National Artist for Visual Arts (2018)
(18 August 1926-24 June 2002)
Recognized as the dean of Philippine cartoonists, Larry Alcala founded the Samahang Kartunista ng Pilipinas and which he served as president in 1979. He is famous for his prolific comic strips with relatable characters conversing in the Taglish language, making the comics more accessible to the wider public. He brings wit and humor to his Slice of Life series, showing the Filipino in various settings, while at the same time adding himself to the mix (some readers find themselves looking for the artist as a game). The Slice of Life showcases Alcala’s understanding of the human nature by setting the stage for his characters moving about in his selected space, giving no text yet providing the narrative through the lens of each person featured in the illustration. Alcala proves that all you need is a healthy dose of laughter to get on with your day.