Nestled in the heart of bustling Manila, Far Eastern University (FEU) offers more than just academic excellence. Its unique campus is a living, breathing gallery of architectural marvels, where art is not confined to museum walls but embedded in the very structures that surround you. For art lovers, culture enthusiasts, and history buffs, FEU is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.
Glimpse into the past
FEU is home to the largest ensemble of Art Deco buildings in the Philippines, a testament to the architectural vision of National Artist Pablo Antonio Sr. His works dot the campus, standing tall as symbols of grace and sophistication. These buildings, characterized by clean lines, geometric patterns, and elegant curves, have become a significant part of Manila’s cultural fabric, drawing admiration from architects and tourists alike.
Walking through the campus, you feel transported back in time. The symmetrical forms and decorative details of these Art Deco structures evoke a sense of nostalgia while reminding us of the modernist aspirations of a pre-war Philippines. A feat that was awarded in 2005 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Asia-Pacific Heritage Conservation Award with an Honorable Mention. The conservation of the largest ensemble of Art Deco architecture that survives in Manila today presents an admirable and pioneering regional exemplar of a holistic campus-wide approach to university preservation. FEU’s artistic appeal extends far beyond its facades—within its walls lie masterpieces by some of the country’s greatest artists.
Cultural heritage
Among the luminaries who contributed to FEU's artistic legacy is Vicente Manansala, a renowned cubist painter whose works continue to inspire new generations. His artworks can be found within the university, providing a unique intersection of modernist art and academic pursuit.
A family with a Madonna and Child, a man and his rooster behind a grownup child signifying the common man on the Law Cluster
Our Lady of Fatima Mosaic Mural (27 1/2” x 94”) 1971
But the artistry does not stop with Manansala. Sculptor Napoleon Abueva, another National Artist, contributed his expertise to enhance the visual experience of the campus. Together with works by Carlos "Botong" Francisco and Fernando Amorsolo, these pieces elevate the university into more than just a place for education—they create a sanctuary where art, culture, and history intertwine.
In recognition of its contribution to preserving cultural heritage, the National Museum of the Philippines awarded FEU a National Cultural Treasure Award, a distinction that underscores the importance of the university’s commitment to art and architecture.
National treasure
Perhaps the crown jewel of FEU’s art collection is the work of Antonio Dumlao, a National Cultural Treasure awardee. His Stained-Glass Panels located on the third floor of the Administration Building are nothing short of breathtaking. These panels transform light into a symphony of colors, depicting the mythical bird of the Maranao people, the Sarimanok. The panels, composed of crushed bottles of different colors showcases Dumlao’s mastery over his craft.
Sarimanok Stained Glass (61” x 72”) 1975
Just below, on the second floor, is another of Dumlao’s masterpieces: Empowering the Youth Through Education. This mural, painted on canvas, is considered the largest Art Deco mural in the Philippines. Its bold imagery and inspiring message perfectly encapsulate the ethos of the university. Standing in front of this vast work of art, one can feel the power and vision that went into its creation—a reminder of the potential that education holds for empowering the next generation.
Empowering the Youth Through Education Paint on Canvas (97” x 445”) 1949
Living Canvas
Visiting FEU is more than just a walk through of a campus—it’s a journey through history, art, and culture. Each building, each artwork, and each detail tells a story of a nation’s artistic growth, a university’s commitment to preserving its heritage, and the power of architecture to inspire future generations. The Art Deco structures, and the masterpieces housed within their walls stand as a living testament to the fusion of beauty and purpose.
FEU is a living, breathing monument to a unique chapter in the Philippines' artistic and architectural history. For students, faculty, and visitors, the campus serves as a daily reminder of the power of art to shape and define the spaces we inhabit.
For those with a deep appreciation for architecture and art, FEU provides a rare opportunity to explore the intersection of the two. Here, art isn’t just admired from a distance—it’s experienced up close, one building at a time.
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