Ayala Museum

Ayala Museum opened for free one Saturday of July and we did not pass up the chance to experience it. We just had to write down on a piece of paper the answer to the question (sorry I forgot, something like "how can you be an inspiration to others?"), handed it to the girls in charge and we were stamped and allowed to get inside. We were given red stubs too to claim our free cokes-in-can.

by Jana Benitez

More paintings by Jana Benitez

Upon entering, right behind the reception area are the paintings of Jana Benitez. They are 35 new large-scale paintings and although I don't know much about paintings I make them out as beautiful creations. I have favorite among the paintings so I didn't forget to click away so I'd have solid remembrance that I saw them in person.

Dioramas

Second floor houses the dioramas of the history of the Philippines, from prehistoric to our Independence. The dioramas are carved by artisans from Paete, Laguna and I tell you each and every diorama is worth instagramming. They are so carefully thought of and so perfect. If these were presented to me when I was a kid I'd have understood and passed all my history quizzes haha. At the end was a multimedia presentation of the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution. I don't know about you but every time this event is shown I get proud that something as huge as this ever happened to our country. We were so united.

Another diorama: Recognition of Philippine Independence

Fernando Zobel's paintings are exhibited in the museum's 3rd floor gallery. I look at his works and imagine how his hands made each careful stroke. They are simple but really not that simple. I especially love the paintings in black. Too bad taking photos were not allowed but since the collections are part of the museum's permanent display anyone who wishes to see them can visit anytime.

Cagayan Valley Life

Gold objects are seen on the 4th floor. They are exhibition of our ancestors' adornments. We saw earrings, bracelets and bangles, anklets, rings, tiaras, necklaces and much more. Multimedia presentation is also shown and watching the short film makes you understand these gold pieces all the more. The other side showcases centuries-old ceramics. They age beautifully which just tells how each piece were made cautiously to have stood the test of time.

Historical Book

One of the bands that performed that day: Hidden Nikki

We were also given the chance to make use of Filipinas Heritage Library for free. Located at 6th floor of the museum, the library is said to be “dedicated to books and other materials authored by Filipinos or about the Philippines with focus on history and culture.” For students who want to delve deeper into our history and who don’t solely rely on Google, the library has antiquarian books, maps, manuscripts and serials from as early as 16th century. Even in the advent of advanced technology, I still like to hold and own a book. Libraries, one of the things I miss about school.

Source: www.ayalamuseum.org