Elmer Borlongan
Biography
Elmer Borlongan is a distinguished Filipino artist known for his unique interpretation of everyday Filipino life. Born in Santa Mesa, Manila, he began his artistic journey early, taking formal art lessons under Fernando Seña at age 11. He studied Fine Arts Major in Painting at the University of the Philippines in Diliman. His rise to prominence began in the 1990s, marked by winning the prestigious Cultural Center of the Philippines' Thirteen Artists Award in 1994. Before becoming a celebrated A-list artist, he was a street artist and cultural activist. He is renowned for his distinctive style that captures the daily struggles and experiences of ordinary Filipinos, particularly focusing on the urban poor and working class. His work is characterized by his extraordinary ability to portray the mundane and often overlooked aspects of Philippine daily life through a unique artistic lens.
Notable information
- Received the 2004 Award for Continuing Excellence and Service
- Known for his distinctive figurative style and social realist themes
- His works often feature elongated, distorted figures that have become his signature style
- Has held numerous solo exhibitions both locally and internationally
- His art is recognized for bringing Filipino culture and daily life to the forefront
- His works are part of major collections including the National Museum of the Philippines
- Considered one of the most important contemporary Filipino artists
