MAKATI CITY — A familiar figure from Philippine folklore takes on new meaning through the artwork Pook ni Maria, a 1994 linocut print by the late visual artist Leonilo “Neil” Doloricon, featured in the Yuchengco Museum’s GUNITA: Leonilo “Neil” Doloricon exhibition. Inspired by the legend of Mariang Makiling, the work brings attention to a cultural figure whose story has long been associated with the protection of Mount Makiling and its surrounding environment in Laguna. Rather than presenting folklore merely as a tale from the past, the artwork offers an opportunity to revisit how traditional stories shape Filipino relationships with nature and place. Through its depiction of the legendary guardian, the print also highlights the continuing relevance of indigenous narratives and local traditions in understanding the country’s cultural identity.
Folklore and Nature in a Single Frame
The artwork’s composition draws from the rich natural imagery associated with Mariang Makiling, placing the legendary figure within a setting filled with tropical plants, butterflies, and birds. These details create a visual connection between the character and the environment she is believed to protect, reinforcing the relationship between Philippine mythology and the country’s natural heritage. The inclusion of wildlife, including a cockatiel as identified in the museum’s artwork description, adds another layer to the scene’s representation of biodiversity. Through this combination of familiar folklore and natural elements, Pook ni Maria encourages viewers to consider how stories passed down through generations can preserve a sense of appreciation for the landscapes and living creatures that form part of Filipino heritage.
A Lasting Contribution to Philippine Art
Doloricon’s work also offers visitors a glimpse into the range of subjects explored by an artist widely recognized for his contributions to Philippine social realism. Across more than four decades, his artistic practice addressed Filipino experiences and social realities through different visual forms, including paintings and printmaking. His career included service as dean of the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts, further connecting his legacy to the country’s artistic and educational communities. The GUNITA exhibition brings together works from the collection of Saul Hofileña Jr., allowing audiences to encounter different dimensions of Doloricon’s creative practice beyond a single artistic theme. The museum announcement identifies Pook ni Maria as one of the featured works and lists the exhibition at the 3F Bridgeway Gallery, with viewing scheduled through January 2027.
