Anita Magsaysay-Ho

Anita Magsaysay-Ho (May 25, 1914 – May 5, 2012) was a prolific Filipina painter who specialized in Social Realism, Modernism and post-Cubism. Many of her works depicted the role of women in Filipino culture. In 1958, the Manila Chronicle formed a panel of experts who named Magsaysay-Ho as one of the most significant painters to go down in the history of the Philippines. She was soon named one of the “Thirteen Moderns,” a group of Filipino modernist artists. She has the added distinction of being the only woman of the group.

Because of her body of work, the Senate of the Philippines nominated her for the National Artist Award in 2012. Ultimately, the resolution did not pass as she was a Canadian citizen at the time of her death. However, she is still well respected for her contribution to the Arts. Furthermore, the country considers her works to be national treasures.

Home is Where the Art Is

From time to time, our Artisans of Hope receive requests to make one-of-a-kind mosaic pieces. Imagine how honored we felt when Ms. Doris Magsaysay Ho, daughter of the late Anita Magsaysay Ho reached out to us to commission our Artisans of Hope to create one of her late mother’s paintings in mosaic.

Due to the pandemic, the delivery of the artwork suffered some setbacks and delays. However, in April 2023, the painting was brought to its final home. It now graces the entrance lobby of the family building in Ermita, Manila City.

Thank you, Ms. Doris Magsaysay Ho, for granting us the privilege to take on this project of a lifetime!