June 2012 marks the end of Jose Rizal’s year-long birthday celebration. Last year, the entire nation has been paying tribute to the greatest advocate of nationalism and reform this country has ever-known, Jose Rizal. Every Filipino has followed the legacy of this Renaissance man over the last 150 years. Deeply ingrained into our collective memories, we recall the dramatic scene of how he turned to face his executioners after being shot by firing squad. We remember how he led resistance against Spanish colonizers, igniting the hearts of Filipinos everywhere with the bravery of a pen rather than a sword. Familiar tales of his childhood, his formative years as a student in Europe where he honed his nationalistic spirit and his personal relations with his family and lovers have been taught in to young minds all over the country. As nationalist, scientist, doctor, linguist, scholar, writer and artist, Rizal is put on a pedestal for his exceptional talents, his principles and the sophisticated path that he chose in spite of ominous circumstances.

This May, a month before it officially ends, Manila Contemporary attempts to reconstruct this tower by introducing our national hero on more relevant and relatable grounds, as a human being. Without discrediting his achievements, this exhibition intends to create a more rounded perspective of Rizal. Digging through layers upon layers of myth, artists are challenged to depict his nakedness as man. Taking into consideration his insecurities, fears and inclinations, we dive into the raw complexity of his person. To have overcome and used these aspects of his humanity for the greater good, only further intensifies the significant prominence that he has attained.

CANVAS (Center for Art, New Ventures & Sustainable Development) will be holding an exhibition of Rizalpabeto, a collaborative project between artist Elmer Borlongan and poet Vim Nadera in the upstairs gallery.