My Next Big Educational Goal: Exploring the Postcolonial Transformation of Filipino Churches by Kristine

My Next Big Educational Goal: Exploring the Postcolonial Transformation of Filipino Churches by Kristine - August 2024 Scholarship Essay

As an art history student, I have always been fascinated by how cultural and historical shifts shape artistic expression and architectural styles. My next big educational goal is to delve deeply into the effects of colonialism on Filipino churches and explore how these structures evolved during the postcolonial period. This project will not only enhance my academic understanding but also contribute to the broader discourse on colonial and postcolonial art and architecture in the Philippines.

The Spanish colonization of the Philippines left an impactful mark on our cultural and religious landscape. The introduction of Baroque architecture and Christian iconography significantly transformed the visual and structural aesthetics of Filipino churches. My goal is to investigate these changes comprehensively, examining the relationship between indigenous influences and Spanish colonial impositions. By doing so, I hope to uncover the nuances of this architectural changes and highlight the resilience and adaptability of Filipino culture.

To achieve this goal, I plan to undertake a multifaceted approach. First, I will conduct extensive archival research, analyzing historical documents, architectural blueprints, and early photographs of these churches. This will provide a foundational understanding of their original structures and the subsequent modifications they underwent during the colonial period. Additionally, I will engage with contemporary scholar texts on postcolonial theory to contextualize these changes within broader global trends.

Fieldwork will be a crucial component of my research. I intend to visit several historically significant churches across the Philippines, documenting their current state and tracing the remnants of colonial influence. By conducting interviews with local historians, architects, and community members, I aim to gather diverse perspectives on the cultural significance of these churches and their role in shaping Filipino identity.

Furthermore, I aspire to produce a comprehensive comparative analysis of precolonial and postcolonial religious art within these churches. This will involve a detailed examination of iconography, symbolism, and artistic techniques, highlighting the continuity and transformation of religious expression in the Philippines. By juxtaposing precolonial indigenous motifs with colonial and postcolonial Christian iconography, I hope to reveal the dynamic interplay between tradition and adaptation.

This educational goal is not just an academic pursuit for me; it is deeply personal. As a Filipino, understanding the historical forces that have shaped our cultural heritage is vital to my identity. By exploring the postcolonial transformation of Filipino churches, I seek to contribute to a more nuanced appreciation of our architectural and artistic heritage. I believe that this research will also serve as a valuable resource for future scholars, artists, and architects who wish to explore the rich tapestry of Filipino culture.

In conclusion, my next big educational goal is to investigate the postcolonial transformation of Filipino churches. Through archival research, fieldwork, and comparative analysis, I aim to uncover the complexities of our architectural heritage and contribute to the broader discourse on colonial and postcolonial art. This project represents a significant step in my academic journey and a meaningful contribution to the preservation and appreciation of Filipino culture.