Honoring the Legacy and Artistry of National Artist Leandro V. Locsin Through ‘The Poet of Concrete’ Exhibit
Honoring the Legacy and Artistry of National Artist Leandro V. Locsin Through ‘The Poet of Concrete’ Exhibit
30 September 2024
In La Salle’s rich history of having prolific alumni, among those that have greatly contributed to the evolution of the arts here in the Philippines is the late National Artist Leandro V. Locsin. He earned the title “The Poet of Concrete” due to his unmatched skill in manipulating a mundane material and transforming it into something magical, as Center for Campus Art (CCA) Director and Curator Ar. Gerry Torres put it.
To honor such legacy, Benilde, through Torres, staged the exhibit, “The Poet of Concrete: The Architecture of National Artist Leandro Locsin” last September 26 at the 12th-floor Gallery of the Design+Arts Campus.
When asked about how everything was coordinated, Torres commented, “When planning the exhibit, I knew that the success of the project would rest on the cooperation of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), because of the National Theater, the most iconic Locsin creation, and the Locsin firm, because of the materials in their archives and their work today, a continuation of the legacy of Leandro Locsin.”
It was divided into three sections. The first one delved into Locsin’s background, showcasing his education, early life, and career through text, photographs, models, and drawings. This particular section, in the words of Torres, highlighted his key projects, including his work for La Salle, his first and last buildings, and the unfortunate demolition of some of his architectural gems.
Another section was dedicated to feature the national artist’s last influence through design firm Leandro V. Locsin Partners (LVLP), which is now led by Locsin’s son, Andy. LVLP was a collaborator of the exhibit along with the Cultural Center of the Philippines. This section features recent projects and demonstrates how Locsin’s unique philosophy and points of view continue to guide the firm.
Lastly, the third section of the exhibit takes a glimpse into the future by highlighting the innovative designs of students mentored by LVLP. With the exhibit using multimedia to present all these, the third section showcased plans, scale models, and interviews that reflect the influence of Locsin even on the new generation of artists and designers.
During the launch of the exhibit, Torres gave his opening remarks where he shared his admiration for Locsin and his works and his rationale for staging “The Poet of Concrete.”
“As an architect, this exhibit serves as my tribute to a national artist whose work I deeply admire and know well. As the founder of Benilde’s Architecture program, I leave this introduction to the genius of Locsin to the school with the hope that one day, a national artist might come from one of us,” expressed the CCA director and curated.
The same dedication to blending innovation with tradition, which Locsin embodied, is instilled in Benilde’s Architecture program, housed at the Design+Arts Campus where the exhibit took place. The program emphasizes purposeful design, blending historical and environmental knowledge, critical thinking, and artistic vision. Through its global networks and diverse mentors, the program equips students with the tools necessary to create inventive and sustainable architectural solutions.
In an interview, Torres also described Locsin’s legacy as one that transcends architecture, as he said the national artist has left a vision of “Filipino modernism that remains deeply rooted in cultural heritage while embracing the possibilities of the contemporary world.”
The CCA director and curator added, “For future generations, and especially architects, his work serves as a reminder that innovation and tradition are not mutually exclusive, but can, in fact, coalesce to create something truly timeless.
This legacy is not only preserved through Locsin’s monumental works but is reflected in the current achievements of Benildean architects. In June 2024, alumnus Louie Nathaniel Kiu achieved the highest score in the Architecture Licensure Examination with an impressive 83.30%. Additionally, Benilde secured the 4th spot among schools with 50 or more examinees, boasting an 83.64% passing rate, further cementing its reputation as a leader in architecture education.
Benilde President Br. Edmundo Fernandez FSC was also present during the opening of the exhibit. In his message, Brother Dodo shared that being an architect was his “unlived life,” having developed an interest and a high acclaim for the works of Locsin. As he ended his speech, he wished that everyone present would “appreciate the artistry and genius that is Leandro V. Locsin.”
The national artist’s son, Leandro “Andy” Locsin Jr., was also present to offer his thanks to the College and its efforts to honor his father.
“His (Locsin) wonder and curiosity appeared to have brought out a certain richness and depth in his architecture and designs in the Philippines that seem to endure. Perhaps it is this enduring aspect that we hope this exhibition today conveys,” Locsin Jr. imparted.
Torres revealed that book launches, talks on Locsin, and mini exhibitions are also in the pipeline.
True enough, Locsin’s legacy stands tall with his monumental works scattered across the Philippines, regardless if these remain intact or have fallen. With this exhibition—which serves as Torres’ last as the CCA’s director and curator—Benilde has become a medium for architects, designers, artists, and Filipinos who visit to realize their privilege to have witnessed Lacson’s journey of self discovery and by extension, further cementing itself as a pioneer academic institution for the arts.
For more information on Benilde’s Architecture and other undergraduate programs and Benildean student life, contact us at (63) 2 8230 5100 local 1801 or admissions@benilde.edu.ph. You may also visit our website at www.benilde.edu.ph.
