fostering collaboration, and nurturing a sense of community among fellow creatives. Furthermore, Defensor became a Charter Member of the Arts Council of Iloilo, an esteemed institution established under the auspices of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP).

While serving as a Board Member of the Arts Council, Defensor orchestrated “Hublag: The Ilonggo Arts Festival,” an annual celebration that graced the artistic calendar from 1988 to 1996. This grand event swiftly gained recognition as one of the nation’s leading art festivals, providing a platform for local talent to shine and fostering a deeper appreciation for the arts within the community.

Defensor’s commitment to the arts extended beyond Iloilo’s borders. He played a pivotal role in the organization of the Visayas Islands Visual Artists Exhibition Conference (VIVA-EXCON), the country’s longest-running biennale. His tireless efforts and dedication to promoting artistic expression ensured the conference’s longevity and success.

In 1995, Defensor was elected as the first member of the newly-reorganized National Visual Arts Committee of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). This appointment solidified his status as a respected figure in the national arts scene, allowing him to contribute his expertise and advocate for the recognition of visual artists across the country.

With an illustrious career spanning decades, Defensor’s artistic reach has extended far and wide. His works have graced galleries in Iloilo City, Manila, and even New York, captivating audiences with their vivid storytelling and masterful technique. Beyond national borders, he has also participated in group shows in South Korea, Singapore, and North Africa, showcasing his artistry on an international stage.

Even after retiring as an Associate Professor at UP Visayas, Defensor’s creative fire remained undiminished. He embarked on public art commissions, leaving an enduring legacy in the form of monumental sculptures. Among his notable creations are the majestic 18-foot bronze sculpture titled “Lin-ay Sang Iloilo,” which adorns the crown of the Iloilo City Hall. Additionally, the Donato M. Pison Monument in the Mandurriao District of Iloilo City and the St. Ignatius Monument at the Ateneo De Iloilo stand as testaments to his artistic prowess.

Defensor’s contributions to the arts have not gone unnoticed. In 2010, the Visayas Biennale in Cebu honored him with the prestigious “Garbo sa Bisaya,” Living Legends of Visayan Visual Arts Award, recognizing his immense talent and invaluable contributions. His accolades also include the Most Outstanding Professional Jubilarian in the Arts and Letters from the UP Alumni Association Iloilo in 2006, the Distinguished Ilonggo in the Visual Arts Award from the Iloilo Province in 2008, the JCI Regatta Pinoy Icon Juan Luna Award for the Visual Arts in 2013, and the Dungganon nga Dumangasanon Award from the Municipality of Dumangas in 2014.

In 2020, the UP Visayas Museum of Art and Cultural Heritage paid tribute to Defensor’s artistic journey by inaugurating the Ed Defensor Gallery. This distinguished space within the museum showcases his captivating works, carefully curated from the University’s art collection and private collectors, ensuring that his legacy lives on for generations to come.

Ed Defensor‘s artistic odyssey serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and a testament to the enduring power of creativity. Through his relentless pursuit of artistic excellence and his unwavering commitment to fostering the arts in his community and beyond, Defensor has left an indelible imprint on the cultural tapestry of Iloilo and the Philippines as a whole. His vibrant palette and captivating narratives continue to enrich the world, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of colors and culture unlike any other.