In the Shadow of Great Light, jointly presented by Galerie Stephanie, Fundacion Sansó, and Shangri-La Plaza, pays tribute to the National Artists of the Philippines—visionaries whose brilliance continues to illuminate our cultural and national consciousness. The National Artist Award, first proclaimed in 1972 through Presidential Proclamation No. 1001 and enshrined in Republic Act No. 10066 or the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, is the highest honor the State confers on those whose creative achievements have profoundly shaped Philippine art, history, and identity. To know our National Artists is to understand the enduring radiance of their vision: how their works revealed beauty amid hardship, truth amid silence, and possibility amid uncertainty.
As this exhibition opens on the eve of National Heroes Day, we are reminded that their legacy is not only preserved in canvas, stone, melody, or word, but also in the values and ideals we now hold as a people. Like heroes who defended our freedom, our National Artists lit paths of imagination and meaning, allowing future generations to see further and dream more bravely. Today, we live in the shadow of that great light—shaped, challenged, and inspired by it—affirming that their artistry is not of the past alone, but a living beacon guiding the nation toward its highest self.
This exhibition is made possible by Galerie Stephanie, in partnership with Shangrila Plaza, the Eleuterio “Teyet” Pascual collection, Fundacion Sanso, various private collectors and the families of the national artists represented.
(text by Ricky Francisco)