THE Poet of Concrete: The Architecture of National Artist Leandro Locsin, a retrospective of the life and works of one of the most important names in the field of Philippine art and design, will run from Sept. 26 to Dec. 14, 2024, at the 12F Gallery of the Benilde Design + Arts Campus, 950 Pablo Ocampo Street, Malate, Manila.
It provides a comprehensive timeline of Locsin’s most iconic buildings, which are presented through a collection of facsimiles of original drawings, as well as photographs and models, courtesy of Leandro V Locsin Partners (LVLP).
The first section walks the viewers into the creative journey and illustrious career of Locsin, also known as Lindy, whose genius has left an indelible mark on Philippine architecture.
The second part delves into his enduring influence and legacy, as seen through the current work of LVLP, now headed by his son Andy.
It showcases a series of images, text and scale models of key projects, which the firm has designed since Locsin’s passing in 1994. Interviews with the partners offer valuable insights into their experiences working with the National Artist and how his philosophy continues to shape their practice. It will highlight the structures he designed that have since been demolished.
The show likewise features excerpts from the essays of Filipino architects for the upcoming exhibit catalog, including Gerard Lico, Caryn Paredes-Santillan and AJ Javier, among others, as they reflect on Locsin’s work.
Likewise highlighted are Locsin’s works for De La Salle University (DLSU), his awards as an outstanding alumnus of the school, and his first and last projects.
The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB), through its Center for Campus Art (CCA) and in cooperation with the Cultural Center of the Philippines and LVLP, produced the exhibition.
The show also looks into the future of architecture through the lens of young talents from the DLS-CSB School of Environment and Design. Under the mentorship of architects Jim Caumeron and Kyle Nuestro, the students conceptualized and designed buildings in response to Locsin’s renowned Brutalist approach and principles. Their scale models, along with dialogues, demonstrate how Locsin’s legacy informs the next generation of artists.
The Poet of Concrete: The Architecture of National Artist Leandro Locsin is curated by CCA director architect Gerry Torres. For more information, visit facebook.com/BenildeCampusArt.
Leandro Locsin in front of the LVLocsin building, Ayala Avenue, 1979. PHOTO FROM LEANDRO V LOCSIN PARTNERS
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