The Poet of Concrete: The Architecture of National Artist Leandro Locsin is now open to the public, offering a comprehensive retrospective on the life and works of one of the most prominent figures in Philippine art and design. The exhibition launched on Thursday, September 26, 2024.
The first section of the exhibition takes visitors through the creative journey and remarkable career of Locsin, affectionately known as Lindy, whose visionary approach has made a lasting impact on Philippine architecture. This segment provides a detailed timeline of his most renowned buildings, showcasing a collection of facsimiles of original drawings, photographs, and models, made possible through the contributions of Leandro V Locsin Partners (LVLP). Featured in this section are his works for La Salle, recognitions as an outstanding alumnus, and highlights of both his initial and final projects. It also sheds light on some of his structures that have since been demolished.
The second section of the exhibit explores his lasting influence and legacy, as demonstrated by the ongoing work of LVLP, now led by his son Andy. It presents a series of images, texts, and scale models of significant projects the firm has undertaken since Locsin’s passing in 1994. Insightful interviews with the partners provide a deeper understanding of their experiences collaborating with the National Artist and how his architectural philosophy continues to guide their practice.
Organized by the Center for Campus Art (CCA) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) in collaboration with the Cultural Center of the Philippines and LVLP, the exhibition also looks forward to the future of architecture through the perspective of emerging talents from the DLS-CSB School of Environment and Design.
Under the guidance of Architects Jim Caumeron and Kyle Nuestro, students have conceptualized and designed structures that respond to Locsin’s celebrated Brutalist style and principles. Their scale models, accompanied by discussions, demonstrate how Locsin’s legacy continues to inspire the next generation of artists and architects.
The show also features excerpts from essays by notable Filipino architects, including Gerard Lico, Caryn Paredes-Santillan, and AJ Javier, among others, who reflect on Locsin’s contributions to the field in the upcoming exhibit catalog.
The Poet of Concrete: The Architecture of National Artist Leandro Locsin is curated by CCA Director Architect Gerry Torres. The exhibition runs from Thursday, September 26, 2024, to Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the 12F Gallery of the Benilde Design + Arts Campus, 950 Pablo Ocampo Street, Malate, Manila.
For more information, visit facebook.com/BenildeCampusArt.
