Mauie Flores

The Philippines is rich in artistic treasures. All of these we have acquired not only because of our rich cultural heritage but also because of the artistic talents that are innate in our Filipino artists. Don Eugenio Lopez, Sr., was not only a successful and astute businessman, he was also an avid supporter of Philippine art and culture.

Fifty years ago, on 13 February 1960, the founder of the Lopez Group of Companies built the Lopez Museum in honor of his parents, Benito Lopez and Presentacion Holifena. The aim was to share his personal collection of rare Filipiniana materials, maps, and archeological artifacts to all Filipinos especially students and scholars.

To celebrate the day, the Lopez Museum celebrates 50th anniversary on February 18, 2010. Unfolding book launch and opening of Threads exhibit are the highlights of the celebration. "Threads: The Museum as Site for the Weaving of Tales" will showcase the works of contemporary artists Jean Marie Syjuco, Ann Wizer, Myra Beltran, Jef Carnay, Ann Pamintuan, Leo Abaya and Kiri Dalena.  Collectively, their works illustrate the museum as a place of that tells stories of historic and social significance.  The pieces will be exhibited at the North Court of the  Rockwell Power Plant Mall from February 19 to 25, 2010.



Aside from these highlights, the Lopez Museum in Ortigas  Center Pasig will also open the "After the Fact" exhibit to the public.    The exhibit will show Don Eugenio's personal collection as well as the works of artists Gaston Damag, Antipas Delotavo, Imelda Cajipe-Endaya and Keith Sicat. The exhibit will also launch the Lopez Museum's new website www.lopez-museum.org which will give visitors a chance to view their searchable and indexed archive of around 1,000 images.

For more information on the Lopez Museum and its 50th anniversary celebration, please visit the Lopez Museum and Library Facebook page.