Claudio Bravo's Manila Paintings

For the first time in more than four decades, the Manila paintings of Claudio Bravo will be exhibited in Metropolitan Museum that is both tribute to an important hyperrealist artist and a celebration of the ties between two nations.

The Embassy of Chile and geothermal energy producer Energy Development Corporation (EDC) jointly presented Claudio Bravo: Sojourn in Manila at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila on September 18, also the 202nd anniversary of Chile’s independence. Open to the public until October 20, the retrospective aims to highlight the strengthening of bilateral ties between the Philippines and Chile.


EDC chairman emeritus Oscar M. Lopez affirmed that “EDC, with its focus and expertise in geothermal energy has been undertaking exploration activities in the mountains of Chile for some time now. In the near future, we hope, to likewise contribute to the supply of clean and renewable energy into the homes and industries of Chile.” He said that “the bonds forged can be further strengthened by our endeavors in Chile. There is much to share, and much to gain between our two countries, culturally, as well as commercially.”

Lopez recalled that he had met Bravo in January 1968 as one of the guests at the 40th wedding anniversary of his parents, Eugenio Sr. and Pacita. The artist’s six-month stay in the country predated the renown that was later bestowed on him as one of the world’s leading hyperrealist painters.

Amb. Roberto L. Mayorga said that as well as honoring the distinguished figures of his portraits, Claudio Bravo: Sojourn in Manila is expected to “become a realistic contribution in strengthening the solid and traditional friendship” between the Philippines and Chile.

Art aficionados, private collectors, businessmen and family members of the portraits painted by Bravo in 1968 attended the opening reception.

Claudio Bravo: Sojourn in Manila will be accompanied by weekly activities on Saturdays, including a curator’s talk by Tats Manahan, a lecture on still life painting by Cid Reyes, and drawing sessions.

The Metropolitan Museum of Manila is located at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Manila. Museum hours are from 9am – 6pm, Monday to Saturday. For information, call 708-7829 or visit www.metmuseum.ph

You can also read the whole experience and insights at Daddy Yashiro's Journal.