While it is one thing to appreciate art in museums or architecture on site, those who want to know more about the maestros or the stories behind great masterpieces can check out these tomes masterfully penned by local authors. 

The Life and Times of Purita Kalaw-Ledesma  

The Life and Times of Purita Kalaw-Ledesma, edited by Purissima Benitez-Johannot

A comprehensive look at the life of the Mother of Contemporary Philippine Art, this book also chronicles the evolution of local art and how Filipino artists strove for relevance throughout the 20th century.

Amorsolo: Love and Passion

Amorsolo: Love and Passion, edited by Krip Yuson

This two-volume tome – Book I features portraits by Amorsolo and Book II his famous landscapes – offers a fascinating look into the life and work of the master of chiaroscuro. Also features personal insights from the artist’s daughter Sylvia Amorsolo-Lazo.

Kayamanan

Kayamanan: 77 Paintings from the Central Bank Collection, by Emmanuel Torres

Its content spanning from the Spanish Colonial period to the post-World War II art scene, Torres’ now-classic book is a must-read for art history buffs.

Art After War

Art After War: 1948-1969, by Patrick Flores

Renowned historian Patrick Flores paints a scholarly yet poignant picture of how Philippine artists transcended the widespread destruction of the Second World War to express their creativity and to put the nation on the map with regard to modern art.

Likha

Likha: Enduring Legacies of Filipino Artistry, edited by Ramon N Villegas

A magnificent collection of objets d’art takes centre stage in this book. Villegas, who sadly passed away earlier this year, brought together a great team of authors to write about different eras in Philippine art and history.